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.
Toyota Highlander IV: An Overview
The Highlander IV builds upon the established reputation of its predecessors, offering a blend of practicality, reliability, and modern features. The 2.4 Turbo variant, equipped with a direct-shift transmission, is a key offering within the lineup, providing a balance of power and efficiency. This model is designed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile SUV capable of handling daily commutes, family road trips, and light-duty hauling. The introduction of the Dynamic Force engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission are central to the improvements found in this generation.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Highlander IV 2.4 Turbo lies Toyota’s Dynamic Force 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated T24A-FTS. This engine produces 265 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 420 Nm (309.78 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1700 and 3600 rpm. The engine utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler, along with direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, to optimize performance and fuel economy. The power-to-weight ratio stands at 7.1 kg/Hp (140.6 Hp/tonne), and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.5 kg/Nm (222.8 Nm/tonne). Power is delivered to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission with a ‘Direct Shift’ function, designed for quick and smooth gear changes. Fuel economy is rated at 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) combined, with figures of 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) in urban settings and 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) on the extra-urban cycle. The engine meets SULEV 30 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Toyota Highlander IV maintains the SUV body style, offering seating for seven to eight passengers depending on configuration. It features a five-door layout and a spacious interior designed for comfort and convenience. The exterior design incorporates a more aggressive and modern aesthetic compared to previous generations, with a bolder front grille and sculpted body lines. Key features include a standard Start & Stop System for improved fuel efficiency. The interior boasts updated technology, including a touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and premium materials. Trunk space is highly versatile, ranging 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. Safety features are comprehensive, reflecting Toyota’s commitment to occupant protection. 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 203 mm (7.99 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Highlander |
| Generation | Highlander IV |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 Turbo (265 Hp) Direct Shift |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | SULEV 30 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 140.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.8 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 | 1885-1935 kg (4155.71 – 4265.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2663 kg (5870.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 728-778 kg (1604.97 – 1715.2 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 continues to be a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, and practicality. Its updated design, advanced technology, and spacious interior make it a suitable choice for families and individuals alike.
