New for 2021 is the $41,405 Toyota Highlander XSE model. Improvements include a sport-tuned suspension, ambient interior lighting, front and rear parking sensors, and sporty external and interior style.
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What distinguishes the 2021 Toyota Highlander XLE from the Xse?
The Toyota Highlander is recognized for being a dependable, attractive three-row SUV, but athletic is not one of the adjectives used to describe it. The Highlander XSE, which is brand-new for 2021, trades in its graceful lines for a more dynamic look. The XSE sets itself apart from the rest of the Highlander series with a distinctive grille, fascia, lower spoiler, wheels, and blacked accents like the mirror caps and faux air vents. However, the XSE is more than just a badge and a cosmetic package. To provide a more connected driving experience, Toyota engineers made adjustments within the vehicle. Increased steering feel is one of these trade-offs, along with stronger spring rates, a thicker anti-roll bar, and retuned shock absorbers.
We evaluated a 2021 Highlander XSE earlier this year, but we couldn’t discern any significant differences between the standard three-row SUV and the upgraded trim. Toyota agreed to loan us the most popular Highlander trim, the XLE, and the XSE back so we could compare them side by side in order to have a better understanding.
How Sporty is Sporty?
Sporty is typically associated with more power and dynamic handling, although that is not the case in this instance. No of the grade, a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque and an eight-speed transmission power all Highlanders. Our XSE and XLE models both had an available all-wheel drive system that could channel up to 50% of the torque to the back wheels. In addition to the suspension and steering adjustments, the XSE has 20-inch wheels and stickier tires.
The difference that we hadn’t noticed earlier in the year was revealed when driving the Highlanders back-to-back. The steering on the XSE seemed slightly heavier than the XLE’s, but it wasn’t quite sporty. The XLE seemed to always be in comfort mode, whereas the XSE felt more attentive after switching to sport mode. In comparison to the XLE, the response was a little bit crisper, better balanced, and offered a little bit more feedback. Even yet, there wasn’t a drastic improvement because the XSE’s steering is still set more toward comfort.
The situation with the ride is the same. The Highlander XSE’s body felt a little bit more controlled than the XLE’s on our test loop, which weaves over twisty roads, patches of cracked pavement, and highway sections. On the uneven surface, the XSE’s suspension seemed to be calibrated to perform in a one-and-done manner rather than attempting to reduce cabin vibrations in a more comfortable manner, as we experienced with the XLE. When compared to the XLE’s Michelin Premier LTX tires, the XSE’s Goodyear Eagle Touring tires gave it a sharper, more controlled, and slightly grippier feel. The larger wheels on the XSE had little effect on ride quality.
In our acceleration and handling tests at our track in Fontana, California, the two appeared to be fairly similar. The XLE was 0.1 second faster in the quarter mile in the 0-60 mph run, but on our braking test, the XSE’s tires really stood out, stopping in 116 feet as opposed to 122 feet for the XLE. After driving them back-to-back, associate road test editor Erick Ayapana observed, “Similar feel to the XLE: Lots of front dive, softly sprung front suspension.”
The situation was only slightly different on the skid pad, where road test editor Chris Walton was able to reduce the time in the XSE by 0.2 seconds for a time of 26.5 seconds at 0.65 g. “There is a lot of body roll in the turns, and the steering feels heavy for the purpose of being heavy. I had to manually downshift because the transmission wasn’t particularly intelligent on the skid pad “Walton stated on the XLE. His impressions were nearly the same in the XSE, highlighting less pronounced versions of the XLE’s flaws. “Although not as severe, there is still quite a bit of dip and roll. It was simpler to constantly apply the brakes in the same location because of the transmission’s regular behavior and probably the sportier tires “Added he.
So, how athletic is athletic? The Highlander XSE isn’t particularly lively or sporty. However, this is how the standard Highlander should be, as Walton noted after driving the XSE on the skid pad. When driving hard, the heavier steering and stronger springs assist it maintain body control while maintaining the level of comfort for which the three-row Toyota is renowned.
