2023 Toyota Highlander Review

Toyota's Highlander is one of the most well-known three-row midsize SUVs around. It's a great choice for growing families and offers versatility similar to a minivan but is more enjoyable to drive and easier to maneuver in most cases. The 2023 Highlander is based on the most recent generation Highlander that debuted in 2020 and receives some updates this year.

Most notably, Toyota has dropped the Highlander's previous V6 engine in favor of a new turbocharged four-cylinder. It's down on horsepower compared to its predecessor but makes more torque. The new engine feels more substantial than you'd expect from a smaller four-cylinder engine in a vehicle this large. The new four-cylinder engine also gets slightly higher EPA-estimated fuel economy than the old V6, helping to make this one of more fuel-efficient three-rows on the market.

Inside, the digital information display on the Limited and Platinum trim levels grows from 7 inches to 12.3 inches, matching the size of the central touchscreen on those trims. The 12.3-inch touchscreen is now optional on the midtier XLE and XSE, allowing more price-conscious shoppers to upgrade the infotainment system if they want. Those models also get the hands-free liftgate that used to come standard on more expensive levels. Finally, wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard across the lineup.

Overall, the 2023 Highlander is a likable SUV and is competitive with other top models such as the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride and Volkswagen Atlas. You should also consider the Highlander Hybrid, which is covered in a separate review on Edmunds. Check out our test team's Expert Rating below to learn more about this year's updated Highlander.

The Toyota Highlander is a midsize three-row SUV with seating for up to eight passengers, and for 2023, it's offered in six trim levels: L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited and Platinum. Midgrade trims and above swap the second-row bench for captain's chairs, reducing seating capacity to seven. All models are powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine that produces 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque, and it's mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels. All-wheel drive is available on all trims as an option. There's also a Highlander Hybrid that we review separately on Edmunds.