The 2023 Toyota Highlander - BIG CHANGES (But Are They Better?)

[@brianruperti]

Hey everyone thanks for watching! Here are some useful/related links: 🔴📖Brochure for 2023 Highlander: www.toyota.com/content/dam/toyota/brochures/pdf/2023/highlander_ebrochure.pdf 🔴📖Build Info for 2023 Highlander: www.toyota.com/configurator/build/step/model/year/2023/series/highlander/ 🎥 Highlander Playlist! kzbin.info/aero/PL4miB4kLpU3yLsBU3hM-MPgqLcvF_v6Pl ____________________________________ 🔵A simple tip about your smart key! ↙️ kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYjQo2SMhbprmdk 🟢Get up to date on how Toyota hybrids work!↙️(in case you have the hybrid one) kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3fRo3qmerOeb7M 🔴2023 Highlander Tutorial!↙️ kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqS7eYaEdtpjq9k

[@ToyotaTacoma-js6on]

I just bought a new 2022 Highlander XLE, because I did not want the 4 cylinder Turbo Engine. Big mistake Toyota switching to the turbo. It will not be as reliable as the 3.5 V6. I plan on keeping my 22 till it want run anymore. Toyota will lose a lot of customers because of the switch. I was going to buy a new Tundra but they went to the turbo also . I wanted a V8 in my work truck so I bought a Ford F150 with the 5.0 V8. Great video. You do an excellent job. I’m just old school. No turbo’s for me or or V6 turbos in trucks, or electric vehicles as long as I can still get non turbos and V8’s for my work truck Keep up the good work , Brian

[@brianruperti]

Thank you very much for sharing your opinion and big congratulations on your 2022. I definitely understand where you’re coming from and I hope that Toyota will make this new platform very reliable but time will tell

[@antoniocognato5023]

Nissan is still using v6 and v8 engines! The rav4 is good. But the older rav4 v6 is a rocket!!

[@ryanstadick289]

From what I’ve heard from the dealership Toyota dosent want to switch to turbo on any vehicles. The reason they have to is due to government regulations and emissions. If you look at the Mpg difference there isn’t one between the v6 and the turbo 4. They’re doing it because they have to, because of emission regulations everything with a gas engine will have a turbo in the next 5-10 years.

[@Thedonron12]

How is your F150 with the 5.0? Do you like it? I am considering one for a truck as I too also don't want to go down the TT V6 route.

[@ToyotaTacoma-js6on]

Runs good, so far no problems Rides better than the Tundra

[@Howard2006]

I also have concerns about the turbo 4 cylinder versus the V6. We have had several V6 Highlanders and Camrys. I will be interested in any comments about performance of the turbo 4 cylinder and any issues.

[@K1600-l7f]

I agree. I also have concerns about the I4 turbo, as compared to a naturally aspirated V6. I would never expect the I4 turbo to have the kind of longevity you would otherwise see from the non-turbo V-6.

[@PamiriAriya]

I don’t know why people care about sound, looks, feelings of v6, or power all I want is to get from point A to point B with better MPG as possible. That’s why I got one of these 2023 LE FWD that gives me MPG 36/35 and third-row seats. ) because of mpg I switched from Honda to Toyota.

[@juanlizarraga9012]

Literally 1 more city mile on Google specs but anyway v6 no turbo will put live any 4 banger less stress on those wittle pistons .

[@jtjt8331]

Just purchased a 23 Highlander platinum 4 cylinder Turbocharger it’s very fast! Especially since I came from a V-8 Lexus GX 460!

[@marklloyd4153]

Nice color but I’ll keep my V6 22 Platinum in the white pearl color . I don’t like overly torquey 4 bangers . V6 reliability and smooth luxury for me . I would rather have paint than the black around the fenders .

[@Christmas10100]

Great video! Finally I wanted to see the spare tire and you showed it. We just got a 2023 and we have a 2013 that we have had for years and we love it.

[@brianruperti]

Glad I could help!

[@johnniestockett2523]

Awesome video! I just purchased a Toyota Highlander XLE AWD 2022 , I love the V 6 !

[@brianruperti]

Thanks! Congrats and gotta love that V6 Power!!! 😈

[@licett5278]

Just purchased a 2023 highlander, this was great info! Thank you

[@brianruperti]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jimmulderig743]

I got mine 3 days ago and like it. More power. I didn’t like I only got 1 key fob due to shortage.

[@brianruperti]

Congrats! Hopefully it is resolved soon.