Are the Interiors Different?
The cabins differ somewhat from the outside in a similar way. The red leatherette in the XSE, which you may select at no extra cost, is the largest change. (As an aside, the third row has black seats; the first and second rows are covered in red leatherette.) Black leatherette seats, which are also standard and how our vehicle was outfitted, are available if you would rather have something more conventional. The dashboard is covered in faux carbon fiber detailing. The Harvest Beige interior of the XLE, on the other hand, trades the red leatherette for a premium appearance and combines beige and brown materials. The XLE receives a bright gray plastic in place of the phony carbon fiber.
The design of the Multi-Terrain selector, which is operated by a knob in the XSE instead of buttons like in the XLE, is the other small internal variation. The sole difference between the two SUVs’ three modesMud & Sand, Normal, and Rock & Dirtis how you choose between them.
If you choose the XLE, you can have a free interior with either seven or eight seats; the XSE only has seven seats.
The rest of the items are all the same. Both SUVs have an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, five USB ports (three in the front row, two in the second row), and other standard features. Navigation and a JBL premium audio system are options for the XSE that cost $1,680, while navigation and a premium audio option (without JBL speakers) are available for the XLE for $1,040. We heard no significant differences between the two systems, which both sounded terrific.
Both Highlanders have the same amount of interior room, although adults may find the third row to be too small. Toyota has trademarked the phrase “Grand Highlander,” which suggests that a larger three-row SUV with increased internal room may be on the horizon.
Which Highlander Should I Buy?
The XSE starts at $42,680 whereas the XLE costs $41,085 because it is positioned between the XLE and Limited grades. Both models cost $1,950 more with all-wheel drive. Our XLE, which solely included the navigation and audio package, was $43,625 when it was checked out. Our XSE’s price rose to $47,451 when the JBL package and additional extras like the cargo cross bars on the roof, all-weather floor mats, and illuminated door sills were added.
Everything ultimately boils down to aesthetics and utility. The XSE surely evokes more emotion if you find the Highlander’s design uninteresting. The XLE is a good choice, nevertheless, if your budget is more limited. The stronger suspension and steering settings probably won’t influence your choice because, when either Highlander isn’t driven hardsomething most owners will avoidthe driving experience is essentially the same in both.
Given that we prefer the XSE’s handling on the road and its stickier tires, if it were our money, we’d probably choose it. We’d like the XLE’s exterior styling, but if we were buying the XSE, we’d choose for the red leatherette seats. Although we are happy that Toyota is providing customers more options to choose from, we cannot have the best of all worlds in this situation.
What should the price of a 2021 Toyota Highlander be?
Toyota Highlander Price in 2021 The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the base 2021 Toyota Highlander L is $34,810. A $1,175 destination fee raises the total to $35,985. Despite the Highlander L’s extensive list of standard features, we still advise spending an additional $2,200 for the LE trim.
Are Highlander Xse vehicles good?
After thoroughly evaluating the vehicle, our team of expert reviewers has determined this score.
The Toyota Highlander, now in its fourth generation, is the brand’s best three-row SUV up to this point, barring the fact that there isn’t a better one. Since the same packaging is only available in gas-powered form here, unlike the smaller RAV4, which saves the stylish XSE trim and its sport-tuned suspension for the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. That means the Highlander with the best handling also has a thirsty, unresponsive V6.
Without its own gas-electric powertrain, the 2021 Toyota Highlander XSE falls short of being one of the greatest all-around three-row SUVs this size on the market.
Which Highlander, XLE or XSE, is superior?
The XSE model, which is brand-new to the lineup for 2021, sits immediately in front of the XLE and features sporty interior and external enhancements like SofTex-trimmed/leather-trimmed front- and second-row seats, an aggressive mesh front grille, a styled front bumper, and a lower spoiler.
What distinguishes the Highlander Xse from the Limited?
Customers that require three rows of seating frequently choose the Toyota Highlander. The Highlander is a Toyota, which is noted for its dependability and safety. The Highlander is one of the nicest SUVs available, excluding the expensive premium variants. The inside is well-appointed, the seats are comfy, and the engine is capable of handling any situation.
