Toyota Highlander to Feature All-New Four-Cylinder Engine

  - Capable Performance Plus Outstanding Fuel Efficiency Equals Excellent

                                  Value -



    TORRANCE, Calif., Aug. 14 /EMWNews/ -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS),

U.S.A., Inc., announced today that the 2009 Highlander mid-size sport

utility vehicle (SUV) will offer an all-new, powerful yet fuel-efficient

2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. When it arrives at dealerships in

mid-to-late January, the new Highlander powerplant will be among the best

mid-size SUVs in the areas of performance, fuel economy and value.



    The new 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine will generate an impressive 187

horsepower at 5,800 RPM and 186 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,100 RPM on regular

87 octane fuel. A dual exhaust manifold will help achieve exceptional

low-end torque and maximize its power output. In addition to its

performance output, the Highlander equipped with the new four-cylinder will

be EPA-rated as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEVII) and is expected to

be among the leaders in fuel efficiency in the gas mid-size SUV segment.

Official EPA fuel efficiency ratings will be announced closer to launch.



    The new four-cylinder engine will be mated to an all-new six-speed

electronically-controlled automatic overdrive transmission with

intelligence (ECT-i). The new transmission will help deliver quiet and

smooth performance on par with a V6 and acceleration that is surprisingly

quick for a four-cylinder. When equipped with a tow package, the new

powerplant will achieve a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.



    The new engine will come standard on the Highlander grade

two-wheel-drive model equipped with two rows of seats, contributing to its

excellent value. A third row seat package will also be available for

families requiring additional seating capacity. Other key optional

equipment will include an eight-way power driver's seat, manual rear air

conditioning, and an AM/FM/six-disc CD Changer with satellite radio

capability, MP3/WMA capability and six speakers.



    With the new four-cylinder engine, Highlander will be the only mid-size

SUV in the current market to offer three powerplant choices. The 3.5-liter

Highlander V6, available in two- and full-time four-wheel drive, is among

the leaders in fuel efficiency among V6 gas engines in its segment. The

full-time 4WD-i Highlander Hybrid, equipped with a V6 powerplant with front

and rear electric motors, stands above all others for fuel efficiency among

all mid-size SUVs.



    Since it first launched in 2001, Highlander has been one of Toyota's

most popular vehicles, setting the standard for car-based SUVs in

innovation, comfort and sales. Driver and passenger comfort is accomplished

with segment leading seating versatility through innovative flexible

seating functions for up to seven people. Comfort is complemented with one

of the highest levels of standard safety features in the small- and

mid-size SUV market including a segment-leading total of seven airbags.