The Toyota Highlander has been a classically committed vehicle towards the V-6 engine. But it seems like the time for that engine is time to evaporate in place of something more subtle. Specifically, the 2.4-liter inline-four. It can create about 265 horsepower and about 309 pound-feet of torque. In specific, that’s about less than 30 horsepower from what the V-6 engine would be with an increase of about 46 pound-feet of torque. The four-cylinder can achieve just as much with the same mpg of a kind towards the V-6 as well, regarding EPA ratings.
The gas engine can pair well with an eight-speed automatic transmission, for the front or all-wheel-drive. Of course, the Lexus NX350 utilizes an engine in such a strength that is quite revolutionary. And that equates to the Toyota model as well for the fact that it can create about 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque.
However, for the Highlander, the capacity won’t change at about 5000 pounds. There is a hybrid powertrain that isn’t likely to shift for the upcoming model year. It can likely achieve the EPA ratings up to 36 mpg for the front-wheel-drive. Knowing that, carbuyers are certain to appreciate the Toyota Highlander. Other updates involve a new digital gauge with a 12.3-inch cluster, found on the Platinum trim and Limited trim levels. Additionally, the power folding mirrors come standard on all the models. Meanwhile, the XLE and the XSE trims maintain a power liftgate. The wireless smartphone charger has been relocated to a better spot on the dashboard. Additionally, the color you want to look out for on the exterior is Cypress.
What else is fresh?
The new engine is just as efficient as the outgoing V6 at 24 mpg combined, while reducing NOx, NMOG, and CO2 emissions. The new non-hybrid Highlander can now tow up to 5,000 pounds, and features Toyota’s Trailer Sway Control system.
Front-wheel drive is standard, but there are two different AWD systems available. L, LE, and XLE trims offer an AWD system that can send 50 percent of torque to the rear wheels for limited slip situations. The sportier XSE, Limited and Platinum models get an upgraded AWD setup with torque vectoring, drive mode selection, and driveline disconnect, which can disengage the rear wheels to drive in a front-drive mode for greater fuel economy when AWD isn’t needed.