The 2021 Highlander is available in a variety of trim levels, some of which are hybrids. Customers will have to decide which trim is best for them, which might be difficult given the variety of options. Potential clients will learn more from this summary so they may make informed decisions.
Compare the 2021 Toyota Highlander L vs LE Trim Levels. What is the Difference?
Out of the range of 2021 Toyota Highlanders that are now available, these two trims are the most cheap. Both of them have 3.5-liter V6 engines. Due to their ability to produce more than 260 pound-feet of torque and approximately 300 horsepower, these engines are highly powerful. With a 5,000-pound towing capability, folks can undoubtedly go on enjoyable trips with their grown-up toys like motorcycles or boats.
The Highlander saves energy thanks to its Stop and Start Engine System. The combined fuel efficiency of front-wheel cars is 24 miles per gallon, while that of all-wheel variants is just under that figure. Both of these grades come with an additional charge for all-wheel drive, although it does have a significant benefit. Depending on the circumstance, all-wheel drive may be quite beneficial because it offers more traction and enables the SUV to better adjust to challenging driving conditions.
The L and LE appear similar from the exterior. Both of them have side mirrors that are color-keyed and have turn signals. The LED taillights are bright and simple for other drivers to see, and the LED projector headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights perform a terrific job. However, only the LE has LED fog lights, and its side mirrors have built-in blind spot indicators. The Highlander rides on 18-inch wheels, giving it a robust, athletic appearance.
Even the cheapest model has a lot of appealing interior elements. Three-zone climate control, many cup and bottle storage located throughout the interior, an overhead console that is exactly the ideal size to keep sunglasses, and five USB connections are all standard on the Highlander. Fabric upholstery is the default for seats. Both the L and LE have an eight-person capacity, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and second- and third-row benches with three seats each.
The eight-inch touchscreen in the L trim is user-friendly and contains lettering that is easy to see. Along with SiriusXM Radio and Amazon Alexa, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are included as standard features. The majority of modern consumers, who are accustomed to having rapid access to a wide variety of information, will undoubtedly be satisfied with this level of capabilities. The Safety Connect and Remote Connect systems have been added to the LE. With these systems, drivers may remotely start their cars, check the level of their gasoline, lock or unlock doors, and more using their smartphones.
Toyota has equipped the Highlander with cutting-edge safety features for the benefit of all parties. Every Highlander comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which consists vehicle technology that can detect issues, alert drivers, and perhaps take corrective action to lower the likelihood of accidents. For instance, the SUV can detect when it is about to collide with a vehicle in front of it and can send out a warning and apply the brakes as necessary.
Looking over the Highlander trims, there are often very little changes in terms of safety. In addition to Downhill Assist Control, which helps keep the Highlander from speeding up too rapidly on steep slopes, all-wheel drive models offer more possible drive modes.
Compare the 2021 Toyota Highlander LE vs Hybrid LE Trims. What is the Difference?
The hybrid LE has the same front-wheel or all-wheel drive options as the LE. The obvious distinction between the two trims is that the Hybrid LE is propelled by both an electric motor and a 2.5-liter engine. It has 243 horsepower overall. Although this is a respectable quantity, the non-hybrid Highlander has far more power. The Hybrid LE is capable of towing 3,500 pounds. This is considerably less than the LE’s towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
The Hybrid LE has the advantage of earning up to 36 miles per gallon, which is a benefit. This is a crucial element that will help this model become very popular with clients.
In order to fit the hybrid components, certain automobiles on the market have hybrid variants that are set up differently from non-hybrid ones. They might therefore have less room for passengers or freight. Thankfully, the Hybrid LE doesn’t operate in this manner. When all of the back seats are lowered, it offers a maximum cargo volume of 84.3 cubic feet, much like the LE. The front row has 42 inches of legroom, the second row has 41 inches, and the third row has roughly 28 inches.
