A look at the new 2023 Toyota Highlander's new multimedia system

The Toyota Highlander is already a segment leader; fantastic interior space, great fuel-efficient hybrid and gas powertrains, handsome looks – it has it all.

That doesn’t mean there wasn’t room for improvement, however, and for 2023 Toyota has given the Highlander a big update when it comes to its multimedia system.

The Highlander’s latest Toyota Multimedia system is faster than it was before, has an optional larger 14-inch glare-reducing screen, more app compatibility and for the first time, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The ease-of-use improvements even reach the wireless charge pad, which has been moved to a more easily reachable location for both driver and passenger.

In addition to the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apps, Highlander users now have access to a number of connected services that make your time behind the wheel that much easier.

The first of these comes in the form of “Hey Toyota” voice activation, which allows for your navigation (whose map can be pinched and spun, just like on your smartphone), your climate control and even your seat warmers to be controlled by a simple voice command. If you’d rather speak with a real person, Toyota’s Destination Assist tech can connect you with a live agent 24/7 so you know what amenities you can expect when you arrive at your destination.

The Highlander’s Remote Connect app is also an invaluable tool, as it allows you to start your vehicle from outside, make sure the in-car temp is ready as you step in and will even tell you where you’ve last parked. No more spending a half hour trying to find your Highlander in a busy mall parking lot during the holidays!

Add the stolen vehicle locator and roadside assistance service provided by the Safety Connect tool, and you have a multimedia system that is about so much more than streaming MP3s – though it can do that too, of course!