[@richrest]

I test drove a ‘23 xle yesterday and found that the brake pedal seem to be on the hard side. Stopping power is not that great too. Did you feel and observed that as well? Btw, from all the videos I watched here in youtube, so far you are the only one who presented clearly how a second row spacing will look like after the 3rd row seats are occupied. 👏

[@brianruperti]

Interesting observation. I would rate the braking “sufficient” simply a 7/10. It’s good enough for me. It’s def different than a brand new Corolla or Camry. However since I am used to the Highlander from using so many of them, it’s not even noticeable anymore. It’s normal to me and expectable. Each car I get into, I almost change like a chameleon from muscle memory. Weird I know but I hope you can understand. And thanks! I try to review them from a consumer’s point of view :-)

[@dankasttoris]

Do you know if it’s better with premium fuel for 2023 turbo engine? Highlander manual says regular fuel but the Lexus NX350 which has the exact same engine says premium fuel required..

[@brianruperti]

I would run what the book says because we don’t know if the tuned it a little different or changed a couple slight internals to work for the Toyota. Great question. If you really want to make the turbo last, I suggest top tier fuel when you can (search their website) I also suggest a good 30 seconds of warm up before driving and a good 30 seconds of idling when done driving. But that’s totally unnecessary but if I drove a turbo I would do those. After hard driving and speeding maybe even 2 minutes idling after that drive. But this is totally overkill. But I’m like that. Hope it helps! A couple small turbo friendly habits will make that little turbo last such a long time. But remember Toyota does not require this. Disclaimer: always read your manuals and follow Toyota’s recommendations over the guy on the internet. Cheers! 😎

[@brianruperti]

Oh and 5k oil changes not 10k. Always synthetic. My opinion.

[@dankasttoris]

@@brianruperti thanks Brian!!

[@brianruperti]

I got you

[@alvinsimba734]

@@brianruperti I agree with you on that one 100%. Oil changes should be 5000 miles and my 2020 corolla is same. The 2023 corolla has some changes, you should review them.

[@TheJabbo27]

Can you post the link for the floor mats?

[@brianruperti]

You can find mats for your car at parts.toyota.com or at your local Toyota dealer.

[@claervue7098]

As we research our 3rd Highlander, ditto comment below - well done, Brian. Most complete and thoughtful review I've seen. Though I much prefer some of the styling in earlier model, we'll buy another. It accomodates our bikes and bins as we travel. Do miss the roomy storage across front panel and larger center console. Wishing bench seat was available in combo. with driver's seat memory setting. Availability of hybrid 6 -8 months out. That's a problem.

[@brianruperti]

Thanks for watching and sharing your feedback

[@marksmith4582]

Good grief. I totally didn’t see this until today. December 30th. So glad to see you still posting videos! I don’t know what to think of the new 1.4 liter turbo! I’m still leaning towards wishing the V6 was still available! Belated Merry Christmas Brian! Early Happy New Year my Friend! Mark in Iowa.

[@brianruperti]

Hey!! I was wondering about you! So glad you’re well. Thanks for dropping by. The 2.4T should be ok but I love the V6 too. Belated merry Christmas! Happy new year best of wishes. Cheer Mark Brian.

[@robwatt7578]

We are very satisfied with our 2019 with the great V6, port as well as direct injection. Especially today’s gas prices we are using Sam’s club and Costco gas. We get from 18 to 31 mpg. It will also outrun the 2023 to 60, we do it in 7.1 seconds.

[@juanlizarraga9012]

Miss my 2017 😢 but I have the 2022 so happy I got the v6 before they put this baby engine in it.

[@ruezart]

very nice presentation! Can we get this without the 3rd row? Don’t need that feature.

[@brianruperti]

Thanks! No, they all have 3rd row so many people leave it folded down.

[@AlexBAlixir98]

Well done Brian. Always enjoy the very detailed and well explained reviews. Good to hear the turbo 4 works in the Highlander. Will be interesting to get a prime or hybrid max version. Can’t wait until you get a Crown to review. Would love to hear your take on this vehicle

[@brianruperti]

Thank you always for your support 🙏🏼 always great to hear your feedback. Yes the PRIME will be a blast for sure. Yes I am very excited to see the Crown! I can’t wait to dig in to that car and really see how it holds up to the other cars.

[@Howard2006]

Toyota changed to the turbo 4 cylinder for better emissions that have been required. As others, I have concerns about the Turbo since we have had reliable Toyota V6. Comments are appreciated.

[@310chris18]

Toyota used to make turbo cars in the beginning which still run today. So i wouldnt worry about reliability. The v6 is a good engine but the new 4 cyl turbo is juat as good. Toyota is smart they just dont slap a turbo to there cars like every other car manufacture thats why its taking them so long to finally use turbos. They took the time and years to perfect there engineering before slapping a turbo.

