Toyota, more than other automakers, still likes to rely on naturally aspirated engines. However, its good old 3.5-liter V6 begins to disappear with the Highlander.
For the 2023 model year, the Japanese midsize SUV does indeed replace it with a new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, shared with the Lexus NX 350. Power is down from 295 to 265 horsepower, but the torque jumps from 263 to 310 lb-ft.
Toyota promises that the effect will be felt when accelerating and especially when the vehicle is loaded with passengers and luggage. In addition, although official fuel consumption ratings in Canada are yet to come, the average would drop from 10.3 to 9.8 L/100 km, according to Toyota, and certain polluting emissions would be reduced by up to 50%.
Photo: Toyota
Trailer or boat owners, rest assured: the maximum towing capacity remains at 5,000 pounds. As for the hybrid Highlander, nothing changes on its side. It continues to generate 243 horsepower, burn 6.7 L/100 km on average (in theory) and tow up to 3,500 pounds.
What else for 2023?
The Toyota Highlander gets other changes for 2023. First, Toyota’s new ultra-modern and fast infotainment system, first seen in the 2022 Tundra, makes its appearance here. It includes an intelligent voice assistant, several cloud services, remote software updates and the ability to pair two phones via Bluetooth. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is wireless.
Photo: Toyota
On Limited and Platinum trims, the multimedia system is now displayed across the entire surface of the central 12.3-inch screen, while a second 12.3-inch screen replaces the previous 7-inch TFT display behind the wheel. Four different modes allow you to vary the presentation.
An 8-inch touchscreen is standard in other trims. In addition, the wireless charging tray for compatible phones has been moved from the center console to the small shelf on the dashboard for easier access.
Photo: Toyota
On the outside, the XLE and XSE versions in turn adopt an assisted tailgate that can be opened or closed simply by sweeping your foot under the bumper. The second now sits on exclusive 20-inch wheels with an all-black finish. Finally, a new body color called Cypress is added to the palette and the Bronze Edition hybrid model is back for a second year.
Pricing for the 2023 Toyota Highlander will be announced closer to its Canadian on-sale date this fall.