Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD. This SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. We’re going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and interior features to its tech and safety aspects. Buckle up; it's going to be a detailed ride!

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD really brings its A-game. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers a solid 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Now, I know what you might be thinking – a four-cylinder in a Highlander? But trust me, Toyota has engineered this engine to provide ample power for daily driving and even some light towing. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which offers smooth and responsive shifts. This combination ensures that you get a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. Speaking of fuel efficiency, the Highlander XLE AWD offers an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Not bad for a vehicle of this size, right?

One of the standout features of the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is, of course, its All-Wheel Drive system. This system provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Whether you're dealing with snow, rain, or just some gravel roads, the AWD system gives you that extra confidence behind the wheel. The system can automatically distribute torque between the front and rear wheels, depending on the driving conditions. This means you don't have to worry about manually engaging or disengaging the AWD – it's all done seamlessly in the background. In terms of handling, the Highlander offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth experience for both the driver and passengers. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD are well-rounded, making it a great choice for families and individuals alike.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Let's step inside the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD and explore its interior. Toyota has really upped the ante with the design and features, making it a comfortable and tech-savvy space. First off, the seats are incredibly comfortable, especially on long drives. The XLE trim typically comes with SofTex-trimmed seats, which offer a premium feel without the high maintenance of leather. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The second-row seats are also spacious and comfortable, with plenty of legroom and headroom for adults. And if you need to haul cargo, the second-row seats can be easily folded down to create a larger cargo area.

In terms of technology, the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is packed with features that enhance your driving experience. The infotainment system is centered around an 8-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to use and responsive. It comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car. You can access your favorite apps, make calls, and send texts directly from the touchscreen. The Highlander also comes with a six-speaker audio system, which delivers clear and crisp sound. For those who want even better audio quality, there's an optional JBL sound system available. Other notable tech features include a wireless charging pad, which allows you to charge your smartphone without any cables, and multiple USB ports throughout the cabin, so everyone can keep their devices charged. The Highlander also comes with Toyota's Safety Connect services, which include automatic collision notification, emergency assistance, and stolen vehicle locator. These features provide added peace of mind in case of an emergency.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. One of the standout features is Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), which includes a range of advanced driver-assistance systems. These systems are designed to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. TSS 2.5+ includes features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, which can detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists and provide a warning or automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent. It also includes Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, which can help you stay in your lane by providing a warning or gently steering you back into the lane if you start to drift. Another useful feature is Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. It also includes Road Sign Assist, which can recognize and display speed limit signs and other important road signs on the instrument panel. In addition to these advanced systems, the Highlander also comes with standard safety features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full suite of airbags.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD also excels in crash tests. It has received excellent ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings demonstrate Toyota's commitment to safety and provide further reassurance that the Highlander is a safe and reliable vehicle. With its combination of advanced safety features and excellent crash test ratings, the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is a great choice for families who prioritize safety.

Exterior Design

Alright, let's talk about the looks of the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD. Toyota has done a great job of giving it a modern and stylish design that's sure to turn heads. The front fascia features a bold grille and sleek headlights, giving it a confident and aggressive appearance. The XLE trim comes with LED headlights and fog lights, which not only look great but also provide excellent visibility at night. The side profile is clean and sculpted, with smooth lines and a slightly sloping roofline. The Highlander also comes with stylish alloy wheels, which add to its overall appeal. At the rear, you'll find LED taillights and a subtle spoiler, which give it a sporty touch. The XLE trim also comes with a power liftgate, which makes it easy to load and unload cargo. You can open and close the liftgate with the touch of a button, which is especially useful when your hands are full.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is available in a variety of colors, so you can choose one that suits your personal style. Whether you prefer a classic color like black or white, or something more bold like red or blue, there's a Highlander color for everyone. Overall, the exterior design of the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is modern, stylish, and well-executed. It's a vehicle that looks good both on the road and in the driveway.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is always a hot topic, especially with rising gas prices. The 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD offers respectable fuel economy for a vehicle of its size. As mentioned earlier, it gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These numbers are pretty competitive for the mid-size SUV class. Of course, your actual fuel economy will vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. If you do a lot of city driving or have a heavy foot, you can expect to get lower numbers. On the other hand, if you do mostly highway driving and drive conservatively, you may be able to exceed the EPA estimates. To maximize your fuel economy, it's important to keep your tires properly inflated, avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, and keep up with regular maintenance. The Highlander also comes with an Eco mode, which can help improve fuel economy by adjusting the engine and transmission settings.

Compared to its competitors, the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD holds its own in terms of fuel economy. Some competitors may offer slightly better numbers, but the Highlander's overall performance and reliability make it a strong contender. Plus, with Toyota's reputation for building long-lasting vehicles, you can expect the Highlander to hold its value over time, which can offset any differences in fuel costs. So, if you're looking for a mid-size SUV that offers a good balance of fuel economy and performance, the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is definitely worth considering.

Conclusion

So, what’s the final verdict on the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD? Overall, it's a fantastic SUV that offers a great combination of performance, comfort, technology, and safety. It's perfect for families who need a spacious and reliable vehicle that can handle daily commutes, road trips, and everything in between. The XLE trim offers a lot of value for the money, with a long list of standard features and available options. While it may not be the flashiest or most luxurious SUV on the market, it's a practical and well-rounded choice that's sure to satisfy most buyers.

If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, I highly recommend checking out the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD. It's a vehicle that's built to last, with a proven track record of reliability and customer satisfaction. Plus, with Toyota's extensive dealer network, you'll have no problem finding a local dealer who can help you with your purchase. Just be sure to do your research, compare it to other vehicles in its class, and take it for a test drive to see if it's the right fit for you. Happy driving, guys!