Hey everyone, let's dive into the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum! This SUV is a popular choice for families and anyone needing a reliable, spacious, and feature-packed vehicle. We'll be taking a deep dive into what makes the Platinum trim level stand out, covering everything from its performance and features to its interior comfort and overall value. Get ready for a thorough breakdown!

Unveiling the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum

So, what's the buzz around the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum? Well, it’s the top-of-the-line trim, meaning you get all the bells and whistles Toyota has to offer. This isn't just about a fancy badge, though. The Platinum trim significantly enhances the driving experience, comfort, and overall appeal of an already excellent SUV. It caters to those who want the best of the best, with a focus on luxury, advanced technology, and a premium feel. Think of it as the luxury apartment of the Highlander world, complete with all the amenities. This review will explore all the facets that make the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum such a compelling choice in the competitive SUV market, comparing features to help you determine if it's the right vehicle for you.

Starting with the basics, the Highlander Platinum is built on the same solid foundation as other Highlander trims but offers a host of upgrades. These upgrades include premium materials, advanced technology, and exclusive design elements. Under the hood, you’ll find the same reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine as other trims, producing a robust 295 horsepower. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and responsive performance. The Highlander Platinum also comes standard with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and control in various driving conditions, whether you're navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails. The exterior design boasts a sleek and modern look, with a bold front grille, stylish LED headlights, and elegant lines. Inside, the Platinum trim elevates the experience with luxurious features, such as premium leather upholstery, a panoramic moonroof, and advanced technology that enhances comfort and convenience. When considering the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum, you're not just buying an SUV; you're investing in a sophisticated and reliable vehicle that caters to all your needs, from daily commutes to family adventures.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum distinguishes itself through a range of upgrades that deliver a truly premium experience. The exterior design receives some exclusive touches, such as a unique front grille and stylish alloy wheels, which set it apart from other trims. Inside, the Platinum trim offers premium leather-trimmed seats, including a driver's seat with memory settings for personalized comfort. Advanced technology features are abundant, with a large touchscreen infotainment system, a premium JBL sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features that enhance safety and convenience. The Platinum trim also provides a panoramic moonroof, offering an open and airy feel, along with a heads-up display that projects important driving information onto the windshield. Overall, these upgrades elevate the Highlander Platinum to a level of luxury and sophistication that caters to drivers and passengers alike. The 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum is more than just a means of transportation; it's a statement of style and comfort, designed to enhance every journey. The Highlander Platinum also includes a host of safety features, such as Toyota Safety Sense, which provides peace of mind on the road. The inclusion of these features demonstrates Toyota’s commitment to safety and innovation.

Performance and Driving Experience of the Highlander Platinum

Alright, let’s talk about how the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum actually performs on the road. The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. Acceleration is brisk, and the eight-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless gear changes. Whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets, the Highlander Platinum offers plenty of power. The all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence, especially in adverse weather conditions. The steering feels well-weighted, and the suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The Highlander Platinum isn't a sports car, but it offers a composed and enjoyable driving experience suitable for daily use and long-distance journeys.

The driving dynamics are further enhanced by a suite of advanced features. The Highlander Platinum comes equipped with Toyota's Safety Sense suite, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. These features not only enhance safety but also provide a more relaxed driving experience. The Platinum trim's all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, and the vehicle handles well in various driving conditions. Furthermore, the Highlander Platinum is surprisingly agile for its size, making it easy to maneuver in tight spots. When you're behind the wheel, you'll find the driving experience to be refined and enjoyable, making it a joy to pilot. The combination of power, handling, and safety features makes the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum a top performer in its class.

Fuel efficiency is another important consideration. The Highlander Platinum delivers respectable fuel economy figures for its class. The EPA estimates are around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, ensuring that it is relatively efficient, especially for a vehicle of its size. When driving the Highlander Platinum, you'll be impressed by the smooth power delivery. The engine provides more than enough power for merging onto the highway and accelerating when needed. The transmission shifts seamlessly, contributing to the overall refined feel. The all-wheel-drive system works effectively to provide grip, and the suspension does a great job of absorbing bumps, making for a smooth and comfortable ride. The 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum offers a balance of performance, efficiency, and comfort that will make every journey a pleasant experience.

