What are the differences between the front faces of the 2017 and 2015 Highlander models?

[Genevieve]

The differences between the front faces of the 2017 and 2015 Highlander models are as follows: 1. Exterior: The 2017 Highlander features an inverted trapezoidal grille design with a larger area, paired with sleek headlights, giving it a more muscular appearance. 2. Interior: The 2017 Toyota Highlander has significantly improved interior craftsmanship, featuring a three-spoke steering wheel design and a small LCD screen on the center console. The center console also incorporates extensive silver chrome accents and integrates Apple CarPlay or Android Auto systems. 3. Safety Features: The 2017 Highlander is equipped with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Additionally, except for the LE and LE Plus versions, it includes a blind spot warning system alongside the cross-traffic alert.

[BraxtonLee]

I previously drove a 2015 Highlander and later tried the 2017 model—the front-end differences were quite noticeable. The 2017 model's grille is significantly larger than the 2015's, wider and more aggressive, with a sharper design, while the 2015's grille is narrower and more conventional, lacking some visual impact. The headlights also saw major changes: the 2017 version features sleeker, more elongated lines with LED daytime running lights, making them strikingly bright at night, whereas the 2015's headlights are rounder and more conservative, primarily using traditional halogen bulbs. The bumper was redesigned too—the 2017 model adjusted the fog light area and air intake placement, giving the front end a sportier, more modern look, while the 2015 appears plainer. These updates weren't just cosmetic; they also slightly improved aerodynamics, reducing drag at high speeds. As a longtime owner, I think the 2017 refresh made the car look more stylish and potentially boosted resale value, but the core functionality remains similar—both models drive solidly.

[SanMarley]

I carefully examined the differences between the front facades of these two generations of Highlanders at the auto show. At first glance, the grille styles are distinct—the 2015 model features a moderately sized, relatively understated grille, while the 2017 version expands to nearly dominate the entire front, with sharp angles delivering a stronger visual impact. The headlight redesign is also notable, with the 2017 model incorporating LED elements and a more aggressive shape, somewhat reminiscent of Toyota's family design language at the time. In contrast, the 2015 headlights have a softer, more utilitarian profile but lack standout features. The lower bumper area was similarly updated, with the 2017 fog lights adopting a cleaner design, paired with a new intake layout that gives the entire front end a more youthful and dynamic appearance. These subtle changes in details not only enhance aesthetics but also reflect technological advancements, such as potentially improved lighting efficiency. For someone like me who keeps an eye on trends, the 2017 front fascia clearly represents a significant evolutionary step—it's even something to show off at gatherings for that fresh appeal.

[DelJuliet]

When choosing a car, I compared the front ends of the 2015 and 2017 Highlander models. The 2017 version has a noticeably larger grille, giving it a more imposing presence, while the 2015 model appears more modest and conventional. The headlight designs also differ—the 2017 version features a more modern look with LED elements, whereas the 2015 version has a rounded, traditional design. The bumper was updated too, with the 2017 model's fog light area sporting a sleeker new shape. However, in practical driving conditions, the lighting differences don’t significantly impact safety, as both provide ample brightness. Overall, the front-end updates make the 2017 model look fresher and more dynamic, while the 2015 version remains reliable and durable—a solid choice for families, with minor changes that don’t affect daily functionality.

[DelColeman]

The front face of the 2017 Highlander is absolutely stunning! The grille is super large and cool, ten times more handsome than the small grille of the 2015 model. The headlight design is much sharper, with added LED decorations that shine brightly, while the 2015 model's lights look too old-fashioned. The bumper and fog lights have also been redesigned, making the 2017 front face full of dynamism and definitely eye-catching on the road, completely outshining the more plain-looking 2015 model. Young people love this updated design for being trendier and more exciting.

[Jenkins]

From a repair perspective, the front-end components of the 2015 and 2017 Highlander models are incompatible. The grilles are completely different in design and size, with the 2017 version being significantly enlarged, so replacement parts must match the specific year. The headlight contours became more elongated in the 2017 model, possibly using additional mounting points, while the 2015 version features rounder shapes with simpler connections. Changes to the lower bumper affect fog light positioning, requiring model-specific parts to avoid incorrect installation. Though subtle, these design differences may create inconveniences and increase costs during maintenance or modifications. As a user, part availability should be considered.