I like the XSE. So much so, that I leased one earlier this year. Leased a 2021 XSE in Black with the Black interior. LOVE the Highlander! Go team Toyota! Thanks Jeff for posting/sharing the comparison! -Dave from CT.
When the XSE was first shown by Toyota, I thought I preferred the different front fascia, but it turns out I prefer the regular front. As well, I just prefer everything about the XLE trim over any other trim. My understanding is the XLE is the most popular trim level, and it makes sense because it includes quite a lot of value.
Both are really nice but I would rather go with the XSE. I just like the design better on the XSE. I think the grill design looks better and like how it has a more sporty look to it. Also I think the rims look better on the XSE. I am just not that crazy with the style of the rims they put on the XLE. I thought when they were coming out with the XSE model in the highlander if would be a hybrid also just like the RAV4 in the XSE but it's not. I would really like to see them make this XSE highlander in a hybrid. I think the hybrid is the way to go and really love my Rav4 XSE hybrid a lot. Just being able to go so much longer before having to fill up with gas is really nice. Where I live I can go almost a month on a full tank of gas with my Rav4 XSE and that's just with in town city driving mainly. I think that is really good for a vehicle like this and it's a SUV and not a car.
The difference is mostly cosmetic, so I'll take the XLE any day of the week! P.S Can I upgrade the 8 inch multi-media interface to the 12.3 inch with the $1050 option on the XLE? Or is the upgrade just a better sound output but keeps the 8 inch screen?
Hey Jeff, would you be able to request for us consumers that the 12.3 screen allow full screen navigation and CarPlay/android auto? I find it very unsafe when I am driving and there are 2-3 things happening on the screen. I’m not sure how to file a complaint about this.
I enjoy the overall sportiness of the XSE, but especially the grill. Also, you said the XLE has on demand AWD where it kicks in when needed (5:40). I assume you're talking about the XLE AWD and not the 4x2 you referenced.
It is very nice to have an AWD option at really a minimal $1600 cost. Also the AWD system is minimally used = should last along time with minimal maintenance. AWD = all wheels must match, need to replace all 4 at a time.
Dear GOD Toyotas are SO UGLY and cheap inside!!!😫😖and the navigation graphics look like they're from 1980! The display like one of those $20 Walmart tablets😫soooo awful! Now I remember why I stopped buying Toyotas after 1997. They never updated!
