2021 Toyota Highlander XSE Package Offers New Sporty Look
We have a big family and, therefore, are constantly looking for a vehicle that can easily fit most of us. The Toyota Highlander has never disappointed. It’s consistently proved to be a family favorite year-after-year.
The 2021 Toyota Highlander XSE AWD once again sets the bar high. In fact, with this being the first time in 20 years that the Highlander has been given the XSE treatment, it may be hard to beat.
2021 Toyota Highlander XSE
Let’s get started with what you’ll see on the family SUV with the new XSE package:
Bumper-to-Bumper Style Makeover
The front fascia, grille, and lower spoiler are exclusive to this model and impart a more aggressive stance. The restyled upper grille joins a much larger lower air intake integrated into the new bumper, with a spoiler below that. Unique headlamps feature black accents and light-strip DRLs.
New Visual Flair
…unique rocker panels add an edgy accent to the Highlander XSE’s sculpted lines. Around back, there’s a shocker: the first-ever twin-tip exhaust on a Highlander. Black roof rails, mirror caps, and window moldings dial up the subtle cool factor.
Bold Interior
Inside, the Highlander XSE rocks black SofTex®-trimmed seats with fabric inserts, while ambient lighting and carbon-fiber finish on the instrument panel sets the mood. A striking two-tone red and black leather-trimmed interior with red-stitched instrument panel is available.
Rocking Entertainment + Tech
The XSE comes ready to take on all devices with Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, as well as five USB ports and an all access 3-month trial of SiriusXM®.
The Highlander XSE will also offer an available Premium Audio 1200-Watt, 11-speaker JBL® sound system and dynamic navigation with a 3-year trial.
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+)
Even more importantly, the 2021 Toyota Highlander has been upgraded with Standard Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.5+), a comprehensive suite of active safety systems that includes:
- Pre-collision System with Pedestrian Detection is enhanced with intersection support:
- At intersections, the system may detect an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian when performing a left-hand turn and may provide audio/visual alerts and automatic braking in certain conditions.
- Additional PCS function includes emergency steering assist, which is designed to stabilize the driver’s emergency steering maneuvers within their lane while avoiding a preceding pedestrian
- Road Sign Assist (RSA)
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
- Lane Keeping Technology: Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Sway Warning System
- Automatic High Beams (AHB)
Finally, for those of you gearheads looking for information on the engine, the 2021 Toyota Highlander XSE is powered by a 295-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that’s teamed with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s available with either Front-Wheel Drive or Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive.
Furthermore, in addition to exclusive machined-faced 20-inch wheels with black accents, the XSE model is equipped with higher-rate springs and rear stabilizer bar, and the shock absorbers have been re-tuned for lower friction.
Electric power steering has also been re-tuned for a sportier steering feel. These carefully calibrated new parts boost handling agility for the XSE while preserving Highlander’s renowned ride comfort.
As you can tell, with the new XSE package, the 2021 Toyota Highlander has retained its position as a reliable, solid, safe family SUV.