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Toyota's sexed-up Highlander XSE debuts at the Chicago Auto Show

For 2021, the Japanese automaker has made this family-hauler more aggressive looking and even better to drive.

Craig Cole
Craig brought 15 years of automotive journalism experience to the Cars team. A lifelong resident of Michigan, he's as happy with a wrench or welding gun in hand as he is in front of the camera or behind a keyboard. When not hosting videos or cranking out features and reviews, he's probably out in the garage working on one of his project cars. He's fully restored a 1936 Ford V8 sedan and then turned to resurrecting another flathead-powered relic, a '51 Ford Crestliner. Craig has been a proud member of the Automotive Press Association (APA) and the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA).
Craig Cole
2021 Toyota Highlander XSE
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This is the new Toyota Highlander XSE, a sportier take on the automaker's popular three-row crossover.

2021 Toyota Highlander XSE
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Even though it's sportier, this utility vehicle is still plenty functional, with three rows of seats.

2021 Toyota Highlander XSE
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Special rocker-panel trim and machine-faced 20-inch wheels give this vehicle an even more aggressive look.

2021 Toyota Highlander XSE
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The Highlander XSE looks more planted than standard models.

2021 Toyota Highlander XSE
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What do you think of that front end?

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There's plenty of space in the second row.

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XSE models are fitted with chrome-plated dual-exhaust tips.

2021 Toyota Highlander XSE
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Of course, there's a badge on the back if you happen to forget what you're driving.

2021 Toyota Highlander XSE
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For more images of the 2021 Toyota Highlander XSE, keep clicking through this gallery.

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