Add the 2023 Toyota Highlander to the list of models (it should read SUV) that ditches their V6 engine in favor of a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Indeed, Toyota is dropping its valiant 3.5-liter block for a 2.4-liter mill, which has already begun its career with Lexus, precisely in the service of the new 2022 NX.
The new body offers 265 horsepower, 30 less than the V6. On the other hand, its torque is a jump of 46 lb-ft of torque (for 310), which should translate into a similar benefit in terms of performance. The company announces the same average fuel consumption rating for the model with its new engine, ie 9.8 liters per 100 kilometers, as well as the same towing capacity at 5,000 pounds.
Why this change then? Of course, we’ll ask Toyota when the opportunity arises, but the company gives us a hint in the press release it shared: “The new engine, standard on all gasoline models, is also more environmentally friendly with a reduction of more than 50% in NOx and NMOG emissions, as well as an improvement in CO2 emissions compared to the outgoing V6 engine. »
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Highlander’s new turbo engine
The new mill will work hand in hand with an eight-speed automatic transmission. As for all-wheel drive, two versions will be served depending on the version (one system for the LE and XLE liveries, another for the XSE, Limited and Platinum versions). We will have the chance to come back to it during a test drive of the vehicle.
Otherwise, a few improvements are made here and there. We should mention the integration of a new instrument cluster with digital display on a 12.3-inch screen, offered as an option with the Limited and Platinum trim levels. Power folding mirrors are now standard on all models and XLE and XSE trims now benefit from a power-deployable tailgate. The pad for wireless cell phone charging has also been moved to a more user-friendly location on the console.
Toyota’s new multimedia system is also standard with every model. For the rest, we will have to see how the Highlander will behave with its new mill.
The hybrid version is still offered, it should be noted.
Toyota Highlander 2023, profile
Toyota Highlander 2023, multimedia screen
