Toyota has officially launched and begun selling the Highlander, a mid-size 7-seater SUV. The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the third electrified model released following the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid PHEV and Hybrid, and the Crown with its dual boost hybrid powertrain.
The Highlander released in South Korea is the 4th generation model. It offers excellent fuel efficiency, ride comfort, and spaciousness through its 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain. The company will offer two trim levels in South Korea. The trim-specific prices are 66.6 million won (approximately $50,800 USD) for the Toyota Highlander Limited and 74.7 million won (approximately $57,000 USD) for the Platinum.
While the Highlander's exterior may not be particularly striking, designers have created a concept that is neither angular nor likely to go out of style quickly. They have applied Toyota's SUV family look, featuring a front grille and a wide-looking front end. The lower design has volume, and with 20-inch wheels and large-diameter tires, they have achieved a stable body proportion.
The Highlander Hybrid's interior is based on a horizontal layout. It offers a 7-seat space in three rows, with each row of seats arranged in a stepped configuration to ensure visibility for all passengers. The second-row captain's chairs and third-row seats also feature a flat-folding function.
The Toyota Highlander produces a total output of 256 horsepower with its parallel hybrid system and 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine. It achieves a combined fuel efficiency of 13.8 km/L (approximately 32.5 mpg). With its superior fuel efficiency in its class, it qualifies for eco-friendly vehicle tax benefits, public parking discounts, and congestion charge exemptions as a Level 2 low-emission vehicle.
Based on the TNGA-K platform, it offers a high-rigidity body with tuned suspension. To reduce noise, Toyota has installed sound-absorbing designs around the dashboard and center console. They have improved the side mirrors and hood shape to provide high noise and vibration performance. The vehicle also features pitch body control, which helps stabilize the body's movement during acceleration.
The hybrid-specific E-Four system precisely controls the distribution of driving force between the front and rear wheels from 100:0 to 20:80. This provides the driver with efficient and stable driving performance.
The Highlander Hybrid uses Toyota Connect as its infotainment system. Based on LG U+Drive, it offers connected navigation, podcasts, mobile TV, and separate service subscriptions, allowing users to access features such as music streaming and U+ Smart Home. LG U+ Drive LTE is free for 3 years, after which it becomes a paid service.
The extended warranty program adds Toyota Korea's own 2-year service program to the standard 3-year or 100,000 km warranty period. This results in a total of 5 years or 100,000 km of support. The vehicle's dimensions are 4,965 mm (195.5 inches) in length, 1,930 mm (76 inches) in width, 1,755 mm (69.1 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,850 mm (112.2 inches).
