Toyota’s New 2021 Highlander XSE Combines Aggressive Styling With Sportier Handling

The Toyota Highlander lineup is expanding as the three-row crossover is gaining an all-new and sportier XSE variant for 2021.

Following in the footsteps of the Camry XSE, the Highlander features an aggressive front fascia with a revised grille and larger lower air intake. The model also has tinted lighting units and a metallic spoiler.

The sporty styling touches continue further back as the crossover is equipped with exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels that feature black accents. Buyers will also find new side skirts, blacked out window trim and black mirror caps. Rounding out the highlights are black roof rails and a chromed dual exhaust system.

Driven: 2020 Toyota Highlander Is Better Overall, But Is That Enough?

Interior changes are limited but include ambient lighting, faux carbon fiber trim and black Softex seats with fabric inserts. Customers can also opt for a two-tone interior featuring black and red leather as well as red contrast stitching.

The improvements aren’t just skin deep as Highlander XSE features a sportier suspension with retuned shocks, springs and a rear stabilizer bar. The electric power steering system has also been recalibrated to deliver a more direct feel.

One thing that hasn’t changed is the crossover’s 3.5-liter V6 engine which continues to produce 295 hp (220 kW / 299 PS) and 263 lb-ft (356 Nm) of torque. It’s paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission which can send power to an optional dynamic torque vectoring all-wheel drive system.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander XSE will be launched this fall and slot between the XLE and Limited variants. Toyota didn’t mention pricing, but we can expect the model to cost around $42,000 given its positioning. Despite that sizable price tag, the company expects around 12 percent of Highlander buyers to opt for the XSE.