For the 2023 model year, Toyota 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.
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, is also more environmentally conscious, with more than a 50% reduction in NOx and NMOG compared to the outgoing V6 engine.
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.
Available All-Wheel Drive
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).
2023 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid Updates
Updates for Highlander go beyond the new engine and offer larger multimedia screens and other amenities for greater value across all grades and powertrains. Buyers want larger, more versatile multimedia screens, and the Highlander delivers. In addition to the JBL® Premium Audio System with 11 speakers as carryover from 2022, the Limited and Platinum grades now have two 12.3-inch screens as standard; one Multi-Information Display (MID) screen and one multimedia screen. Just as important to users, content can now occupy the full 12.3-inch, glare-reducing optically bonded screen. On both grades, a second new 12.3” Full Digital Instrument Cluster screen replaces the former 7-inch TFT, with four different visual modes for a personalized touch: Casual, Smart, Tough and Sporty mode. So now, these premium Highlander grades provide the most screen area than previous generation Highlander models.
The 12.3-inch audio multimedia touchscreen will also be optional for the XLE and sporty XSE grades, which have an 8-inch screen as standard. These two grades continue to use the 7-inch MID gauge cluster screen. On the L and LE grades, this same 7-inch MID replaces the 4.2-inch MID for enhanced usability. The 12.3-inch audio multimedia touchscreen is also now standard for the Hybrid Bronze Edition.
For added convenience and value, the Limited and Platinum grades (both gas and hybrid) now come standard with power folding exterior mirrors for 2023, a real help for entering and exiting the home. And, inside the 2023 Highlander, the available wireless charging feature just got better for front-seat passengers. In an effort to be more accessible, Toyota moved the Qi-compatible wireless charger from the center console box to a more convenient location in the center dashboard shelf below the audio multimedia touchscreen..
As icing on the proverbial cake, the 2023 Highlander adds an elegant new Cypress green exterior color.
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