What is the XLE package on a Highlander?

The XLE is the Highlander’s mid-range trim, designed to add comfort, technology, and safety features beyond the base model while staying below the top-tier Limited. In short, it offers a balanced mix of refinement and value.

In more detail, the XLE positions itself between the base LE and the Limited, typically including interior upgrades, practical tech, and driver-assistance features. Depending on the model year and market, the XLE can include SofTex seating, a power driver's seat, a sunroof, enhanced infotainment, a power liftgate, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ with features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. Exact equipment can vary by year, so it’s important to check the window sticker for your specific vehicle.

Where the XLE fits in the Highlander lineup

The Highlander lineup generally progresses from L or LE up to XLE, then Limited and Platinum. The XLE sits above the LE in comfort and technology, but doesn’t reach the premium touches and features found in Limited. For many buyers, the XLE offers a compelling balance of interior quality, safety tech, and price.

What XLE includes (standard features)

Here is a representative snapshot of features commonly associated with the XLE trim. Exact items can vary by model year and regional market, so verify the specifications for your specific vehicle.

• SofTex synthetic leather seating (with leather seating available on certain options or years)


• 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat (with lumbar support)


• Dual-zone automatic climate control


• Power tilt/slide moonroof


• Smart Key System with push-button start


• Infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (display size varies by year; some years upgrade to a larger screen)


• 18-inch alloy wheels


• LED headlights with daytime running lights (fog lights on select models/years)


• Power liftgate for rear cargo access


• Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ driver-assistance suite (includes features such as pre-collision with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane tracing assist)


• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert


• Available all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations

Taken together, these features distinguish the XLE from the base model and place it in the middle of the Highlander lineup in terms of comfort, convenience, and safety technology.

How the XLE differs from LE and Limited

Compared to LE

• Upgraded seating materials (SofTex) and a more comfortable driver’s seat


• Moonroof and enhanced climate-control features


• Better infotainment options and larger screens on some years


• Additional safety and convenience features such as blind-spot monitoring

These upgrades improve daily usability and interior quality, making the XLE more premium than LE without reaching the luxury-focused Limited level.

Compared to Limited

• Limited typically adds full leather seating and more premium interior finishes


• Higher-end features such as memory seats and a larger, more feature-rich display/nav system


• Often 19-inch wheels and extra refinement touches

For buyers seeking the most upscale experience, Limited remains the benchmark; the XLE offers many comforts and tech at a more approachable price point.

Pricing and availability

Prices vary by year, drivetrain, and market. In the current generation, the XLE generally sits above the base LE by several thousand dollars and below the Limited by a similar margin. All-wheel-drive versions and option packages can raise the final price. Check your local dealership or Toyota’s official site for the latest pricing and incentives.

Summary

The XLE package on a Highlander represents a practical, well-rounded middle ground. It pairs a more refined interior and a robust array of safety and tech features with sensible price and running costs, making it a popular choice for families and commuters who want comfort and capability without paying top-tier luxury prices.

What is the XLE package on the Highlander?

XLE is the value sweet spot for most families. You'll typically find heated front seats, available second-row captain's chairs, a power liftgate, and popular convenience tech—without jumping to luxury pricing. If you want comfort and practicality first, start here. XSE turns up the personality.

What's the difference between a Toyota Highlander XLE and XSE?

The main differences are that the Highlander XSE has a sportier design with a sport-tuned suspension, 20-inch wheels, and unique interior and exterior styling, while the XLE is more luxury-oriented with a standard suspension, 18-inch wheels, and a more traditional aesthetic. The XSE is exclusively a 7-passenger vehicle with captain's chairs, whereas the XLE can be configured for 8 passengers with a second-row bench seat. Performance and features on both trims are similar, with the XSE's sport-tuned suspension providing a firmer and more responsive ride.
 
This video provides a side-by-side comparison of the Highlander XSE and XLE models: 59sToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Sep 6, 2021
Performance and handling

• XSE: Features a sport-tuned suspension for a firmer, more responsive, and sportier driving feel. 
• XLE: Has a standard suspension for a more traditional and comfortable ride. 

This video compares the driving experience of the Highlander XSE and XLE: 1mToyota WorldYouTube · Aug 31, 2021
Exterior and wheels

• XSE: Includes a sportier front fascia, 20-inch black alloy wheels, black roof rails, and chrome exhaust tips.
• XLE: Has a more conventional look with 18-inch alloy wheels and body-colored roof rails. 

Interior and seating

• XSE: Offers a sportier interior design with ambient interior lighting, available two-tone red and black sport seats, and a black headliner. It comes exclusively with second-row captain's chairs for a 7-passenger capacity. 
• XLE: Comes standard with a 3-seat bench in the second row for an 8-passenger capacity, although a 7-passenger option may be available. It has a more standard dashboard design and a darker/lighter interior color scheme compared to the XSE. 

Key differences at a glance

Feature	Highlander XSE	Highlander XLE
Suspension	Sport-tuned	Standard
Wheels	20-inch alloy wheels	18-inch alloy wheels
Seating	7-passenger (captain's chairs)	8-passenger (bench seat)
Exterior styling	Sporty, aggressive front fascia	Traditional, elegant
Interior styling	Sporty with ambient lighting	Standard

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What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?

Years to avoid in the Toyota Highlander include 2003, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and technology glitches. Other problematic years to consider are 2001-2007 (engine and climate control issues) and 2016-2019 (varying issues including potential oil leaks in some models).
 
This video discusses problems with the Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2025, including paint issues: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Toyota Highlander years to avoid

• 2001–2007: Prone to engine overheating, head gasket failures, and climate control issues like AC compressor and blower motor problems. 
• 2003: A big year for issues, particularly engine oil sludge buildup and premature transmission wear, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2008: A redesigned model that experienced oil cooler line leaks, which can cause engine damage if not addressed, and lower-quality interior components. 
• 2014: A recall was issued for the second-row seat assembly that may not lock correctly into the seat track, and there were also reports of issues that might be linked to the transmission, says Clutch and Reddit users. 
• 2015: Experienced growing pains from its redesign, with various reports of growing issues, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2020: Experienced early transmission and software problems, say Clutch and Reddit users. 

You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 51sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025

Which is better, Highlander Limited or XLE?

The main differences are that the Highlander Limited includes more luxury and convenience features than the XLE, such as real leather-trimmed seats, a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and heated/ventilated front seats with a memory function. The XLE has a good set of premium features like a sunroof and heated front seats, but the Limited builds on this with additional comforts and higher-end materials.
 
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the 2023 Highlander XLE and Limited models: 59sToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Nov 22, 2022
Highlander XLE

• Seating: Standard features include SofTex synthetic leather upholstery and heated front seats. 
• Infotainment: Includes an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen. 
• Convenience: Features like a power sunroof, second-row sunshades, and a wireless charging pad are standard. 
• Driver's Seat: A 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat is standard. 

Highlander Limited

• Seating: Upgrades to real leather-trimmed seats for both front and second rows. 
• Infotainment: Features a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. 
• Convenience: Includes a hands-free power liftgate and heated, ventilated front seats with driver's seat memory function. 
• Driver's Seat: The driver's seat has a memory function, and the steering wheel is leather-wrapped and heated. 
• Interior Trim: Adds upscale touches like a faux wood-grain dash and ambient interior lighting. 
• Audio: Upgrades to an 11-speaker JBL® premium audio system. 

This video highlights the features of the 2023 Highlander XLE: 0:59KazvlogzYouTube · Jun 21, 2023