[@CobraDestro1]

This is the same 2.4L Turbo that has been in one of their Lexus SUV for a few years already. So not a brand new engine which means already tested out.

[@lyndasweat7762]

What are the safety features? Like lane assist forward collision assist. Does it have a sunroof?

[@brianruperti]

Please see the links to the brochure and build info for specifics on those systems :-) Links are in descriptions or tagged comment by me.

[@l2-4upphysicaltrainingover40]

So. Is XSE the higher end version? I want heated / cooled seats for both sides…is that possible? If so, what trim? I want the towing hitch also, as an option…mainly for bike rack.

[@brianruperti]

XSE is a sportier sister to the XLE. For cooled seats you need LTD or PLT. Please see the brochure attached.

[@jasonfields192]

Our platnum has both

[@vladimirgonzalez6003]

Hey Brian quick note is it just me or anything anyone here has also noted tons of shaking/rattling from middle row when driving around?

[@brianruperti]

Very interesting observation. I’ve used the highlander many times and some times for multi hour trips. I didn’t notice any shaking. Might I suggest matching all your tire pressure to the recommendation inside the drivers door jam and if that doesn’t fix it, would recommend bringing it in to service.

[@vladimirgonzalez6003]

@@brianruperti thanks Brian, I will check but I highly doubt as this is something I noticed straight from lot when I had no music playing. As I drive, I hear and see middle row (seats-sorry I wasn’t more clear) shaking. I tested with weight on them (passengers) and the rattling sound seizes to continue sounding.

[@abdouett3676]

Thank you for that awesome review! Could you make another one for limited trim?

[@brianruperti]

Thanks for watching! Yes when we get one I will gladly break it down for you

[@abdouett3676]

@@brianruperti Thank you very much! I can't find your video about the new infotainment !

[@brianruperti]

That’s coming tomorrow or Thursday stay tuned please 🙏🏼

[@abdouett3676]

@@brianruperti Thank you for you hard work and well done videos! Keep going Brian 👍

[@brianruperti]

Thank you thank you 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@hashimchaudhry7935]

Is this the Canadian version? No heated steer?

[@brianruperti]

USA and please see brochure attached

[@roysmith4953]

What interiors are available?

[@brianruperti]

Please see brochure link in description

[@mr.kamote2475]

Hello can you do tutorial rav 4 xle premium 2023

[@brianruperti]

Yes

[@tinhinnh]

Speculations are the new Grand Highlander will have different exterior styling but same interior as the regular Highlander..??

[@brianruperti]

Unknown still

[@benjanloo4256]

I love to see you go back to V6

[@benjanloo4256]

I'm not happy with four cylinder.

[@antoniocognato5023]

The limited, platinum, xse have a dial on console for awd system. Is it different than the others?

[@brianruperti]

That dial is for your drive modes. It’s the same.

[@jonszeto712]

Can you remove the middle row?

[@brianruperti]

It’s not designed to come out but anything is removable with the right tools

[@SirRommy]

I'm wondering if the 4 cylinder engine is nosier at freeway speeds than the v6 was? My wife's RAV 4 engine is very buzzy sounding and I hate it.

[@brianruperti]

I wouldn’t say it’s noisier but it sounds like a RAV4. Highlanders have a bit more sound reduction which helps.

[@twintippedweez]

Test drove a '22 and a '23 back to back. The 4-banger was an obnoxious match with this frame in both feel and sound when compared to the V6, though I did not get a chance to test it on the highway. Test drive was enough to confirm my choice to go for a '22 with the super reliable & proven (& anyone can fix it) V6. Very happy with my decision 5 months in.

[@strek200]

Does it have a cargo cover?

[@brianruperti]

Some come with them, some do not.

[@antoniocognato5023]

Brian, now the key fob Start , does that automatically come with the higher trims? Jbl premium audio. Do you have to pay monthly for it?

[@brianruperti]

Remote connect is free for the first year depending on the vehicle and then they do a monthly charge afterwards but JBL system is available for certain trims not standard. Please see the brochure attached.

[@alvinsimba734]

@@brianruperti when I got my 2020 corolla LE, I put an aftermarket remote starter on it in which it runs 15 minutes before shutting off.

[@c-c-330]

I’d love for you to review the 2023 rav4 le!

[@brianruperti]

Oh I def will be!

[@kellyquezada3908]

Great review!! Hopefully this engine allows the Highlanders to maintain its top ratings in the market!!

