Why did Toyota get rid of the V6 Highlander?
Toyota removed the V6 option from the Highlander in favor of a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired with a hybrid system, hinging on efficiency, emissions targets, and a broader electrification strategy for its family SUV lineup.
What changed and when
With the 2024 refresh, Toyota redesigned the Highlander to eliminate the traditional 3.5-liter V6 in favor of a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four for non-hybrid models, while preserving a hybrid variant based on a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This shift aligns the Highlander with Toyota’s global push toward downsized, turbocharged engines and electrified powertrains across its midsize SUV range.
The change reflects several strategic goals: improving real-world fuel economy, reducing carbon emissions, simplifying manufacturing, and laying groundwork for expanded electrification in Toyota’s mainstream SUV lineup.
Below is a breakdown of the main reasons behind the move.
- Fuel efficiency and emissions: The 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder delivers stronger efficiency and lower CO2 output overall compared with the older V6, helping the Highlander meet tightening regulatory standards and real-world fuel economy expectations.
- Performance that meets daily needs: The turbocharged four provides robust torque for highway merging and everyday driving, while keeping the weight and fuel use down compared with the prior V6.
- Productivity and cost management: A single family of engines and transmissions across more models simplifies production and supply chains, reducing manufacturing costs.
- Electrification strategy: The Highlander’s hybrid option continues to offer strong efficiency, and the broader move toward electrified powertrains across Toyota’s lineup makes the V6 option less essential in the portfolio.
- Market demand and regulatory trends: Consumer preferences increasingly favor fuel economy and lower emissions, with many buyers prioritizing hybrid options over traditional V6 powertrains in this class.
In short, Toyota’s decision to retire the Highlander’s V6 mirrors a wider industry shift toward smaller, turbocharged engines complemented by electrified powertrains, rather than a return to a larger displacement V6.
What replaces the V6 in the Highlander
The Highlander today relies on two core powertrains: a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four for non-hybrid models and a 2.5-liter inline-four paired with Toyota’s hybrid system for hybrid versions. The turbo engine produces about 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid system delivers around 243 horsepower combined, with electric motor assist for smooth, quiet operation. Both options are offered with all-wheel drive in various configurations, and the drivetrain is built to deliver practical performance for families and daily driving needs without a traditional V6.
Towing and everyday performance
Official specifications emphasize that the new powertrains provide ample acceleration and highway capability for typical family use, with the hybrid variant emphasizing efficiency over outright performance. Exact towing capacities and output can vary by trim and drivetrain, but Toyota positions the current Highlander as competitive for its class without a V6 option.
Implications for buyers and the market
Buyers considering the Highlander should expect lower fuel bills on models equipped with the turbocharged four or the hybrid system, along with access to Toyota’s latest safety and technology features tied to the redesigned platform. Some enthusiasts who valued the smoothness or potential towing profile of a V6 may notice a difference in character, but the turbo four and hybrid options deliver practical power with modern efficiency.
Beyond the Highlander, Toyota’s broader SUV lineup increasingly emphasizes electrification and efficient internal combustion options, signaling a continued trend away from traditional V6 offerings in mainstream family crossovers.
Summary
The elimination of the Highlander’s V6 aligns Toyota with a global shift toward downsized, turbocharged engines and electrification. The Highlander now relies on a 2.4L turbo four for non-hybrid models and a 2.5L hybrid system for hybrid variants, delivering competitive performance with improved fuel economy and lower emissions. For buyers, this means a modern, efficiency-focused lineup that prioritizes electrified options while maintaining everyday practicality.
Key takeaways
- The V6 was discontinued in favor of a 2.4L turbo four and a hybrid option for the Highlander’s 2024 model year and beyond.
- The shift aims to boost efficiency, reduce emissions, and streamline production within Toyota’s SUV portfolio.
- The current Highlander emphasizes power and refinement from turbo and hybrid powertrains, without a traditional V6 offering.
Summary: Toyota’s move away from the V6 in the Highlander reflects broader industry and corporate strategies prioritizing efficiency, electrification, and streamlined manufacturing while preserving practical performance for daily family use.