Interior Comfort and Design

Let’s step inside and explore the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum's interior. This is where the Platinum trim truly shines. The cabin is filled with premium materials, including supple leather upholstery and soft-touch surfaces. The seats are supportive and comfortable, especially on long drives. The Platinum trim offers exclusive design elements, such as wood-grain trim and ambient lighting, which elevate the interior's overall aesthetic appeal. The layout of the dashboard and center console is clean and user-friendly, and the infotainment system is intuitive and easy to navigate. The panoramic moonroof floods the cabin with natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Overall, the interior of the Highlander Platinum provides a luxurious and inviting environment that enhances the driving experience.

Beyond the luxurious materials, the interior offers practicality. The 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum provides ample space for passengers in all three rows, making it perfect for families. The second-row seats slide and recline, providing added flexibility and comfort, and the third row is surprisingly spacious for an SUV of this size. Cargo space is also generous, with plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or any gear you might need. The Platinum trim’s attention to detail is evident in the thoughtful design of the interior, from the placement of the controls to the inclusion of convenient features like multiple USB ports and wireless charging. The interior also features excellent sound insulation, providing a quiet and serene environment, allowing passengers to enjoy the premium JBL sound system. The Highlander Platinum's interior is more than just a comfortable space; it's a carefully crafted environment designed to make every journey as enjoyable as possible. The blend of luxury, comfort, and practicality makes the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum a standout in the mid-size SUV segment.

Inside the Highlander Platinum, you'll be greeted by an oasis of comfort and style. The leather-trimmed seats are a highlight, offering both comfort and elegance. The front seats are heated and ventilated, providing personalized climate control for the driver and front passenger. The second-row seats are also heated, ensuring that passengers in the back can enjoy a comfortable ride. The Platinum trim's panoramic moonroof provides a breathtaking view of the sky, adding to the feeling of spaciousness. The interior design features premium materials, such as wood-grain trim and soft-touch surfaces, which create a luxurious atmosphere. The dashboard and center console are thoughtfully designed, with intuitive controls and a large touchscreen infotainment system. The spacious cabin provides ample legroom and headroom in all three rows, making it ideal for families. The 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum offers a perfect blend of luxury and practicality, making it a great choice for those seeking a premium SUV experience.

Technology and Features

Let's get into the tech! The 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum is loaded with advanced technology features. The infotainment system is a standout, featuring a large touchscreen display, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium JBL sound system. The Platinum trim also comes with a digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and a panoramic view monitor. These features provide a seamless and connected driving experience. Safety is a top priority, and the Highlander Platinum is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and blind-spot monitoring. Other notable features include a wireless smartphone charging pad, multiple USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, making it easy to stay connected on the go.

One of the standout technological advancements in the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum is its advanced driver-assistance systems. Toyota Safety Sense is comprehensive, including features designed to enhance safety and convenience. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front, making highway driving more relaxed. Lane departure alert helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane, while blind-spot monitoring alerts the driver to vehicles in adjacent lanes. The Platinum trim also includes a panoramic view monitor, which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a large touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The premium JBL sound system offers exceptional audio quality, making every journey more enjoyable. The combination of advanced safety features, connectivity options, and premium audio system makes the Highlander Platinum a technologically advanced SUV. The abundance of technology features makes the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum a smart choice for those who want to stay connected and safe on the road.

The infotainment system in the Highlander Platinum is intuitive and easy to use. The large touchscreen display is responsive and offers clear graphics. The system integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to easily access your favorite apps, music, and navigation tools. The premium JBL sound system delivers exceptional audio quality, providing a rich and immersive listening experience. The Platinum trim's digital instrument cluster provides important driving information at a glance. The head-up display projects key data onto the windshield, keeping the driver's attention focused on the road. The inclusion of a wireless smartphone charging pad and multiple USB ports ensures that everyone can stay connected and keep their devices charged. The 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum offers a perfect blend of technology and convenience, making every journey a pleasure.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount, and the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. These features are designed to enhance safety and prevent accidents. The Highlander Platinum also includes a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, which helps to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alert you to potential hazards. The Platinum trim also features a panoramic view monitor, providing a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings. In addition to these advanced safety features, the Highlander Platinum is equipped with a full complement of airbags, electronic stability control, and traction control. The Highlander Platinum has received excellent safety ratings from both the IIHS and the NHTSA, further demonstrating its commitment to safety. With its comprehensive array of safety features, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum provides peace of mind on every journey, making it a safe and reliable choice for families.

