The Toyota Highlander midsize SUV comes in 11 different categories if you count its hybrid options as categories. Each grade and trim offers different features as well as different levels of luxury and capability. What’s the difference between the 2022 Toyota Highlander LE midsize SUV and the XLE?
The 2022 Toyota Highlander LE comes with many standard features
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The 2022 Toyota Highlander LE starts at $37,405. It uses a 3.5 liter V6 engine to develop 295 horsepower. The Highlander LE achieves 21 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway.
The midsize SUV comes standard with a 4.2-inch multi-information display, five USB ports and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also includes heated exterior mirrors with turn signals, push-button start and smart key system.
The Toyota Highlander XLE offers a more luxurious feel
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The 2022 Toyota Highlander XLE starts at $42,205. It costs $4,600 more than the LE. What do consumers get for that extra $4,600?
The first major difference between the two trims is the seat. The XLE features Toyota’s SofTex material. The front and center rows use SofTex-trimmed seats. The front seats of the XLE model are also heated. The XLE is a seven-seater while the LE can seat eight. The most expensive model includes second-row captain’s chairs instead of bench seats. It also comes with second row sun visors.
The 2022 Toyota Highlander XLE includes a larger 7.0-inch multi-information display. It also comes with an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, a feature that allows users to open garage doors with just the push of a button on the rearview mirror. The mid-size SUV also offers smartphone charging.
The Highlander XLE comes with additional exterior features such as mud flaps, roof rails and a one-touch power sunroof. The price difference between the two models might seem big, but the Japanese automaker clearly delivers value at every rung of the price ladder.
Which 2022 Toyota Highlander is the best value?
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Which of the 11 different grades of Toyota Highlander is the best value? Although drivers have different preferences, Car and driver decided that the XLE is the best buy. This may come as a surprise to fans of the hybrid model, but the automotive publication takes a close look at the vehicle’s features at each trim level.
The 2022 Toyota Highlander XLE is the best Highlander trim for the price because of the many luxurious features it packs for less than $43,000. Features like heated SofTex-trimmed front seats and a wireless smartphone charger make the XLE too sweet a deal for some consumers to pass up. Is the Toyota Highlander XLE underrated?
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