I watch a lot of drag race videos on YouTube. Both for pleasure and because I work here, and you guys seem to like stories about the weird ones we find. The result of this obsession is a YouTube algorithm that tends to surface hidden gems. The best one yet is this extremely nice video about a supercharged Toyota Highlander.
For those that don't know, the previous Toyota Highlander came with the 26R-FE V-6 engine. That's the 3.5-liter that powers versions of the Camry, Avalon, Rav4, Lexus ES, Lexus RX, and more. But it wasn't just used in Toyota and Lexus products. The Lotus Evora was originally powered by a modified 26R-FE, and later versions got a supercharged version of the Camry engine. So in a roundabout way, this supercharged Highlander (sorta) has Lotus Evora 400 power.
The result isn't particularly impressive. In the video he runs a 14.42-second quarter mile, roughly equivalent to an ND Miata. But from the comments about lightweight wheels, third-row deletes, and an incoming hood scoop for better airflow, you can tell the owner cares about and enjoys his car. That led me down a rabbit hole watching his other Highlander build videos, including a fun dyno test.
It's a good reminder that enthusiasm isn't about buying the best tool for the job. It's about enjoying what you drive, however that looks.
Arguably the most fickle member of the Road & Track staff, Reviews Editor Mack Hogan is likely the only person to ever cross shop an ND Miata with an Isuzu Vehicross. He founded the automotive reviews section of CNBC during his sophomore year of college and has been writing about cars ever since.