[@brianruperti]

Thanks and yes I hope so too!

[@frankofva8803]

I loved your Sienna review so much I’ve watched it five times. This one was equally impressive. Great job. I am recently retired and have rented the Highlander as well as two minivans (not Sienna). I know the vans aren’t considered hip but for traveling with a family and luggage they can’t be beat. When I compare the pricing of a mid-trim Highlander and mid-trim Sienna it seems you get so much more for your money with the van. I’ll make a decision after the first of the year and I wanted you to know how helpful your videos are. Take care.

[@brianruperti]

Hey Frank so nice to hear from you again and thanks so much for the kind words. I don’t know you but your comment made my night. Your support keeps me going. More importantly, I am happy my content has helped you get information to help guide your search! I am always here to help. Can’t wait to hear what you get!!

[@frankofva8803]

@@brianruperti Merry Christmas! I’ll let you know. Thanks, again.

[@brianruperti]

Cheers you too!

[@Calventius]

I put premium in my 2024 black Platinum with carmel glaze leather seats. My mileage is great. It does not have the power of my big V6 2003 Infinity G35 but so what. The interior is as nice as a Lexus. I love all the bells and whistles especially the blind spot monitoring. I keep the third row seats down. I paid 62k..54 plus delivery fee, 1k for gap i surance, 1k for extra paint protection, 1 k for 10 year warranty. After 6 months I only have 909 miles since I am retired and drive my other two cars.

[@bogart5131]

if I would buy a platinum, i will lift, put wider wheel all terrain tyre, remove some of front bumper and customise the mud guard or remove some

[@venictos]

Im buying one of these in a couple months

[@brianruperti]

Nice

[@jamiehoward2735]

Toyota took a risk with those four cylinders. They were getting decent highway mileage with the V6. May have to work on this little bit to get it to the overall satisfaction points of the previous model.

[@KidFragrance]

They changed to the 4-cylinder due to emissions. The green movement is death to everything lovely in this world.

[@freeheelsak]

I understand you are triggered but have you ever driven a turbo charged engine.

[@KidFragrance]

@@freeheelsak what makes me triggered? 😂 I have driven the turbo 2023 Highlander in Platinum and XSE grades. Although i would have chosen the platinum grade I loved how the XSE driving dynamic were better for some reason. JFYI, I ditched the Highlander this cycle and sold my V6 2021 Highlander Platinum for the Mazda CX90 inline six turbo. So I do love turbos after all. 😘👌 What do you drive??

[@freeheelsak]

@@KidFragrance 2017 sprinter and 2021 q7. The green movement is why we have clean air and National parks.

[@KidFragrance]

@@freeheelsak If Greta Thunberg reads YT comments she would disapprove of your not so green vehicles. SHAME ON YOU!! 😂😂😂

[@johnbart8454]

Looks like heated side back windows ?

[@brianruperti]

Looks like

[@TheLanard]

If the front passenger moves their seat up there’ll be room in the second room when the third road is used

[@MegaMarlon0123]

Check out the XLE XP !! Bigger and nicer wheels, black out emblems and a few other goodies 😊

[@brianruperti]

What country

[@MegaMarlon0123]

@@brianruperti I live here in Charlotte nc

[@brianruperti]

Sorry I read that wrong. Yes the XP package very nice version 😎

[@richardsussman5446]

I think you can forget the level of reliability you had with the 6 cylinder vs the 4 cylinder. That big vehicle is going to be harder on the smaller engine. Nice engine for the Rav4 but not the Highlander. I've also noticed its hard to find a used 2022 Highlander, the last year with the V6, and if you do find one, they are almost the cost of a new 4 cylinder.

[@paulstein9258]

Same engine in the Grand Highlander. 2.4T. Also, people express concerns about the turbo. Yet, the hybrid max on the Grand has a turbo and people sure want the Max.

[@Comet_MS64]

I own a 2023 highlander XLE. I can tell you you’ll hear a lot of wind noise in the cabin of this car and Toyota told me that’s the way the car is because of the design of the car so my advice to you if you don’t like wind noise don’t buy this car.

[@paulstein9258]

Can’t hear wind noise on my 2024 Limited. A function of the added insulation and acoustic glass on the windshield and front windows.

[@310chris18]

Toyota said not to electric cars so we might see more turbo cars from here on out.

[@kumane93]

Toyota is known for reliabilitysi I doubt they’d sabotage one of their best sellers… Can’t wait to get my hands on one of these in the summer… GO TOYOTA!!!

[@brianruperti]

Amen!!!!

