We’re just now starting to see how automakers are responding to higher prices at the pump. The common theme of increased emphasis on more efficient and powerful four-cylinder engines hasn’t been lost on Toyota , who announced today a 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder engine for the Highlander SUV.
With 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft. of torque, the new four-cylinder gives up quite a bit on paper compared to its robust six-cylinder big brother (with 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft.), but Toyota is banking on high EPA estimates that would put it “among the leaders in fuel efficiency,” according to the Japanese automaker. EPA estimates will be released closer to the entry-level Highlander’s January, 2009, launch. For comparison, the 2008 V6 is rated at 18/24 mpg city/highway.
The four-cylinder will be mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission (while the V6 appears to retain its five-speed and the Hybrid retains its CVT). Toyota says the four-cylinder’s maximum towing capacity will be 3,500 lbs.
Though Toyota hasn’t released final equipment specifications, it has said that the four-cylinder Highlander will start as a two-wheel-drive model with two rows of seats. Toyota says that a power driver’s seat, an in-dash CD changer and a third row of seats will be optional, which suggests that the four-cylinder will be offered in the base trim level, which started at $27,500 with a V6 in 2008.
