July 6th 2022
Toyota introduced the Highlander for the Old Continent about two years ago and now it is the biggest utility vehicle from the automaker in this part of the world. The SUV has just received a model update in Europe, boasting a new mill, additional tech, and a few customization choices. Toyota has opened the order books for the 2023 Highlander and the customers will start receiving their SUVs before the end of this year.
Similar to what Toyota offers for the U.S. markets, the 2023 Highlander for the Old Continent now comes equipped with a new 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder mill instead of the old naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre V6.
The new engine would generate 269 horsepower (198 kilowatts), 4 hp (3 kW) extra than the American Highlander. The maximum torque should be around 309 pound-feet (419 Newton-meters). Although the power figures are less than the 3.5-litre V6 engine, Toyota says the new mill will offer a “high acceleration response and torque delivery.”
Strangely, Toyota offers the new 2.4-litre turbo engine only for Eastern European markets. On the other side of the continent, the new Highlander will be accessible with a hybrid system powertrain consisting of a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol mill, assisted by two electric motors. The total power output will be 248 hp (182 kW) while emitting 146 grams per kilometer of carbon dioxide. The automaker claims these figures signify the best power-to-CO2 comparison in the class.
Regarding the power updates, the new Highlander now features a bigger 12.3-inch display for the infotainment system. The system isn’t only larger than before but is also more functional courtesy of cloud-based navigation with real-time traffic data, over-the-air software updates, 3D city mapping, fixed speed camera location details, and much more.
Besides these, the 2023 Highlander for Europe gets a newly designed digital instrument cluster, giving a three-dimensional impression. The driver will be able to customize the display by choosing from four distinct design themes.
The wireless charging pad will be a regular feature for all the trim levels in the Highlander. Moreover, the Android Auto will require you to connect through a cable, whereas the Apple CarPlay will be wireless. The SUV comes with a remote start functionality, allowing you to lock and unlock as well as turn on the hazard lights distantly.
While we do not know the pricing details yet, we can tell the 2022 Highlander starts at AED 156,900 in the UAE. The 2023 Highlander should be available at showrooms in the fourth quarter of this year.
Source and Images: Motor1