Toyota revamped the Highlander for the 2020 model year, although there are a few small tweaks for the 2021 model. The new XSE trim level for the 2021 Toyota Highlander is just as functional and potent as the other trims. You could say that the Toyota Highlander’s XSE model is its sportier variant. To boost visibility, Toyota replaced the LED headlights on the exterior of the vehicle with projector-style lighting.
Given the high level of dependability of Toyota automobiles, Toyota updated the Highlander’s safety features. The Highlander had Toyota Safety SenseTM 2.0 for 2020, but Toyota Safety SenseTM 2.5 Plus is available for the Highlander in 2021. (TSS 2.5 Plus). Two additional driver assistance capabilities are included with the TSS 2.5 Plus, including improved automatic emergency braking and enhanced cyclist and pedestrian detection.
In This Article...
What distinguishes the hybrid Highlander models from 2021 to 2022?
The Highlander Hybrid receives a new Bronze Edition with unique wheels and interior decorations (in bronze, of course); a new exterior paint color; and the most significant improvements. For XLE and above models, an eight-way motorized passenger seat with a height adjustment
Price: The L, a well-equipped base gas-only model, starts at $36,420 (all prices include $1,215 destination), an increase of $160 for 2022. The LE trim of the Highlander Hybrid has the lowest starting price, which has increased by $160 to $40,070. The majority of other models cost $360 more.
Should you purchase 2021 or 2022? Choose a 2022 model because these are only minimal price increases.
For 2022, the mid-size three-row Toyota Highlander will remain largely unchanged. For the 2020 model year, it had a complete makeover, and the sportier XSE trim level with noticeably more aggressive looks and some mechanical changes arrived in 2021. However, there aren’t many adjustments for 2022.
Has the Highlander Hybrid got any issues?
Having only two models with complaints for an SUV that is almost 20 years old is a pretty good sign of a reliable car.
As a result, searching for a Toyota Highlander on the secondhand market is a terrific idea. It routinely receives favorable ratings for its faultless performance, comfortable ride, high level of dependability, and ample power.
Minor drawbacks like a cramped third-row seating arrangement and a greater price are simpler to overlook when the Highlander Hybrid performs so well overall.
Even better, as seen below, you can effectively flip a coin to determine which year to purchase:
- Highlander Hybrid 2020
- Highlander Hybrid from 2009
- Highlander Hybrid from 2007
- Highlander Hybrid from 2013
- Highlander Hybrid 2018
- Highlander Hybrid 2014
- Highlander Hybrid 2019
- Highlander Hybrid 2012
- Highlander Hybrid 2015
- Highlander Hybrid from 2011
- Highlander Hybrid 2017
- Highlander Hybrid 2010
- Highlander Hybrid 2016
2010 would have to be the year we picked as the most problematic from the list above. Even then, there aren’t many complaints that have been filed.
Nevertheless, the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) claims that the service brakes have a history of issues, according to CarComplaints. The ABS not functioning when the brakes are applied is most notable.
CarComplaints claims that some drivers encountered soft brakes when attempting to stop. Making matters worse, the typical cost to fix this problem is close to $4,200.
The 2013 Highlander Hybrid also has a few complaints about the brakes and electronic stabilizer, and the 2017 model has two complaints about engine problems.
It’s important to note that the 2017 Highlander Hybrid’s engine issues happened at incredibly low mileage. When these problems started, the typical distance was about 1455.
It’s also crucial to note that comparatively few drivers have reported these issues. Therefore, it is impossible to say for sure whether or not the typical driver has to be concerned about this.
Consumers have a long history of being satisfied with the performance and dependability of the remaining Highlander Hybrids. It follows that you are likely to have the same experience.
You can always be sure that you got the greatest value possible since CoPilot scans your neighborhood and notifies you if there is a better deal on a comparable vehicle nearby. The best approach to purchase a car is through the CoPilot app.
Is buying a Highlander Hybrid worthwhile?
The Highlander Hybrid is an excellent SUV, yes. Its comfortable ride, spirited motor, and excellent fuel efficiency for a midsize SUV all contribute to its suitability as a daily commuter. Additionally, it has a luxurious cabin with an easy-to-use infotainment system.
Highlander Hybrid: Does it lack power?
