Sometimes, a popular SUV can still fall short of expectations. That isn’t the case with the 2023 Toyota Highlander, which earned high marks after the first three months of ownership. What did this reliable sport utility do well, and did this Toyota fall short in any areas?

Is the 2023 Toyota Highlander reliable?

J.D. Power gave the 2023 Toyota Highlander high marks for reliability and quality. Since the Highlander has a long history of reliability following it, there is good reason to believe the 2023 Toyota Highlander will remain a dependable vehicle. J.D. Power gets its information from actual owners and drivers of the Highlander, who had plenty of positive things to say about the SUV.

After 90 days of ownership, J.D. Power surveyed Highlander drivers to see the biggest positives. The fuel economy for the 2023 Highlander was a highlight, and most drivers noted better-than-average fuel economy. Toyota offers the Highlander in many different trim levels for this year, ranging from 21 mpg in the city all the way up to 36 mpg in the city with the hybrid. Fuel economy for the highway went from 28 mpg up to 35.

The Highlander Hybrid is one of the more popular options, offering the same reliability as the gasoline version but added fuel economy.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander earned high scores for safety

Even though infotainment systems are usually a source of annoyance for drivers, the 2023 Highlander navigation system was a highlight. Drivers noted that the navigation system was easy to use, and the 12.3-inch screen was large enough to see all the settings. Toyota included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

It also offers three rows of seating, making it suitable for larger families. Add to that the 5,000-pound towing capacity, and the Toyota SUV makes a well-rounded option. The driving experience score was 80, which is still above average for the segment. This means the Highlander earned good marks on comfort, functionality, safety, and technology.

Some of the included systems on Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 are Pre-Collision System With Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Alert With Steering Assist. Lane Tracing Assist and Road Sign Assist also make driving easier.

Don’t overlook the Highlander’s smooth engine

Finally, drivers praised the smooth engine that powered the Toyota Highlander. A 2.4L turbo four-cylinder engine gets 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. That works out to about 25 mpg combined, enough for most daily driving situations. While it isn’t the most powerful engine on the market, it offers a smooth and quiet ride.

Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is an option. With so many trim levels and configurations, it makes sense the Highlander is a people-pleaser. The stamp of approval from J.D. Power is a big deal, and this Toyota SUV makes it look easy. If you are looking for a used option, check out some of the best used Highlander years for suggestions.