Toyota has announced that it plans to offer a four-cylinder engine in the 2009 Highlander SUV. The new 2.7L engine will be rated at 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque equipped with a dual exhaust manifold to increase low-end torque and mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission. Although fuel economy figures are not yet available, Toyota says that it will be rated as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle and should be near the front of the mid-size SUV pack in terms of fuel efficiency.
The four-cylinder model will serve as an entry-level model, offered only with front-drive and only two rows of seats standard. A third row of seating will be offered as an option, along with an eight-way power driver's seat, manual rear air conditioning, and an upgraded entertainment system featuring a six-disc CD changer with satellite radio capability, MP3/WMA capability, and six speakers.
The four-cylinder Highlander goes on sale in January 2009. Pricing will be announced closer to launch along with fuel economy ratings.
Source: Toyota