Even though it occasionally seems underpowered, it does the job. The brake pedal feels linear and consistent, unlike in other hybrid vehicles. There are few comparisons in terms of fuel economy. The hybrid Highlander offers 3536 mpg in combined city/highway fuel economy, compared to the majority of V-6 Highlander vehicles’ roughly 23 mpg.
The Highlander Hybrid 2022 is it a plug-in?
No. The Highlander Hybrid doesn’t require the driver to charge a battery or plug anything in. There is no requirement to connect to external power because its built-in hybrid battery automatically recharges as you drive. You only need to put gas in the tank to start moving.
What should I expect to pay for an XLE hybrid 2021 Highlander?
Cost of the hybrid Toyota Highlander in 2021 Costs for the FWD XLE, FWD Limited, and FWD Platinum are $41,210, $45,165, and $48,365 respectively. You must pay a $1,175 destination fee to these costs. Add $1600 for the lower two trim levels with AWD. The additional cost for the Limited and Platinum grades is $1950.
Will the Highlander have a redesign in 2023?
With the addition of a new, more powerful, high-efficiency turbocharged engine for 2023, the Highlander gas versions experience a significant and beneficial shift. With balance shafts for incredibly smooth running, the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque.
Is the Highlander being phased out by Toyota?
The choice to reduce the motor size in the upcoming 2023 Toyota Highlander SUV by Toyota will have a significant impact. For the past six years, it has been the best-selling midsize SUV. Toyota will replace the Highlander’s V6 engine in 2023 with a new, four-cylinder turbocharged engine for the first time. The engine change is one of many that Toyota will be implementing in 2023 SUVs. For instance, the new 2023 Toyota Sequoia and 2023 Tundra receive new i-FORCE MAX hybrid engines in place of V8s.
Which vehiclethe Limited or XLEis preferable?
When comparing the Toyota Highlander XLE and Limited trims, it’s obvious that the Limited comes standard with a lot more high-end amenities, but the XLE delivers a lot of its own conveniences for approximately $4,000 less. LED headlights are among the XLE’s standard features.
What are the Toyota Highlander Hybrid’s drawbacks?
1. Limited Legroom in the Third Row
Speaking of the third row, it is likely the biggest shortcoming of the 2021 Toyota Highlander. Of fact, this is a typical problem for the group. However, the lack of leg room in flat seats simply serves to emphasize that only small children would fit back there. The top two rows are best for adults.
2. Limited cargo room
The Highlander has a limited amount of cargo space as well. The load area behind the third row is only 16 cubic feet, which is not much for a third-row SUV. A considerably better-than-average 48.4 cubic feet can be obtained by removing the third row of seats. Unfortunately, this implies that there is not much room for cargo if all seats must be kept upright.
3. You can feel the weight.
Despite its poise under pressure, the Highlander may still feel its weight. In some circumstances, particularly while moving around on crowded city streets, it can feel clumsy. Imagine that you are in control of a boat with wheels.
4. Longer panic stops
It seems like panic stops take too long on this segment. Driving requires a lot of work to be put into braking, so try to timing your stops as efficiently as you can.
How long does the battery on a Toyota Highlander hybrid last?
You’re not the only one who adores The Highlander! The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has been a fan favorite since it was introduced, however a Toyota hybrid’s battery life is typically between 10 and 15 years.
Toyota increased the eight-year guarantee on its hybrid batteries to ten years in 2019. This was done to reassure potential customers and highlight the longest warranty in the business as a selling point.
Your hybrid battery is no longer covered by warranty because you drive a 2010 Highlander. As a result, if it starts to malfunction, you must replace it. Depending on whether you purchase the battery new or used, the average cost to replace a Toyota hybrid’s battery ranges from $2,000 to $5,000.
Shopping around on the Jerry app is a wonderful place to start if you want to save some money for a new battery.
Jerry is a certified insurance broker who can quickly get quotations from more than 50 highly regarded insurers. Jerry can assist you with purchasing new insurance and canceling your old policy if you discover a fantastic deal. Every year, users save $887 on average.
How much time does Highlander Hybrid have left?
With regular maintenance and cautious driving, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid should last at least 200,000 miles and possibly even over 300,000 miles. Your Highlander should provide 20 years of dependable service if you travel 15,000 miles each year before the expense of repairs becomes prohibitive.