[@raythemanroe]

It's government regulations, they have to meet emissions standards or face fines.. Non of these companies would be putting small turbo engines in big vehicles. It's going to be a disaster when all these engines will be blowing head gaskets and failing around 100k..

[@truth959]

I hope Toyota doesn't do artificial V6 sound.

[@brianruperti]

🙏🏼Same

[@ibnawf112]

... I was told 2 year wait time. I couldn't believe them, I still put down payment

[@brianruperti]

That’s dedication

[@ibnawf112]

@@brianruperti .. I should clarify, its the hybrid. But I'm sure they will give it to me soon hopefully

[@TheEdBuhrer]

it is an engine used in many models of Toyota and Lexus. Scale!

[@JayJay-cw3cg]

The only reason manufacturer's are changing their engine's is to comply with emissions. it has nothing to do with mpg even tho they're also suppose to increase their mpg's.

[@brianruperti]

I miss the V6

[@americandude3825]

Lemme get that beanie bro

[@brianruperti]

I get asked that all the time and I wish I knew where to get them. I got this two years ago at a training event and haven’t seen them since lol

[@magnoliap5824]

I have the 2017 and love it. I’m a little leery of a new engine but being Toyota it’s not a deal breaker. I don’t like the front grill. They have stuck with it for too long and it’s outdated. I’ll probably wait until 2024 to see if it’s updated. I’m also considering the Kia Telluride. Lol.

[@brianruperti]

The 2017 is such a nice truck. The new generation Highlander is going to be amazing. I suggest driving one of these though. The drive is what really sells the car.

[@l2-4upphysicaltrainingover40]

So...if I want the most plush version, I want the XLE version?

[@brianruperti]

Define plush?

[@JTKels]

Leased a 23 platinum Highlander with the four-cylinder turbo, plenty of power! Toyota did this to cut emissions by 50% excellent SUV and the platinum is extremely luxurious

[@antoniocognato5023]

This engine will go.in new tacoma. Screw that

[@brianruperti]

Not a fan of the turbo I see

[@antoniocognato5023]

@@brianruperti who would be? Unless it's a lexus or built in Japan lol

[@kellyquezada3908]

4runner too

[@antoniocognato5023]

@@kellyquezada3908 nope. 4runner will probably go one more year with v6 then maybe turbo 4. I hope not

[@brianruperti]

The T24 turbo in this Highlander is right from a Lexus NX ya know

[@saschaOK2309]

Ok!

[@antoniocognato5023]

Can't get into that turbo for this vehicle

[@ken102]

Engine too loud.

[@TheBullshit2011]

Not a fan of those either

[@angelblanco909]

Emissions

[@johnbart8454]

This small motor will change soon ! Donaldo will have gas at $ 1 or less a gallon !!

[@brianruperti]

You think V6 will come back?

[@jimlofaro5695]

way overpriced by at least 25-30k

[@brianruperti]

What would you pay for it?

[@venictos]

Its worth 40K

[@K1600-l7f]

Off-roading on trails? With a Highlander? Seriously? 🤔

[@brianruperti]

Unpaved gravel trails count when you’re in a Highlander 🤓

[@K1600-l7f]

@@brianruperti LOL. I suppose they do! On a serious note, did you happen to notice if the platinum includes an electronic rearview mirror with camera, such as the Venza or if it has all four doors incorporating the smart keyless entry? Or do you have to unlock via the driver’s door before opening a rear passenger door? Already disappointed with Toyota for not including a second button on the rear hatch that closes and locks all the doors at the same time, again, just like the Venza. Not a deal breaker but very convenient and should, in my opinion, be provided, considering this vehicle’s price point. Cheers.

[@brianruperti]

On the PLT there is a digital mirror as well as 4 door smart key. Locking from the hatch I’ll have to check for you next time I get one in. Cheers!

[@K1600-l7f]

@@brianruperti Thanks!

[@brianruperti]

You’re welcome. But my advice, before you purchase a car, always always always ask for a copy of the spec sheet for that exact car, and a copy of the window sticker, and search for the features you need to make sure they are there. This avoids any miscommunication. For example; a car may come with a certain feature, and you were told it comes with it, however it comes in the car if the car has the “X” package. So happens the car you reserved doesn’t have the X package, and you or the sales person forgot to make sure. It’s possible, and happens as we are all still getting used to selling/buying cars that are not physically there to touch. So my advice will prevent that. 🙏🏼

[@markjacobson1285]

When it comes time for my 2021 Highlander limited AWD v6 to go away it will be V6 Pilot time