Compare the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE vs XLE Trim Levels. What is the Difference?
If someone wants more luxury features but must go with a mid-level trim because of cost, upgrading from the LE to the XLE is a wise move. The wheels of the XLE are the same size as those on the LE, but they are machine-finished rather than painted. A motorized moonroof with sliding and tilting capabilities is also included. The moonroof comes with a sunshade to keep out the heat in the summer and is easy to open and close with just one button press. Additionally, the XLE comes with roof rails as standard.
There are a few minor improvements inside the cabin that some purchasers could find significant. The XLE sports chrome door handles as opposed to the LE’s black ones. Upholstery made with SofTex improves seating. The front seats are heated, the driver’s seat has ten instead of eight ways to modify, and the front passenger benefits with a power-adjustable seat.
Two captain’s chairs are often positioned in the center row of the XLE. Although this reduces the number of available seats from eight to seven, some passengers prefer it since it makes the cabin feel more open. In the middle row of the XLE, there is the possibility to add a bench if a specific customer feels the need for that extra seat.
In comparison to the LE, the XLE boasts a few more high-tech features, starting with wireless charging. Even its rearview mirror has a cutting-edge feature, allowing for HomeLink transceiver connection to a garage door or security system. The infotainment system in the XLE may be upgraded to include navigation even though it comes standard with the same features as the LE’s.
Compare the 2021 Toyota Highlander XLE vs Hybrid XLE. What is the Difference?
What’s inside the hood is the only distinction between the XLE and the Hybrid XLE. Since the distinctions are already covered in detail in a previous section, there is really no need to go into further detail here.
The Limited and Platinum trims also come in hybrid variants. To avoid duplicating information, comparisons between the Limited and the Hybrid Limited and the Platinum and the Hybrid Platinum will be omitted.
Compare the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE vs XSE Trims. What is the Difference?
New for 2021 is the XSE. It’s a sportier Highlander model designed for drivers who enjoy pushing their cars to the limit. The only trim with a sport-tuned suspension that improves handling is the XSE.
There are black accents around the LED headlights to match the XSE’s more aggressive appearance. This version sports distinctive front grille, lower spoiler, and side rocker panel chrome trim, as well as 20-inch wheels. With a high-gloss film, the XSE’s A-pillar shines out, and its twin-tip exhaust and black roof rails add to the overall design.
Although leather seats are an option, Toyota provided SofTex seats for the XSE. Similar to the XLE, the XSE has seven seats as standard. The XSE does not, however, offer the option of a bench seat in the second row. Ambient interior lighting and simulated wood interior accents are two things the XSE has that the XLE does not.
Compare the 2021 Toyota Highlander XSE vs Limited Trim. What is the Difference?
There are some improvements to the quality at the Limited level. Think about the side mirrors, for instance. The ones on the Limited can tilt-down when the SUV is in reverse, offering the driver a close-up view of how they are doing with steering. They also have puddle lights that display the Highlander emblem. High-output LED fog lights are available, and the Limited’s Daytime Running Lights, which have a strip of LEDs, are very stylish.
The XSE and Limited both have 20-inch wheels, however the Limited’s wheels are chrome. This harmonizes with the lower, dark gray metallic rear bumper. The Limited also has a hands-free hydraulic liftgate in the back. Although the Limited has a motorized liftgate, it lacks the sensor that makes it hands-free.
The improvements inside the cabin are clear to see. The Limited comes equipped with heated and ventilated front seats in addition to leather upholstery. Another trim, the Limited, offers a second-row bench seat as an option and includes captain’s chairs in the middle row as standard equipment. To keep people’s hands warm during the winter, a heating element has been incorporated into the steering wheel.
The infotainment system in the Limited has seen a substantial improvement. In contrast to the XSE, the Limited comes standard with navigation. 11 JBL speakers are also fitted on the Limited to enhance the sound. The Limited has a great function called “Driver Easy Speak.” The passengers can more readily hear the driver thanks to this system, which can pick up and send the driver’s speech through the rear speakers.