Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2024 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD. If you're in the market for a reliable, family-friendly SUV with all-wheel drive, the Highlander XLE should definitely be on your radar. We're going to cover everything from its performance and interior features to its safety tech and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2024 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll find a robust 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that cranks out 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine replaces the previous V6, and honestly, it's a fantastic upgrade. The turbocharger provides plenty of low-end grunt, making acceleration smooth and responsive, whether you're merging onto the highway or navigating city streets. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, further enhancing the driving experience. And with all-wheel drive, you get added confidence in various weather conditions, making it a great choice for those living in areas with snow or rain.

The Highlander's handling is also quite commendable for a vehicle of its size. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. While it's not exactly a sports car, the Highlander feels planted and stable on the road, inspiring confidence behind the wheel. Plus, the AWD system automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels as needed, optimizing traction and stability. For those who occasionally need to tow, the Highlander XLE AWD offers a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, which is more than enough for a small boat or trailer. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2024 Highlander XLE AWD strike a nice balance between power, comfort, and capability.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2024 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD, you'll immediately notice the spacious and well-appointed cabin. The XLE trim offers a great blend of comfort and convenience features, making it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're on a short commute or a long road trip. The seats are upholstered in SofTex, which is a synthetic leather that feels soft and durable. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position, and both front seats are heated for added comfort during chilly days. The second-row seats are also comfortable and offer plenty of legroom, even for taller passengers. And with the third-row seats, the Highlander can accommodate up to eight people, making it a great option for large families.

In terms of technology, the Highlander XLE comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display that's easy to use and responsive. It features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The six-speaker audio system delivers decent sound quality, but if you're a true audiophile, you might want to consider upgrading to the JBL premium sound system available on higher trims. Other notable features include a power liftgate, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a suite of USB ports throughout the cabin to keep everyone's devices charged. The overall design is modern and functional, with a good mix of soft-touch materials and user-friendly controls. Toyota has really focused on making the interior a comfortable and practical space for families on the go.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Technologies

When it comes to safety, the 2024 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is packed with features to help protect you and your passengers. Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ comes standard, which includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. These include pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. The pre-collision system can detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, and it can automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate a collision. Lane departure alert warns you if you start to drift out of your lane, and lane tracing assist helps keep you centered in your lane. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, making long highway drives much more relaxing.

In addition to these advanced safety features, the Highlander also comes with standard features like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, which can help you avoid accidents when changing lanes or backing out of parking spaces. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind you, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spots. And with eight airbags throughout the cabin, the Highlander offers excellent crash protection. The 2024 Highlander has earned top safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), giving you added peace of mind knowing that it's a safe and reliable vehicle for your family.

Fuel Efficiency and MPG

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many buyers, and the 2024 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD delivers respectable numbers for its class. The EPA estimates that it gets 21 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined. These figures are pretty competitive compared to other mid-size SUVs with all-wheel drive. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is designed to be more fuel-efficient than the previous V6, without sacrificing performance. The eight-speed automatic transmission also helps to optimize fuel economy by keeping the engine in its most efficient range.

Of course, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. If you do a lot of city driving or have a heavy foot, you might not achieve the EPA estimates. However, if you're primarily driving on the highway and maintain a steady speed, you should be able to get close to the advertised numbers. The Highlander also has an Eco mode that you can activate to further improve fuel efficiency. This mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel economy over performance. Overall, the 2024 Highlander XLE AWD offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily driving and long trips.

Pricing and Value

The 2024 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD offers excellent value for the money. The starting price for the XLE trim with all-wheel drive is around $43,000, which is competitive with other mid-size SUVs in its class. For that price, you get a well-equipped vehicle with a powerful engine, comfortable interior, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Compared to some of its competitors, the Highlander offers a better combination of features and reliability at a similar price point. Toyota has a reputation for building durable and long-lasting vehicles, and the Highlander is no exception. With proper maintenance, it should provide years of trouble-free service.

In addition to its initial purchase price, the Highlander also holds its value well over time. This means that you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade it in. The Highlander also has relatively low running costs, thanks to its good fuel economy and reasonable maintenance requirements. Overall, the 2024 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is a smart choice for buyers who are looking for a reliable, practical, and well-rounded SUV that offers excellent value for the money. It's a vehicle that you can depend on for years to come, whether you're using it for daily commuting, family road trips, or anything in between.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! The 2024 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is a fantastic SUV that checks all the boxes for families and individuals alike. With its powerful engine, comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and excellent value, it's hard to go wrong with this vehicle. Whether you're looking for a daily driver or a road trip companion, the Highlander is up to the task. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, be sure to give the 2024 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD a serious look. You might just find that it's the perfect vehicle for your needs. Thanks for reading, and we'll catch you in the next review!