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The current generation of Toyota’s mid-size crossover has been around since 2019 and the sales numbers are pretty impressive. The Highlander holds one of the leading positions in the segment but the Japanese manufacturer wants even better results. That’s why the 2023 Toyota Highlander is about to come with novelties. If we can trust the latest reports, this will be a year for a mid-cycle update. Furthermore, it looks like the company is about to introduce a stretched version, called Grand Highlander.
Of course, it’s quite easy to presume that most of the changes will be visual. We expect to see a couple of interesting novelties, particularly at the front. On the other hand, the interior shouldn’t change too much, though there is always room for tech updates like new screens, safety systems etc. Finally, there is a chance to see a new powertrain option on the offer, though the officials are still quiet.
We believe that the 2023 Toyota Highlander will hit the market sometime in the second half of 2022.
2023 Toyota Highlander Redesign
Design-wise, we expect to see a typical facelift. So, most of the changes should be visual, particularly at the front end. We presume that the Japanese manufacturer will offer some revisions regarding grille design and headlights, as well as a new bumper. A couple of changes are expected on the rear end as well, while we also count on things like new color options, new wheels etc.
Another big novelty will be the new 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander, a stretched version that’s going to offer more space for the passengers and more cargo volume. The standard model features 12.2 inches in wheelbase, which is relatively modest for this segment, where we have much longer vehicles, such as Chevy Traverse or VW Atlas. Toyota wants to enter that niche of the segment as well, but we are still waiting for the officials for the exact details.
Interior
Unlike the exterior, the interior design probably won’t feature bigger changes. Still, we presume we could see smaller updates on the dashboard, including a new, bigger infotainment screen. Furthermore, new color schemes and materials also sound likely. On the other hand, the overall layout will remain the same and the 2023 Toyota Highlander will offer the same amount of space for the passengers, as well as for the cargo.
When it comes to the new Grand Highlander, we already talked about the longer wheelbase. As a result, we expect to see more space on the inside, especially in the third row, which is currently relatively tight for the segment. Also, we have no doubt that this model will offer more cargo space compared to the standard model, which is good for about 16 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet behind the second and nearly 85 cubic feet of the total cargo volume.
Tech Features
Novelties in this aspect are always possible but it is important to keep in mind that the current model already stands pretty well in this aspect. Therefore, we don’t expect to see too much in this aspect. For reference, the current model comes standard with goodies like tri-zone climate control, keyless entry, 8-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, five USB ports, Bluetooth, satellite radio, a six-speaker stereo, and a Wi-Fi hot spot.
Additionally, you can get upgrades like a 12.3-inch touch screen, wireless device charging, navigation, and an 11-speaker JBL premium stereo, as well as a moonroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a universal garage door opener, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster display, ambient interior lighting, a household-style power outlet, panoramic moonroof etc.
2023 Toyota Highlander Engines
The current model comes with two powertrain options on offer and we have no doubt that the 2023 Toyota Highlander will continue with both of them. So, base versions will carry on with a good-old 3.5-liter V6, which puts out around 295 horsepower. This engine comes in pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission and offers pretty good overall driving dynamics.
Also, there is a familiar hybrid version, based on a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Paired with CVT, this system delivers a total output of 243 horsepower to the wheels.
Finally, some sources speculate about the possible addition of a plug-in hybrid version, which would come as the 2023 Toyota Highlander Prime. It would feature the same or similar system as the RAV4 Prime, which puts out over 300 horsepower. At this point, the officials are still quiet on this matter.
2023 Toyota Highlander Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2023 Toyota Highlander will arrive sometime in the second half of the next year. The current model starts at around 36.000 dollars and we don’t expect to see a bigger increase in the future.
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