2021 Toyota Highlander: A Comprehensive Guide to the Spacious, Reliable, and Family-Friendly SUV

The 2021 Toyota Highlander continues to uphold Toyota’s reputation for creating durable, practical, and family-oriented SUVs. Known for its versatile three-row seating, advanced safety features, and reliable performance, the 2021 Highlander is a midsize SUV that appeals to families, commuters, and road-trip enthusiasts alike. With updated features, a wide range of trims, and the availability of a hybrid model, the Highlander combines modern technology with Toyota’s commitment to quality.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything that makes the 2021 Toyota Highlander a top choice in the midsize SUV segment. From its performance and safety to interior comfort, technology, and fuel efficiency, this guide provides everything you need to know about the 2021 Highlander to make an informed decision.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander is a three-row midsize SUV designed to offer a balance of comfort, performance, and practicality. Available in six main trims—L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum—the Highlander offers options for a variety of needs and budgets. Toyota also offers a hybrid version of the Highlander, adding an eco-friendly choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency.
With seating for up to eight passengers, a spacious interior, and a suite of standard safety features known as Toyota Safety Sense, the Highlander is an ideal choice for families and those needing extra space. The 2021 model brings forward Toyota’s legacy of reliability while incorporating modern features and a more refined interior, making it both a capable family vehicle and a comfortable daily driver.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander comes in six trims, each offering a unique blend of features and options:

• L: The base model, equipped with essential features, providing solid value and Toyota’s standard safety suite.
• LE: Adds more convenience features and styling elements, making it a popular choice for families seeking a few extra amenities. 
• XLE: Upgrades to a more premium interior with additional tech and comfort features, ideal for those wanting a bit more luxury.
• XSE: The sportiest trim in the lineup, featuring unique styling, a sport-tuned suspension, and other performance-focused features.
• Limited: Adds luxury touches, including leather seating, upgraded audio, and advanced technology.
• Platinum: The top-tier trim with all the features of the Limited, plus additional safety and comfort enhancements like a panoramic sunroof and a head-up display.

Each trim is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, enhancing the Highlander’s versatility in various driving conditions.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander offers two main powertrain options: a V6 engine for the standard model and a hybrid option for enhanced fuel efficiency.

3.5L V6 Engine
The 3.5-liter V6 engine is standard across all non-hybrid trims, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, this engine provides smooth acceleration, a refined driving experience, and ample power for highway driving and light towing.

Hybrid Powertrain
For those seeking better fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors, generating 243 horsepower. The hybrid system is mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) for optimized efficiency. The hybrid model is available in FWD or AWD configurations, making it a versatile choice for eco-conscious drivers.

Towing Capacity
The V6-powered Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for light trailers, small boats, or recreational equipment. The hybrid model has a slightly lower towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, which still accommodates many light towing needs.

Fuel efficiency is one of the standout features of the 2021 Toyota Highlander, especially for those opting for the hybrid version.

• 3.5L V6 Engine (FWD): EPA-rated at 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive model.
• 3.5L V6 Engine (AWD): Slightly lower fuel economy at 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway.
• Hybrid Powertrain (FWD): Achieves an impressive 36 mpg city / 35 mpg highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient three-row SUVs on the market.
• Hybrid Powertrain (AWD): Offers 35 mpg city / 34 mpg highway, which is still excellent for its class.

With these ratings, the Highlander Hybrid stands out as a fuel-efficient option for families and daily commuters alike.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander offers a spacious and comfortable interior, designed with families in mind. The cabin is well-crafted with high-quality materials, making it both functional and luxurious.

Seating and Space
The Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat, or seven passengers with the optional second-row captain’s chairs. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with available leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and power-adjustable options to enhance passenger comfort.
The third-row seating is more suitable for children or shorter adults, but the Highlander offers generous legroom in the first and second rows. The cabin’s spacious layout makes it ideal for families or anyone needing extra room for passengers.

Cargo Capacity
The Highlander provides 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and a maximum of 84.3 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. This cargo space is competitive within the midsize SUV category, offering ample room for groceries, sports equipment, or luggage.

Interior Features

• Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Standard across all trims, allowing individual climate settings for the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers.
• Second-Row Sunshades: Available on higher trims, offering added comfort for rear passengers.
• Panoramic Moonroof: Standard on the Platinum trim, providing a spacious feel and natural lighting for the cabin.
• Power-Folding Third Row: Available on the top trim, allowing for more convenient cargo space adjustments.

