The 2023 Toyota Highlander SUV is Going from a V6 to an I4

Engines are getting smaller, while vehicles are getting bigger. The 2023 Toyota Highlander is a three-row SUV with an inline-four.

The new turbocharged engine of this Toyota SUV replaces the outgoing V6 model we’re used to. The new engine is a 2.4-liter model that pumps out 265 horsepower. While that number is smaller than the V6, the torque is more significant, which helps with acceleration and carrying your family where you want to go. Let’s see what else this new powertrain has to offer.

Something Greater, Something Less, and Something the Same

The new version of the Highlander will go on sale later this year. The powertrain is one of the most exciting aspects of what you’ll see in this SUV. Toyota seems to be phasing out all of its naturally aspirated V6 engines favor of turbocharged four-cylinder models. This new powertrain offers 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque. This is a decrease of 30 horsepower than the outgoing V6 but a 46 lb-ft of torque increase. That extra torque could offer this SUV better acceleration and towing numbers, but the powertrain change will not change the fuel mileage.

The Unchanged Parts Leave Questions for this Toyota SUV

If the fuel economy numbers aren’t changed for the 2023 Toyota Highlander, what else is not changing related to the powertrain? The answer is the tow rating. The current Highlander tows up to 5,000 pounds, and the new one will. So far, the change to a smaller engine only offers one benefit: lower weight. Of course, there’s a benefit for Toyota with less material to make the new engine. Still, overall, you probably won’t notice much difference between the outgoing V6 and the incoming turbo-four.

Are There Other Changes for the New 2023 Highlander?

Of course, we see more changes for this SUV. A new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is coming for the Limited and Platinum models. This SUV also receives a set of power-folding mirrors standards on every trim level. The XLE and XSE versions will have a power liftgate, and the wireless smartphone charger will be placed where it’s more convenient for the driver. You’ll find a new Cypress color that you can opt for when you want a new exterior paint color, and the inside has some sight trim changes as well.
Overall, the upgrades to the Highlander are pretty basic and offer us an SUV that has more modern qualities to make it the vehicle you’ll love to drive.

What if You Want a V6 Engine in Your Highlander?

You’ll only find a V6 engine in the Toyota Highlander if you select one of the remaining 2022 versions. While the 2023 model isn’t on sale at dealerships yet, it will be soon, and then the V6 is gone for good. The current Highlander delivers an impressive package of features, driving qualities, and tech to make it the vehicle you want to drive.

What Does the 2022 Highlander SUV Deliver?

If you’re looking for a high-quality SUV to drive, the Highlander checks off most of your boxes. This impressive Toyota offers a generous package of standard features, a high-quality interior, the strength of the V6 engine, an outstanding reliability record, and it’s an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ SUV. These qualities make the current Highlander a vehicle that you’re sure to enjoy driving whenever you take it out on the road.

What Features Will You Find in the 2022 Toyota Highlander?

L Trim (Base Model)

• LED headlights and taillights
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• 3-row seating
• Tri-zone automatic climate controls
• Power-adjustable driver’s seat
• Five USB ports
• Push-button starting
• 8-inch touchscreen
• Android Auto
• Apple CarPlay
• Amazon Alexa
• SiriusXM satellite radio
• Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+
  • Pre-collision system
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Full-speed adaptive cruise control
  • Lane-departure warning with steering assist
  • Automatic high beams
  • Lane tracing assist
  • Road sign assist

LE Trim

• Blind-spot monitoring
• Power liftgate
• LED fog lights

XLE Trim

• Power moonroof
• Wireless charging pad
• SofTex faux leather upholstery
• Second-row captain’s chairs with sunshades
• Heated front seats

XSE Trim

• Unique appearance package
• Sport-tuned suspension
• Ambient interior lighting
• Optional red leather seats

Limited Trim

• Leather upholstery
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• 20-inch wheels
• Heated steering wheel
• JBL premium audio system
• Hands-free power liftgate
• Navigation system

Platinum Trim

• Panoramic moonroof
• Adaptive front lighting system
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Head-up display
• Heated second-row seats

The 2022 Toyota Highlander also comes with some excellent options. One that’s offered on every trim is AWD. You can also enjoy a Multi-Terrain Select system that brings Mud/Sand and Dirt/Rock driving modes to your drive. The XLE and XSE models can be had with an optional navigation system, and the top trims are upgradable with a 12.3-inch infotainment system and a 360-degree camera system.

One Powertrain Does it All

The current Highlander only has one powertrain: the 3.5-liter V6 engine attached to an eight-speed automatic transmission. With this setup, you’ll have 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, 295 horsepower, and 263 lb-ft of torque. Fuel mileage reaches 21 city/29 hwy mpg in FWD models while AWD versions return 20 city/27 hwy mpg for the drive. The new four-cylinder layout is replacing the powertrain for this venerable SUV that you’ll want to drive.

Which Highlander Will You Drive?

If you know you’re going to buy a Toyota Highlander, you have a few options this year. Choose the 2022 model, and you’ll experience the power of the naturally aspirated V6, or select the 2023 version and let the new turbocharged inline-four give you the energy you want. Considering the fuel economy and tow ratings aren’t any different, this decision will come down to preference and price.

Head over to your local Toyota dealer and learn more about the new Highlander and the outgoing model to figure out which one you’ll drive when it’s time to hit the road.