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 2021 Toyota Highlander comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 2 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.New sporty XSE trim debuts.
Pros Comfortable, quiet ride Easy to see out of Good power and fuel economy from V6 engine
Cons Third row is kids-only Below-average cargo space behind the third-row seat
New Black Line Special Edition package
Pros Impressive off-road capability in a segment largely without it High seating position provides a good view of the road Easy-to-use interior controls
Cons High floor and side-hinged cargo door can make it hard to load cargo Uncomfortable seats Poor fuel economy and acceleration Rough ride on broken pavement
A Black Line Special Edition of the Lexus GX joins the lineup this year and comes with a host of blacked-out exterior trim, unique 18-inch wheels, a black interior headliner, and black faux-leather upholstery. The GX receives several new standard features for 2022, including a new, larger 10.3-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also newly standard this year is a parking assistant feature, in-dash navigation, and power-folding heated exterior mirrors. Lexus's desirable Nori Green paint color is now available as an option on the GX for the first time.
Pros Able to tackle off-road trails, plenty of standard driver-assistance features, surprisingly hushed cabin.
Cons Uncomfortable rear seats, lacks cargo space with third row in use, dated design.
