The 2023 Toyota Highlander is celebrated as a versatile three-row SUV, blending ruggedness with sophistication, and packed with features designed for today’s dynamic lifestyles. For families and individuals alike, the Highlander offers ample space, cutting-edge technology, and a comprehensive safety suite, making every journey, whether a daily commute or a cross-country adventure, a premium experience. Among the diverse lineup of trims, the Toyota Highlander Le stands out as a compelling option, balancing essential features with exceptional value.
If you’re exploring the 2023 Toyota Highlander and seeking a trim that offers both quality and affordability, the LE model is definitely worth a closer look. This guide, crafted by the experts at Miller Toyota, your trusted automotive resource, will delve into the specifics of the Toyota Highlander LE, highlighting why it might be the perfect choice for you.
Unpacking the Toyota Highlander LE: Features and Specifications
The 2023 Toyota Highlander LE is thoughtfully equipped to provide a comfortable, safe, and connected driving experience. It builds upon the solid foundation of the Highlander L, adding enhancements that elevate everyday usability and convenience.
Potent Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the Highlander LE, like all gasoline-powered 2023 Highlander trims, boasts a robust 2.4L turbo I4 engine. This engine delivers an impressive 265 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, ensuring confident acceleration and ample power for various driving conditions. Coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and stop/start technology, the Highlander LE also achieves a respectable fuel economy of 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. Drivers can also tailor their driving experience with selectable drive modes, including Sport, Eco, Normal, and Snow, adapting the vehicle’s performance to different terrains and preferences.
| Engine Specification | Toyota Highlander LE |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo I4 |
| Horsepower | 265 HP |
| Torque | 310 lb.-ft. |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs. |
| MPG (City/Highway) | 22 / 29 |
The powerful 2.4L turbo engine of the 2023 Toyota Highlander LE delivers a blend of performance and efficiency.
Interior Comfort and Versatility
The interior of the Toyota Highlander LE is designed with family comfort and practicality in mind. It comfortably seats eight passengers with fabric-trimmed seats and offers versatile cargo space. The 60/40 split-folding second and third-row seats allow for multiple configurations, maximizing space for passengers and cargo as needed. With all seats in place, it provides a generous cargo area, and when the rear seats are folded down, the Toyota Highlander LE expands to offer a maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet. Tri-zone automatic climate control ensures everyone stays comfortable, and with 14 cup holders, staying refreshed on long trips is easy for all passengers.
Spacious interior of the Toyota Highlander LE provides comfortable seating for up to eight passengers and ample cargo room.
Key interior features of the Highlander LE include:
- Eight-passenger seating
- Fabric seat material
- Eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Four-way manually adjustable front passenger’s seat
- 60/40 split-fold second and third-row seats
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- 14 cup holders
Technology and Connectivity at Your Fingertips
The 2023 Toyota Highlander LE is equipped with user-friendly technology to keep you connected and entertained on the go. The centerpiece is the 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen display, which integrates wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, allowing seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and communication. Bluetooth® connectivity enables hands-free calling and audio streaming, and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio provides a wide range of entertainment options. A 7-inch driver information display keeps essential vehicle data readily visible.
The 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system in the Highlander LE offers wireless smartphone integration and essential connectivity features.
Notable technology features include:
- 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Bluetooth® wireless technology
- SiriusXM® Satellite Radio compatibility
- 7-inch driver information display
- Six-speaker audio system
- Push-button start
- Remote keyless entry
Comprehensive Safety Features
Toyota’s commitment to safety is evident in the Highlander LE, which comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+). This suite of active safety technologies includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
In addition to TSS 2.5+, the Highlander LE features the Star Safety System™, which encompasses Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology®. A backup camera with a projected path further enhances safety and visibility when reversing. The Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), an upgrade from the base L trim, is also included in the LE, providing added peace of mind during lane changes and while backing out of parking spaces.
Why Choose the Toyota Highlander LE?
The Toyota Highlander LE distinguishes itself by offering a significant step up from the base L trim without a substantial price increase. It provides essential upgrades that enhance both convenience and safety, making it an excellent value proposition for families and individuals seeking a well-rounded SUV.
Compared to the Highlander L, the LE trim adds valuable features like LED fog lights for improved visibility, heated power exterior mirrors with blind spot warning indicators for added safety and convenience in colder climates, and a height-adjustable power liftgate for easier cargo access. The leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob also add a touch of refinement to the interior.
While the XLE trim offers further upgrades like SofTex® seats, heated front seats, and a power moonroof, the LE trim provides a strong balance of essential features at a more accessible price point. For buyers prioritizing value and key functionalities, the Toyota Highlander LE presents a compelling choice within the Highlander lineup.
Conclusion: The Smart Choice in the Highlander Family
The 2023 Toyota Highlander LE is a smart choice for those seeking a reliable, spacious, and feature-rich SUV without exceeding their budget. It provides a strong combination of performance, comfort, technology, and safety, making it well-suited for daily driving and family adventures. With its enhanced features over the base L trim and attractive price point, the Highlander LE truly embodies value within the 2023 Toyota Highlander family. If you’re in the market for a capable and family-friendly SUV, the Toyota Highlander LE deserves serious consideration.
