What engine does the Toyota Highlander use?
Two powertrains currently anchor the Highlander lineup: a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 for gas-only models and a 2.5-liter hybrid system for the Hybrid variants. There is no plug-in hybrid option in the current lineup.
Powertrain options
Two engines currently power the Highlander, offering a balance between performance and efficiency across different trims and driving needs.
- Gasoline engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4, with roughly 265 horsepower and about 310 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. This engine emphasizes stronger acceleration and towing capability relative to the hybrid.
- Hybrid powertrain: 2.5-liter inline-4 hybrid with electric motors, for a combined system output around 243 horsepower. Uses an electronic CVT and is available with front- or all-wheel drive, prioritizing fuel economy over sheer acceleration.
In short, today’s Highlander offers a turbocharged gasoline option for performance-minded buyers and a hybrid option for efficiency-minded buyers.
Gasoline turbocharged engine
The 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 is part of Toyota’s modern Dynamic Force family. It features turbocharging, direct fuel injection, and advanced engineering aimed at delivering competitive power while maintaining reasonable efficiency for a mid-size SUV. The engine is typically paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an optional all-wheel-drive system, making it the go-to choice for those who want quicker acceleration and stronger highway performance.
Hybrid powertrain
The Highlander Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine with electric motors and a battery pack. This setup produces around 243 horsepower and uses an electronic CVT to manage power delivery. Front- or all-wheel drive is available, and the hybrid emphasizes fuel economy, often delivering mid-30s mpg combined depending on configuration and driving conditions.
Historical engine options
Historically, earlier Highlands offered a conventional V6 option. In prior generations, Toyota used a 3.5-liter V6 with an 8-speed automatic, which provided ample power but lower fuel efficiency compared with the newer turbocharged four-cylinder and hybrid options. In the current generation, Toyota shifted emphasis to the turbocharged 2.4L and the 2.5L hybrid, and the V6 is no longer offered in the Highlander lineup.
Summary
The Toyota Highlander today is powered by two primary engines: a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-4 for non-hybrid models and a 2.5-liter hybrid system for the Hybrid variant. This pairing gives buyers a choice between brisk performance and improved fuel economy, while avoiding a plug-in hybrid option in the current lineup. Historically, a V6 was available in earlier generations, but it has been phased out in favor of the turbo and hybrid powertrains.
What is the most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?
The most common problem with the Toyota Highlander is a major oil leak and loss of oil pressure caused by a faulty VVT-i oil line. Other frequent issues include infrequent but noticeable interior rattles, especially from the moonroof or dashboard, and problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission in 2017-2019 models, leading to noises, delayed shifting, and failure.
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with Toyota Highlander, including the 8-speed transmission issue: 59sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025
Most common problems
- VVT-i oil line rupture: This is the most frequent and serious issue, where the oil line bursts, causing a massive oil leak that can lead to complete engine failure if the vehicle is driven while the low oil pressure light is on. A revised part has been issued, but it has also been reported to have the same problem.
- Interior rattles and noises: Many owners report various rattles and squeaks coming from the interior, such as the moonroof, dashboard, or infotainment screen, particularly on bumpy roads or in cold weather.
- 8-speed automatic transmission: Specific models, particularly the 2017–2019 Highlanders, have been associated with issues such as a whining noise, delayed shifts, hard shifts, and even complete failure.
- Airbag sensor failure: Some models have a faulty front passenger airbag sensor that can short-circuit, preventing the airbag from deploying correctly.
Other potential issues
- Air and water leaks: Some model years have reported issues with plugged sunroof drain lines, leading to water leaks inside the vehicle.
- Check engine light: This can be caused by various issues, such as the hose coming off the air filter housing or a failed oxygen sensor.
- Brake issues: Some models have reported premature wear of brake pads and rotors, or a vibrating sensation when braking.
This video discusses problems with the 8-speed transmission in the 2017-2019 Toyota Highlander: 58sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jul 31, 2021
What engine does a Toyota Highlander have?
turbocharged 2.4-liter engine
The 2024 Toyota Highlander is a stylish and high-performing vehicle with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine that produces 309 lb-ft of torque, more than competitors like the 2024 Honda Pilot and the 2024 Hyundai Tucson.
Is the Toyota Highlander built on a Camry frame?
While most similarly sized SUVs of the time were built on truck frames, the Highlander was based on the Toyota Camry sedan chassis.
When did the Toyota Highlander stop using the V6 engine?
2023
Instead of a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, the 2023 Highlander will only be available with a new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The turbo motor pumps out 265 horsepower and 309 pound-feet of torque. Compared to the V6 engine, the turbocharged engine is down 30 horsepower, but up 46 pound-feet of torque.