Toyota's commitment to safety is evident in the features that are included in the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum. The Toyota Safety Sense suite is designed to help prevent accidents. The pre-collision system with pedestrian detection can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes. Lane departure alert with steering assist helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. Dynamic radar cruise control maintains a safe distance from the car ahead. The Highlander Platinum’s blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert provides additional protection. The inclusion of these features helps to prevent accidents and protect the occupants of the vehicle. In addition to the safety features, the Highlander Platinum has a strong safety structure. The vehicle is designed to provide maximum protection in the event of a collision. The comprehensive safety features and strong safety structure make the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum a top choice for those looking for a safe and reliable SUV.

Inside, the safety features continue to impress. The Platinum trim offers a range of features designed to protect the occupants in the event of a collision. The Highlander Platinum includes a full complement of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. The vehicle’s electronic stability control and traction control systems work to keep the vehicle stable and prevent skidding. These systems can intervene to prevent loss of control in challenging driving conditions. Overall, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum offers a robust and comprehensive safety package, making it a great choice for families.

Value and Competition

Okay, let's talk about value. The 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum is positioned at the top of the Highlander lineup, so it comes with a higher price tag. However, considering all the features, technology, and luxury it offers, the Platinum trim provides excellent value for money. When compared to its competitors, such as the Honda Pilot Elite, Ford Explorer Platinum, and Mazda CX-9 Signature, the Highlander Platinum holds its own. It offers a strong combination of reliability, performance, and features, and it often provides a more user-friendly experience. Although the price might seem high, the long-term reliability and resale value of the Toyota brand help to offset the initial cost.

Comparing the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum with its competitors, you will find that the Highlander Platinum offers a strong value proposition. The Platinum trim is equipped with a wide array of premium features that are either not available or cost extra in other models. The Highlander’s reliability and strong resale value also contribute to its overall value. While other SUVs may offer similar features, the Highlander's combination of performance, technology, and comfort often provides a more well-rounded experience. The Highlander Platinum’s safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense, are comprehensive. It offers a high level of protection and peace of mind on the road. The combination of all these factors makes the Highlander Platinum a smart choice. It is a value-packed option in the mid-size SUV segment.

When considering the competition, the Highlander Platinum stands out. The Honda Pilot Elite, for example, is a strong competitor, but it may not offer the same level of luxury and advanced technology. The Ford Explorer Platinum offers a similar level of features. However, it may not match Toyota's reputation for reliability. The Mazda CX-9 Signature is a stylish and sporty option. However, it may offer less interior space. Overall, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum provides an excellent balance of features, performance, and value. This makes it a top contender in the mid-size SUV market. The long-term reliability and strong resale value make it an even more attractive option.

Pros and Cons

Let’s summarize with some pros and cons.

Pros:

• Luxury and Comfort: Premium interior materials and features.
• Advanced Technology: Loaded with tech, including a large touchscreen and advanced driver-assistance systems.
• Reliability: Toyota's reputation for reliability is well-known.
• Safety: Excellent safety ratings and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
• Spacious Interior: Ample room for passengers and cargo.

Cons:

• Price: The Platinum trim is the most expensive.
• Fuel Economy: While reasonable, some competitors may offer slightly better fuel economy.
• Sporty Driving Experience: Not as sporty as some competitors.

Conclusion

So, is the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum worth it? For those seeking a luxurious, reliable, and feature-packed SUV, the answer is a resounding yes! The Platinum trim offers a truly premium experience, with a combination of comfort, technology, and safety that is hard to beat. If you’re in the market for a mid-size SUV and you value the best of everything, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum should be at the top of your list. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a well-rounded and dependable vehicle. And that’s it, guys! Hope this deep dive helps you make an informed decision.