Does the Toyota Highlander come with a V6 engine?

Yes. In the United States, the gasoline-powered Highlander lineup continues to offer a 3.5-liter V6 engine, while the hybrid version uses a 2.5-liter inline-4 hybrid system. A V6 is not used in the Highlander Hybrid, and the larger Grand Highlander relies on turbocharged four-cylinder engines rather than a traditional V6.

Current Highlander engine options

The Highlander family today offers two main powertrain families: a gas V6 for traditional non-hybrid models and a hybrid system for efficiency-focused trims. Here are the specifics:

• Gasoline-only 3.5-liter V6 engine: about 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque; paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission; available in most non-hybrid trims with front- or all-wheel drive.


• Hybrid powertrain: 2.5-liter inline-4 engine combined with electric motors; total system output around 243 horsepower; CVT; available on Hybrid trims with front- or all-wheel drive.

In short, the traditional V6 remains a core option for buyers who prioritize power and towing in the gas-only Highlander, while the Hybrid trims prioritize efficiency with a four-cylinder powertrain.

Grand Highlander engine options

The Grand Highlander, a larger variant introduced to increase space and seating, uses turbocharged four-cylinder engines rather than a V6. Here is the primary engine option you’ll find on this model:

• 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 gas engine: around 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque; 8-speed automatic transmission; available with with all-wheel drive.

Note: The Grand Highlander does not offer a traditional V6 option. If a V6 is a priority, the standard Highlander’s gas lineup remains the place to consider it.

Summary

For shoppers, the key takeaway is that the Highlander’s gas lineup includes a 3.5-liter V6, which continues to power many non-hybrid trims. The Hybrid version uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system, and the Grand Highlander uses turbocharged four-cylinder engines rather than a V6. Always check the specific model year and trim for the exact powertrain details.

Is the Toyota 3.5 L V6 a good engine?

Yes, the Toyota 3.5L V6 is generally considered a very good and reliable engine, known for its durability and performance, though some models have specific issues like oil leaks from the front timing cover that can be expensive to fix. With proper maintenance, owners report these engines lasting for hundreds of thousands of miles. 
Positive aspects

• Reliability: The 2GR-series 3.5L V6 is known for its overall reliability and durability across various models, including the Camry, Tacoma, and Highlander. 
• Longevity: Many owners have reported hitting 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more with only basic maintenance. 
• Performance: It offers a good balance of power, smoothness, and fuel efficiency compared to many four-cylinder engines. 

Potential issues to be aware of

• Oil leaks: Some models, particularly the 2GR-FE, are known to develop leaks from the front timing cover. This can be an expensive repair because the engine often needs to be removed to access the area. 
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT): Early versions of the engine had some issues with the Variable Valve Timing gears, which could cause a rattling noise on cold starts. This has improved in later versions. 
• Maintenance: Regular and proper maintenance, especially timely oil changes, is crucial to ensure the engine's long-term health. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the potential oil leak issue in the Toyota 3.5L V6 engine: 58sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Nov 5, 2022
How to ensure your engine stays reliable

• Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, spark plug replacement, and fluid flushes. 
• If you are considering buying a used vehicle with this engine, have a mechanic inspect it for any potential oil leaks from the front timing cover. 

This video explains how to fix common problems with the Toyota 3.5L V6 engine: 59sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Sep 27, 2023

When did Toyota discontinue the V6 in the Highlander?

2023
For 2023, Toyota's ultra-popular three-row Highlander SUV gets a new turbocharged engine to replace the V6 that has powered the Highlander since 2008.

Which Toyota models have a V6 engine?

The Toyota Sequoia and Tundra are the primary Toyota models that currently offer a V6 engine in the United States, both using a twin-turbocharged 3.4L V6. The Sequoia uses a hybrid version called the i-FORCE MAX, while the Tundra has both a standard i-FORCE V6 and the hybrid i-FORCE MAX option available. Toyota is phasing out V6 engines in many other models, such as the Camry, Tacoma, and 4Runner, in favor of 4-cylinder engines.
 
This video explains the features of the V6 engine in the Toyota Tundra: 1mToyota WorldYouTube · Jun 16, 2025

• Toyota Sequoia: Features a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine (i-FORCE MAX). 
• Toyota Tundra: Available with a standard 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (i-FORCE) or the hybrid i-FORCE MAX version. 

This video shows the features of the V6 engine in the Toyota Tundra: 57sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Mar 29, 2025

• Other models: Many older models, such as the Camry and 4Runner, previously had V6 options but have since replaced them with four-cylinder or hybrid powertrains. 

Which Toyota Highlander has a V6 engine?

The Toyota 2022 Highlander and older models came with a 3.5L V6 engine, while the 2023 and newer standard Highlander models have a turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder engine instead. The larger Grand Highlander offers a V6 option in some of its trims.
 
Toyota Highlander (Standard)

• 2022 and older: All standard models were equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine that produced 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. 
• 2023 and newer: The V6 was replaced with a turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder engine for non-hybrid models. 

Toyota Grand Highlander

• Available V6: The larger Grand Highlander offers a 3.5L V6 engine in certain trims.