The Highlander’s interior design balances comfort and functionality, making it an excellent choice for long trips and daily commutes alike.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander is packed with advanced technology and infotainment features, keeping drivers and passengers connected and entertained on the go.

Toyota Audio Multimedia System
Toyota’s multimedia system is standard on all trims, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and an available 12.3-inch touchscreen on higher trims. The system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, making it easy to access navigation, music, and hands-free calls.

Connectivity Features

• USB Ports: Multiple USB ports throughout the cabin allow passengers to charge their devices on the go.
• Bluetooth® Connectivity: Standard across all trims, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming.
• Wi-Fi Hotspot: Available on higher trims, providing internet connectivity for up to five devices.
• JBL® Premium Audio System: Standard on the Limited and Platinum trims, this system includes 11 speakers for a rich audio experience.

Additional Features
Higher trims add more premium technology options, such as a head-up display on the Platinum trim, which projects key information onto the windshield, and wireless smartphone charging on the Limited and Platinum trims.
The Highlander’s technology is designed to enhance convenience and connectivity, making it easy for drivers and passengers to stay connected while on the road.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of advanced safety features that provides peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ Features
The following features are included as part of Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, making the Highlander one of the safest choices in its segment:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Warns drivers of potential collisions and can apply the brakes automatically if necessary.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally leaves its lane and provides gentle steering assistance.
• Lane Tracing Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered within its lane on highways.
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Adjusts speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car ahead.
• Automatic High Beams: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on traffic conditions.

Additional Safety Features
Higher trims offer additional safety features, such as:

• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns of vehicles in the driver’s blind spots and approaching traffic when reversing.
• Parking Assist with Automatic Braking: Helps avoid obstacles when parking, applying the brakes if necessary.
• Surround-View Camera System: Provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering easier.

With these comprehensive safety features, the 2021 Highlander is a secure choice for families and individuals alike.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander competes with several popular midsize SUVs, each with unique strengths. Key competitors include the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Kia Telluride.

Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot offers a similarly spacious interior and strong reputation for reliability. However, the Highlander offers better fuel efficiency, especially in the hybrid model, making it a top choice for eco-conscious buyers.

Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer provides a range of powerful engine options, including a hybrid model. However, the Highlander’s interior is more refined, and its standard safety suite is more comprehensive giving it an edge in safety.

Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride is known for its stylish design and well-equipped interior. While the Telluride offers excellent value, the Highlander provides superior fuel efficiency and Toyota’s legendary reputation for reliability.
Each competitor has unique strengths, but the Highlander’s spacious interior, hybrid option, and comprehensive safety features make it a standout choice in the midsize SUV category.

Pros

• Fuel-Efficient Hybrid Option: The Highlander Hybrid offers one of the best fuel economy ratings in its class.
• Comprehensive Standard Safety Suite: Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ provides advanced safety features as standard.
• Versatile Interior: With flexible seating configurations and ample cargo space, the Highlander is ideal for families.
• Smooth and Comfortable Ride: The Highlander’s suspension is tuned for comfort, making it suitable for long journeys.
• Good Towing Capacity: With up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, the Highlander is capable of light towing.

Cons

• Limited Third-Row Space: The third row may feel cramped for adults, making it best suited for children.
• Higher Trim Costs: While well-equipped, the Limited and Platinum trims come at a premium.
• No Sporty Engine Option: The Highlander focuses on comfort and fuel efficiency rather than sporty performance.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice for families and individuals who prioritize comfort, safety, and fuel efficiency in a midsize SUV. It’s especially well-suited for those who need a reliable family vehicle with ample interior space and advanced safety features. The Highlander Hybrid provides a fuel-efficient option for eco-conscious drivers, while the range of trims allows buyers to select the level of luxury and convenience that best fits their needs.
With its impressive safety suite, spacious cabin, and Toyota’s reputation for quality, the 2021 Highlander is a versatile SUV that meets the demands of modern families.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander is a well-rounded, spacious, and reliable SUV that excels in the midsize SUV segment. Whether you’re commuting, embarking on a road trip, or simply running daily errands, the Highlander provides a smooth ride, advanced safety, and flexible interior space to make every journey comfortable and convenient. With its hybrid option, extensive standard features, and family-friendly design, the 2021 Highlander is a top choice for anyone seeking a dependable, fuel-efficient, and high-quality SUV.

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