2017 Toyota Highlander AWD Quietly Gets 10% Better Fuel Economy

Toyota has made significant changes to the 2017 Highlander that might not be obvious at a quick glance. Most notably 2 MPG better than 2015 and 2016 models.

The 2017 Highlander may look familiar, but under the skin, things have changed. One of the most important results of the changes that Toyota made for the new model year is a 10% boost in fuel economy. The V6 Highlander for 2015 and 2016 earned a 20 MPG combined rating. For 2017, the Highlander equipped with All-wheel drive earns a 22 MPG combined rating. This despite the EPA making its fuel economy rating even more conservative for the 2017 model year. This change is projected by the EPA to save Highlander owners $1,500 over ten years in fuel costs. As always, the Highlander uses the least expensive fuel in America, regular unleaded.

Not only did the Toyota Highlander gain 2 MPG for 2017, power increased by 25 hp. The Highlander is able to combine a fuel economy increase and power increase by using direct fuel injection and a new eight-speed automatic transmission that Lexus has used now for many years in its crossovers.

The Highlander remains one of the most powerful crossovers in its class. It has 68 more hp than the Mazda CX-9's all-new engine. The Highlander also matches the Honda Pilot AWD's combined fuel economy rating.