The 2021 Toyota Highlander improves yet again on what has become known as a very reasonably priced yet comfortable, spacious, and reliable car. Even if you are familiar with past models of the Highlander, there are a few key improvements this year that you should note. Alternately, if you know very little and are in need of a basic guide, this is also an excellent starting place.
The Highlander is a mid-size crossover SUV developed by Toyota. Though Toyota is a Japanese company, they have longstanding engineering and manufacturing facilities all over the United States. The company likes to emphasize giving back to the communities they serve by partnering with local charities, nonprofits, art centers, and more. Some of their partnerships here in Ohio include the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and the Cincinnati Institute of Fine Arts.
The Highlander model made its debut in both Japan and the United States in 2000 and has maintained popularity ever since. In 2004, Toyota updated the line to include a hybrid model, with great success. Both the hybrid and the standard models have three rows and unibody construction.
The Highlander starts at $34,910 and can run up to a little over $50,000 if you purchase the premium trim, plus a full range of extras. Extras could include an all-wheel drive, certain special body colors, floor liners, and exterior protection accessories.
The Highlander was fully redesigned in 2020 to include a new V6 engine and deluxe touchscreen infotainment center, so you wouldn’t necessarily expect dramatic improvements for the 2021 year. However, Toyota has actually come out with a whole new trim, the XSE model. It boasts a sporty look and feel, decidedly unique compared to the other trim styles. The other main upgrade this year is the addition of LED headlights.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has named the 2021 Highlander one of only five midsize SUVs to earn their best possible Top Safety Pick+ rating. It comes equipped with the top-of-the-line safety program Toyota Safety Sense, which includes features like pedestrian detection, lane tracking assist, and lane departure alert.
In 2019, an automotive research firm conducted a study of 15.8 million preowned cars in order to document which manufacturers and models were most likely to still be running after 200,000 miles. Of the top five models, three were made by Toyota, including the hybrid version of the Highlander. Granted, you may be seduced by another upgrade before reaching 200,000 miles on your own Highlander, but it’s nice to know that the durability of your vehicle is unmatched.
Now that we’ve introduced you to some of the details about the latest Toyota Highlander, it’s time for you to come drive one for yourself. Come into Premier Toyota of Amherst today! We’ll be happy to take you for a test drive and walk you through any other questions you may have. We can’t wait to see you.