America’s best-selling midsize SUV, the Toyota Highlander, is getting some refreshments next year. The new 2024 Toyota Highlander will introduce many improvements, including a new turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The popular V6 model is gone, and the new one will reportedly produce 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque, which is 30 horses fewer than the outgoing 6-cylinder.
Unfortunately, the fuel economy is the same as the old one. Anyway, the Highlander Hybrid model is also available, and it produces a 243-horsepower powertrain. This model gets 36 mpg in front-wheel drive (FWD) and 35 mpg in all-wheel drive (AWD). Besides, the new SUV will also gain some small exterior and interior upgrades.
Will the 2024 Toyota Highlander Be Redesigned?
The exterior of the 2024 Toyota Highlander will be refreshed just enough to lure more buyers. So, the new SUV will gain only mid-cycle upgrades to keep up with other models in its class. The size of the Highlander remains the same and is similar to the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot.
However, the look of the Highlander can change a bit depending on the trim level. For example, the Bronze Edition comes with unique bronze-colored wheels and is available in some cool paints. On the other hand, the top two trims roll on handsome 20-inch wheels using new LED projector headlights.
Interior Makeover
Great news for all Highlander lovers. Reportedly, the new 2024 Toyota Highlander will get a bigger driver’s instrument display through trims. As far as we know, the manufacturer will replace the tiny 4.2-inch screen with a bigger 7-inch screen on L and LE trims.
On top of that, you can get an even bigger one, a 12.3-inch display on higher trims as standard or optional on lower trims. According to Toyota, the new SUV will come with the latest operating system, like the latest Lexus NX. It supports language recognition, over-the-air updates, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
2024 Toyota Highlander Engine Specs
As per the news, the 2024 Toyota Highlander will replace the aging V6 with a new turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The new powertrain will be able to produce 265 horsepower, which is around 30 fewer than the outgoing 6-cylinder. It is also worth mentioning that the torque is slightly better at 309 lb-ft, and it feels slightly more powerful at neighborhood speeds. Strangely, the new engine is not more fuel efficient compared to the old V6. The new engine is reportedly rated at the same 24 mpg combined.
Alongside this engine, Toyota also offers a hybrid one. This model uses a 2.5-liter inline-4 + electric motor producing 243 horsepower. Every Highlander, including the hybrid, uses an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, and it has a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.
How Much Will the New 2024 Toyota Highlander Cost?
At the moment, we don’t have an official word about pricing for the 2024 Toyota Highlander. From many reports, the new SUV will not be a significant change from the current one which starts at $35,855 for the basic model. As we said, the headline change compared to the outgoing model is a new engine and some mild changes inside and out.
Overall, if you’re looking for a great three-row SUV, then consider this one as the best option. Unfortunately, you must wait a little longer because the new Toyota Highlander will hit stores sometime next year, probably in the fall.
