Toyota’s Techier And Turbocharged 2023 Highlander Starts At $36,420

Toyota introduced the 2023 Highlander earlier this year and now the company has announced the updated model will start at $36,420.

Set to arrive at U.S. dealerships later this month, the 2023 Highlander costs $565 more than its predecessor and is notable for featuring an all-new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. It produces 265 hp (198 kW / 269 PS) and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque, which is a loss of 30 hp (22 kW / 30 PS) but a gain of 47 lb-ft (64 Nm).

We’ll find out how much the change impacts the driving experience shortly, but Toyota noted the turbocharged engine will enable the crossover to return a combined fuel economy rating of up to 25 mpg. That’s only 1 mpg better than the old 3.5-liter V6, but the automaker noted the turbo is more eco-friendly as it has a 50 percent reduction in NOx emissions when compared to the outgoing engine.

Also Read: 2023 Toyota Highlander Goes Turbo, Packs 265 HP And New Tech

Besides the turbocharged four-cylinder, customers can opt for the Highlander Hybrid that starts at $40,220. It features a familiar powertrain that consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, two motor-generators, a small battery pack, and a rear-mounted electric motor. This gives the crossover all-wheel drive as well as a combined output of 243 hp (181 kW / 246 PS). More importantly, the hybrid has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 36 mpg combined.

Exterior styling changes are barely worth mentioning, but interior updates are more meaningful as buyers will find a new Toyota Audio Multimedia system with 8- and 12.3-inch displays. The infotainment system debuted on the 2022 Tundra and offers cloud-based navigation, over-the-air updates, and an intelligent assistant that responds to the “Hey Toyota” wake word. It also has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as well as integrated Apple Music and Amazon Music streaming with the available Wi-Fi Connect subscription.

The 12.3-inch infotainment system comes standard on the $46,075 Limited and $49,075 Platinum, where it’s joined by an all-new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that features Casual, Smart, Tough, and Sporty displays. The range-topping trims also gain newly standard power folding side mirrors.

Elsewhere in the lineup, the $36,420 L and $38,820 LE gain a larger 7-inch display in the instrument cluster. It replaces the previous 4.2-inch display, which felt like a relic from a bygone era.

Additional changes are limited, but Toyota listened to our complaints and moved the wireless smartphone charger to a far more logical and accessible location. It used to be hidden beneath a roll-top cover on the center console, but it now resides in a cubby beneath the infotainment system.

As for exterior changes, there isn’t much to report apart from a new Cypress green color. The Highlander XSE also rides on new 20-inch wheels that are exclusive to the model and feature a black finish.