2023 Toyota Highlander – What’s under the Highlander’s Hood?

For the tech Gurus and new car lovers, we have put together the newly revealed features of the New Toyota highlander set to be released in 2023. Just to keep our visitors and readers up to date, the article will contain all you should expect in the new Toyota Highlander. This new generation Highlander features a few changes to the highlander lineup.

2023 Toyota Highlander

2023 Toyota Highlander

For 2023, Toyota’s ultra-popular three-row Highlander SUV gets a new turbocharged engine to replace the V6 powering the 2008 Highlander. The 2023 Toyota Highlander will use the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that powers the Lexus NX 350; it delivers strong acceleration in the Lexus, and we expect it to look just as solid under the Highlander’s hood.

But the powertrain isn’t the only new addition to the 2023 Highlander; A host of new features and technology updates are scattered across the lineup. Here’s everything to prepare for a renewed Highlander.

What’s under the Highlander’s Hood?

The new 2.4-liter turbocharged engine produces 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque. Compare that to the old 295 hp, 263 lb-ft V6, and you’ll see the turbo four has less horsepower but more torque. While Toyota has yet to specify an acceleration time, we expect the 2023 Highlander’s 0-60 mph won’t stray too far from the previous model’s 7.5 seconds.

Don’t expect fuel economy to also be significantly different: Toyota estimates that the new powertrain will give the Highlander an estimated combined fuel economy of 24 mpg once EPA approves. That’s the same number achieved by the current front-wheel-drive Highlander. Toyota says the four-cylinder’s NOx and CO2 emissions have been reduced compared to the old V6, but based on the estimated horsepower and fuel economy figures, it’s hard to see just how much the new engine is actually useful. We’ll have to wait until we’re behind the wheel before drawing any firm conclusions.

How is the Interior of the Highlander?

Changes to the 2023 Highlander aren’t limited to the powertrain. The digital information display on the Limited and Platinum models increases from 7 inches to 12.3 inches, matching the size of the central touch screen of these versions. The 12.3-inch touchscreen is now optional on the XLE and XSE, allowing price-conscious customers to continue enjoying the benefits of the updated system.

These models also have hands-free elevator doors which were standard on the more expensive levels. Limited and Platinum trims get new folding mirrors and the wireless charger moves under the center armrest under the center stand. Finally, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are finally coming to the Highlander and are included as standard equipment.

Since the Highlander hasn’t changed in dimension, the 2023 Highlander should have as much room for passengers and cargo as last year’s model. That means plenty of headroom and legroom in the first and second rows for most sized adults. However, the Highlander’s third row is really only suitable for children. Rivals like Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Volkswagen Atlas are much more spacious in both the third row and the trunk.

Changes may be minimal for the 2023 Toyota Highlander, which means if you see a good price on the 2022 model, you won’t miss a lot of features.

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