The 2017 Toyota Highlander received significant enhancements, and for families seeking a blend of comfort, features, and value, the 2017 Toyota Highlander Xle stands out as a particularly compelling option. This model year brought a host of upgrades to the popular SUV, making the Highlander more appealing than ever in the competitive midsize SUV segment. Let’s delve into what makes the 2017 Highlander XLE a smart choice for discerning drivers.
2017 Toyota Highlander XLE: Key Upgrades and Enhanced Features
The 2017 model year marked a turning point for the Toyota Highlander, introducing a range of improvements that spanned performance, safety, and style. The XLE trim, in particular, benefited significantly from these updates, solidifying its position as a sweet spot within the Highlander lineup.
Potent Performance with a New V6 Engine
Under the hood, the 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE boasts a brand-new 3.5-liter D-4S Injection V6 engine. This engine represents a substantial upgrade over previous iterations, delivering a robust 295 horsepower and 263 lb.-ft. of torque. This translates to enhanced acceleration and confident passing power, crucial for daily driving and longer family road trips.
Coupled with this new engine is the Direct Shift – 8AT 8-speed automatic transmission. The increased number of gears compared to the previous 6-speed transmission optimizes both performance and fuel efficiency. Drivers of the 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE will appreciate the smoother gear transitions and the improved responsiveness.
Furthermore, the V6 models of the Highlander, including the XLE, (excluding the base LE trim) are equipped with the Stop and Start Engine System (S&S). This system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it seamlessly when the brake pedal is released. This feature contributes to reduced emissions and improved fuel economy, particularly in city driving conditions, and provides a quieter cabin experience when stationary.
Enhanced Safety with Toyota Safety Sense™ P Standard
Safety is paramount for family vehicles, and the 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE delivers with the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P) as standard equipment. This suite of advanced safety technologies provides an extra layer of protection and driver assistance. TSS-P utilizes millimeter-wave radar and a monocular camera to monitor the road ahead and help prevent or mitigate collisions.
Key features within Toyota Safety Sense™ P include:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: This system can detect both vehicles and pedestrians ahead. If a potential collision is detected, it can provide an audible and visual warning to the driver and even automatically apply the brakes if necessary.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: This feature helps drivers stay within their lane. If the system detects unintentional lane departure, it will provide an audible and visual warning, and in some cases, provide gentle steering corrections to guide the vehicle back into the lane.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: This adaptive cruise control system maintains a preset speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead. It can automatically adjust the Highlander’s speed to maintain a safe gap, enhancing convenience and safety during highway driving.
- Automatic High Beams: This system automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles, optimizing visibility for the driver without blinding oncoming traffic.
Beyond TSS-P, the 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE also features a standard back-up camera, enhancing visibility when reversing. Moreover, the XLE trim and above come standard with Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (BSM w/RCTA). BSM alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, while RCTA helps detect vehicles approaching from the side when reversing out of parking spaces or driveways.
Interior Comfort and Convenience Refinements in the XLE
The interior of the 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE is designed with both driver and passenger comfort in mind. For 2017, all Highlander models received enhanced interior convenience, and the XLE trim is particularly well-appointed.
A significant upgrade for all 2017 Highlanders is the addition of more USB ports. The XLE now features a total of five USB ports, making it easier than ever to keep everyone’s devices charged on the go – a welcome feature for tech-savvy families.
Building upon the features of the LE and LE Plus trims, the XLE offers a significant step up in terms of comfort and amenities. Standard features for the 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE include:
- Leather-trimmed seats: Providing a touch of luxury and enhanced comfort for all occupants.
- Heated front seats: Adding warmth and comfort for driver and front passenger in colder climates.
- Smart Key System with push button start: Offering keyless entry and ignition for added convenience.
- Power tilt-slide moonroof: Bringing in natural light and fresh air into the cabin.
- Driver Easy Speak: A unique feature that uses a microphone to amplify the driver’s voice through the rear speakers, making it easier to communicate with passengers in the back rows.
- Second-row integrated sun shades: Protecting rear passengers from sun glare and heat.
- 4.2-inch color multi-information display: Providing important vehicle information in a clear and easily accessible format.
- Entune™ Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite: Offering a comprehensive infotainment system with navigation, smartphone app integration, and more.
Exterior Styling Enhancements
The 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE also benefits from exterior styling updates that were introduced for the model year. The front grille on the XLE trim features a silver-painted finish, contributing to a more refined and modern look. The taillights have been redesigned for a sleeker appearance and now incorporate standard LEDs.
These subtle yet effective exterior enhancements give the 2017 Highlander, including the XLE, a more contemporary and sophisticated presence on the road.
Pricing and Value Proposition of the XLE
While the 2017 Highlander lineup saw a slight average price increase, the Highlander Hybrid models actually experienced a price decrease. The 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE represents a strong value proposition within the range, offering a wealth of features and upgrades at a competitive price point. It provides a balance of desirable amenities without reaching the higher price tags of the Limited or Platinum trims, making it an accessible option for many families.
Conclusion: The 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE – A Smart Choice for Families
The 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE is a well-rounded and highly appealing midsize SUV that builds upon the Highlander’s reputation for reliability and practicality. With its new, more powerful and efficient V6 engine, enhanced safety features with standard Toyota Safety Sense™ P, a comfortable and feature-rich interior, and refined exterior styling, the 2017 Highlander XLE elevates the family SUV experience. For those seeking a dependable, versatile, and well-equipped vehicle for their daily needs and family adventures, the 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE is definitely worth considering.
