The 2021 Toyota Highlander learned new tricks to keep us entertained on the road, when we’re not asleep in the back anyway..
Pros Better style New sporty XSE look Still practical… ...and fuel efficient Great standard safety
Cons Infotainment is still a headache Exterior is a little busy Pricey top models Small-ish third row
The sporty-looking XSE trim level joins the Highlander lineup for 2021. It punches up the looks with more aggressive exterior styling, unique 20-inch wheels, black exterior accents, and a sportier calibration for the suspension. Elsewhere, LED projection headlamps are now a standard feature and all models receive additional driver-assistance features, including semi-automated emergency steering technology that's designed to help a driver avoid collisions.
Pros Attractive design, optional hybrid powertrain, generous standard features.
Cons Few driving thrills, skimpy third-row room, fussy interior styling.
The sporty XSE trim debuts in the Hybrid lineup.More advanced safety features are standard.LED headlights are now standard.
Pros High fuel economy for a three-row SUV Sensibly priced compared to the non-hybrid Highlander Comfortable ride quality Plenty of standard and available safety features
Cons Third-row seats are cramped Not a whole lot of cargo space behind the third-row seat Engine sounds unrefined at full throttle
For 2021 Some previously optional features are now standard.Wireless device charging pad is now available.
Pros Impeccable cabin finished with top-quality materials Advanced safety features come standard High fuel economy for a luxury crossover SUV
Cons Third-row space is tight for anyone other than small kids Less overall cargo capacity than competitors Touchpad controller is distracting to use
The 2021 Lexus RX Hybrid's #6 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. Currently the Lexus RX Hybrid has a score of 7.8 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 29 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Silky ride Lengthy features list Opulent cabin
Cons Less nimble than rivals Limited cargo space Finicky Remote Touch infotainment interface Miniscule third row
Is 2021 your year to make the step to a hybrid? The Lexus RX450h Luxury makes it a comfortable and easy journey, albeit a rather unexciting one.
Pros The best looking Lexus (aside from LC500) - modern and stylish inside and out Effortless hybrid drivetrain Plenty of kit Quiet and comfortable in every environment
Cons Thirsty V6 offset by hybrid, but not as much as you'd like CVT dulls the driving experience Getting pretty spendy for a car that starts in the $70k range 1990s rear-view camera needs to go
