Crossovers are a great option for families who need the room an SUV offers but are looking for something a bit sportier, and the 2021 Toyota Highlander is just that. The latest Highlander iteration is extremely driveable, and offers three rows of seating. In 2021, everyone can find a Highlander that fits their needs, as Toyota is offering five different trim levels for this model, including a hybrid option for the environmentally conscious driver. If you’re interested in becoming an auto mechanic, here’s everything you need to know about the 2021 Toyota Highlander.
If You Want to Become a Mechanic, Here’s the 2021 Highlanders You Might Soon See
What can pros with an automotive mechanic career expect from the 2021 lineup? For 2021, the Highlander lineup includes the L, LE, Hybrid, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum options, and all come with the option to upgrade to all-wheel drive. This is the first time that Toyota has offered the XSE model within the Highlander lineup, which offers sportier suspension and a sleek exterior with black accents. However, the XLE is probably a driver’s best bet in terms of bang for their buck. This mid-range option features a sunroof, heated front seats, and even a wireless charging pad for smartphones.
The 2021 Highlander’s Performance
The standard Highlander is equipped with a 3.5-litre V-6 engine, which delivers 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, with an eight-speed transmission. With this powertrain, an outfitted Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is not a small amount for a crossover vehicle. As for the Hybrid, the 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine and two electric motors combine to deliver 243 horsepower, with continuously variable automatic transmission.
In terms of fuel economy, the Highlander V-6 delivers around 8 L/100 km on the highway, and around 8.4 L/100 km in the city. With a hybrid model, drivers can expect their Highlander to earn around 6.5 L/100 km in the city and 6.7 L/100 km on the highway.
Comfort and Interior
Those who want to become a mechanic should know that cabin space is what sets the Highlander apart from the rest, boasting three rows, plenty of storage, and comfortable seating for eight (although the last row of seats is more suited to children). In the two front rows, passengers can stretch out with over 40 inches of leg room when the third row is not in use. With all the seats up, the Highlander can fit 16.0 cubic feet of belongings, but with both rows folded, the Highlander can hold more than 84 cubic feet of gear, perfect for any family’s road trip needs.
Special Features
Every model in the Highlander lineup offers standard driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, active lane control, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitors. Those opting for the Platinum option will benefit from leather upholstery, a larger infotainment display screen, and other luxury features, but drivers can rest assured that any Highlander they choose will be well-equipped. All models are equipped with an infotainment system, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.
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