The Toyota Highlander IV 2.4 Turbo, introduced in 2022, represents the fourth generation of Toyota’s popular mid-size SUV. Positioned as a family-focused vehicle, the Highlander competes with models like the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Ford Explorer. This generation marked a significant shift towards enhanced technology, improved fuel efficiency, and a more refined driving experience. While the Highlander has been a mainstay in the North American market for over two decades, the fourth generation brought substantial updates to solidify its position in a highly competitive segment. The 2.4 Turbo variant, equipped with a direct-shift automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, is a key offering within the Highlander IV lineup, emphasizing performance alongside practicality.
Toyota Highlander IV 2.4 Turbo: An Overview
The Highlander IV, launched globally including North America, builds upon the established reputation of its predecessors. It retains the core values of reliability, safety, and spaciousness while incorporating modern design elements and advanced features. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine is a central component of this generation, replacing the previous V6 option in many markets. This engine is part of Toyota’s Dynamic Force engine family, designed for improved thermal efficiency and power delivery. The Direct Shift transmission, an eight-speed automatic, further enhances the driving experience by providing smooth and responsive gear changes. The all-wheel-drive system contributes to enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Highlander IV 2.4 Turbo is its 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated T24A-FTS. This engine utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler to produce 265 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 420 Nm (309.78 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1700 and 3600 rpm. The engine employs both direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, optimizing fuel delivery for both power and efficiency. This dual-injection system allows for precise fuel control across a wider range of operating conditions. The power-to-weight ratio stands at 7.4 kg/Hp, or 134.9 Hp/tonne, while the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.7 kg/Nm, or 213.7 Nm/tonne. This powertrain delivers a balance of performance and fuel economy, with combined fuel consumption rated at 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l). The engine’s 11:1 compression ratio and DOHC valvetrain contribute to its efficient operation. The Start & Stop System further aids in reducing fuel consumption during city driving. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving all four wheels through the eight-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system.
Design & Features
The Highlander IV features a contemporary SUV design, characterized by a bold front grille, sculpted body lines, and a spacious interior. The vehicle is a five-door SUV offering seating for seven to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. Key features include a modern infotainment system with touchscreen display, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and a comfortable and well-appointed cabin. Safety is a priority, with standard features like ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and a comprehensive suite of airbags. The interior emphasizes practicality with ample storage space and flexible seating arrangements. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 453 liters (16 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 2387 liters (84.3 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4950 mm (194.88 in.) in length, 1930 mm (75.98 in.) in width, and 1730 mm (68.11 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2850 mm (112.2 in.). Ground clearance is a respectable 203 mm (7.99 in.). The Highlander IV’s suspension system utilizes independent McPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Available wheel sizes range from 18 to 20 inches, with tire sizes of 235/65 R18 and 235/55 R20 respectively.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Highlander |
| Generation | Highlander IV |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 Turbo (265 Hp) AWD Direct Shift |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | SULEV 30 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 134.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 110.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 1700-3600 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 1700-3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Dynamic Force / T24A-FTS |
| Engine displacement | 2393 cm3 (146.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99.5 mm (3.92 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1965-2020 kg (4332.08 – 4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2708 kg (5970.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 688-743 kg (1516.78 – 1638.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 453 l (16 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2387 l (84.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Length | 4950 mm (194.88 in.) |
| Width | 1930 mm (75.98 in.) |
| Height | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1659 mm (65.31 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1662 mm (65.43 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm (7.99 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 338 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 338 mm |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Direct Shift |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Tires size | 235/65 R18; 235/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 20 |
The Toyota Highlander IV 2.4 Turbo AWD Direct Shift represents a compelling option in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality. Its advanced engine technology, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety features make it a strong contender for families and individuals seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle.
