Toyota Highlander IV 3.5 V6 (295 Hp) Direct Shift


Overall Rating

8.9 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Toyota Highlander:

The Toyota Highlander , also known as the Toyota Kluger in some markets, is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by Toyota since 2000.
The Highlander was announced in April 2000 at the New York International Auto Show, arriving in Japan in late 2000, and North America in January 2001. It was among the first of a new class of mid-size SUVs that were based on a car platform. At the time, the Highlander was built on the company's existing Toyota K architecture, shared with the Camry. The Highlander became Toyota's best-selling SUV in the US before being surpassed by the smaller RAV4 in 2006....(Read more on Wikipedia)

IV Overview:

Toyota Highlander (IV). With 357 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.5 l/100km). With a weight of 1906 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2020
Adult Occupant 87%
Stars 5
Expert Note:
The Toyota Highlander IV achieved an excellent 5-star Euro NCAP rating in 2020, demonstrating strong performance in adult and child occupant protection, along with effective safety assist systems.

3.5 V6 (295 Hp) Direct Shift Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers the same strong V6 power as the AWD variant, providing smooth and confident acceleration for family duties.

Fuel Economy

Slightly better fuel economy than the AWD V6 due to FWD, but still a relatively thirsty option compared to 4-cylinder and hybrid models.

Best Use Case: Highway driving, areas without frequent snow or ice, and drivers prioritizing V6 power for towing.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional Toyota reliability and resale value
  • • Spacious and comfortable interior, especially in the first two rows
  • • Outstanding fuel economy from hybrid powertrains
  • • Comprehensive suite of standard safety features (Toyota Safety Sense)
  • • Smooth and quiet ride quality

Cons:

  • • Third-row seating is tight for adults on longer journeys
  • • V6 engine can be thirsty compared to modern rivals
  • • Infotainment system can feel dated compared to some competitors
  • • Driving dynamics are competent but not particularly engaging
  • • Exterior styling is conservative for some tastes

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(III (facelift 2016): 2016 - 2019).

General:
Brand:Toyota
Model:Highlander
Generation:IV
Modification (Engine):3.5 V6 (295 Hp) Direct Shift
Start of production:2020
End of production:2022
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:7-8
Doors:5
Engine:
Engine systems:Start & Stop System
Power:295 Hp @ 6600 rpm.
Power per litre:85.4 Hp/l
Torque:357 Nm @ 4700 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:2GR-FKS [Same engine] More details about the engine 2GR-FKS
Engine displacement:3456
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC, Dual VVT-i
Engine oil capacity:5.5 l
Coolant:12.2 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:94 mm mm
Piston Stroke:83 mm mm
Compression ratio:11.8:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:11.2-11.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:8.1-8.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (EPA):11.2-11.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (EPA):8.1-8.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (EPA):9.8-10.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:9.8-10.2 l/100 km
Emission standard:ULEV 70
Weight-to-power ratio:6.4 kg/Hp, 156.9 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.3 kg/Nm, 189.9 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1880-1932
Max. weight:2644
Max load:712-764
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2387 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:453 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):2200 kg
Fuel tank capacity:68 l
Size:
Length:4950 mm mm [60mm more]
Width:1930 mm mm [5mm more]
Height:1730 mm mm [40mm less]
Wheelbase:2850 mm mm [60mm more]
Front track:1659 mm
Rear (Back) track:1662 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):203 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.4 m [above average]
Approach angle:18.1°
Departure angle:23°
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears8
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeDirect Shift
Front brakesVentilated discs, 338 mm [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc, 338 mm [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size235/65 R18; 235/55 R20
Wheel rims size8J x 18; 8J x 20
Front suspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer

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