(October 10, 2022) PLANO, Texas — For the 2023 model year, Toyota says it is giving buyers even more reasons to choose the Highlander for their next vehicle, starting with an all-new engine for the gas models that offers impressive performance in a compact package. The 2023 Highlander gas models are now equipped with a new, higher-torque, high-efficiency turbocharged engine.

The 265-horsepower, 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which uses balance shafts for super-smooth performance, delivers 310 lb-ft of torque — this results in a significant 17% increase over the previous 3.5-liter V6 engine’s 263 lb-ft. Even better, the driver will feel this gain in everyday driving situations, especially when taking advantage of the Highlander’s 7- or 8-person seating and generous cargo capacity.

Just as important, fuel efficiency is also improved for this higher-torque engine with an EPA-estimate of up to 25 MPG combined. The new engine, standard across all gas grades.

The new Highlander turbo models are equipped to tow up to 5,000-pounds and include Trailer Sway Control (TSC), which uses the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to help control unwanted trailer movement. To help reduce fuel consumption and emissions, the standard Stop and Start Engine System allows the engine to shut off when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and instantly restarts when the driver’s foot lifts from the brake pedal.

Arriving at dealerships nationwide this month, the 2023 Highlander with the new turbo engine will have a starting MSRP of $36,420 and the 2023 Highlander Hybrid will have a starting MSRP of $40,220. Those prices do not include destination charge

The 2023 Highlander turbo models get a grip on just about any road with a choice of FWD or two different available AWD systems. For the Highlander Gas L, LE and XLE models, the optional AWD system can send up to 50% of available torque to the rear wheels to help counter wheel slip when necessary.

The Highlander XSE, Limited and Platinum turbo models step up to a more performance-minded system, Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Drive Mode Select and Driveline Disconnect. In addition to governing torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, this advanced system uses special couplings to actively manage torque distribution between the left and right rear wheels.



For even more control for the gas all-wheel drive iteration, Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is also available. When AWD is not needed, such as in steady highway cruising, rear Driveline Disconnect automatically disengages drive to the rear wheels and stops the propeller shaft’s rotation, helping to reduce fuel consumption. The system seamlessly re-engages when AWD is needed to handle road conditions.

Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD doesn’t simply react to wheel slippage. Rather, a sophisticated AWD Integrated Management (AIM) system manages Electric Power Steering (EPS), throttle control, transmission shift control and drive torque distribution to continually help optimize handling.

Using the Multi-Terrain Select control dial on the console, the driver can maximize traction for prevailing conditions. Mud & Sand mode works well for beach driving, while Rock & Dirt mode optimizes AWD traction for trails. The driver can monitor, in real time, torque allocation and slip control on the Multi-Information Display (MID).