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AutoTrends: Toyota Highlander 2023 excites with turbo, new tech
Toyota Highlander, which has been the best-selling midsize crossover in the United States for six consecutive years, is getting a significant update for 2023, the leading automaker has said.
According to a new report by carscoops.com, the biggest change occurs under the hood as the 3.5-litre V6 engine has been replaced by a new turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder.
A turbocharged engine uses turbine power and forced induction to push extra compressed air into your engine’s combustion chamber.
The 2023 model Highlander produces 265hp (198 kW/269 PS) and 309lb-ft (418 Nm) of torque, which is a loss of 30 hp (22 kW / 30 PS) but a gain of 46lb-ft (62 Nm).
This is considered a mixed bag and the situation is further complicated by a combined fuel economy rating that is expected to remain at 24 mpg. This is somewhat surprising, but Toyota said the four-cylinder is more environmentally friendly as it offers “more than a 50 per cent reduction in NOx and NMOG [emissions] as well as an improvement in CO2 emissions compared to the outgoing V6 engine.”
Environmentally conscious consumers will likely opt for the familiar Highlander Hybrid.

It features a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, which enable the crossover to have a combined output of 243 hp (181kW / 246 PS) and an estimated fuel economy rating of 36 mpg combined.
Interior
Moving into the cabin, Limited and Platinum trims now come equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that replaces the previous analog gauges and 7-inch display.
Toyota did not say much about it, but the digital instrument cluster offers some degree of personalization as there will be four different display modes known as Casual, Smart, Tough and Sporty.
The higher-end trims also benefit from a new 12.3-inch infotainment system, which will also be available as an option on the mid-level XLE and XSE that come standard with an 8-inch display.
Speaking of screens, the entry-level Highlander L and LE trade their tiny 4.2-inch multi-information display for a larger 7-inch setup.
Getting back to the infotainment system, all 2023 Highlanders are equipped with the Toyota Audio Multimedia system that debuted on the 2022 Tundra.
It offers cloud-based navigation, over-the-air updates, and an intelligent assistant that responds to the “Hey Toyota” wake word.
The infotainment system also has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as well as integrated Apple Music and Amazon Music streaming with the available Wi-Fi Connect subscription.
Additional changes are minor, but Limited and Platinum trims gain power folding side mirrors, while the XLE and XSE now come equipped with a hands-free power liftgate.
More importantly, the available wireless smartphone charger is no longer hidden in the center console as it moves to the instrument panel shelf, which puts it within easy reach.
Rounding out the highlights are a new Cypress paint job, and updated Harvest Beige and Glazed Caramel interiors that trade Noble Brown accents for Black contrasts. Furthermore, the 2023 Highlander XSE gains new 20-inch wheels with a black finish.
The 2023 Toyota Highlander should arrive at U.S. dealerships later this year and we can expect to learn more details closer to launch.
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FG Courts China Logistics Deal to Power $1tn Economy Drive
FG Courts China Logistics Deal to Power $1tn Economy Drive

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to deepen its transport and logistics partnership with China, declaring that an efficient logistics system will be central to Nigeria’s ambition of building a US$1 trillion economy by 2030.
Speaking virtually at the 2026 Ningbo–Africa Trade and Logistics Cooperation Forum in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China, the Technical Adviser to the Vice President on Transportation, Logistics and Innovation, Dr. Segun Obayendo, said the Tinubu administration was implementing strategic reforms and partnerships to modernise transport infrastructure, improve supply chain efficiency and position Nigeria as West Africa’s logistics and distribution hub.
Obayendo said the Renewed Hope Agenda places infrastructure development, trade facilitation, investment promotion and economic competitiveness at the heart of the administration’s economic agenda, stressing that these goals cannot be achieved without a modern and integrated transport system.
“Nigeria’s aspiration to build a one-trillion-dollar economy will depend not only on what we produce but also on how efficiently we move people, goods and services,” he said.
“Modern transport infrastructure, resilient supply chains and efficient logistics systems are fundamental to attracting investment, expanding trade and driving sustainable economic growth.”
He noted that Nigeria’s strategic location, vast natural resources, expanding consumer market and access to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) provide a strong platform for regional economic leadership.
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0However, he said unlocking these opportunities would require sustained investment in multimodal transport infrastructure, seaports, rail networks, highways, inland dry ports, digital logistics platforms and integrated supply chains.
Obayendo described China’s zero-tariff policy for exports from African countries as a major opportunity for Nigeria to boost exports, strengthen local manufacturing, attract fresh investments and integrate more effectively into global value chains.
According to him, stronger Nigeria–China relations should extend beyond trade to include technology transfer, industrial development, infrastructure investment, innovation and skills development capable of generating sustainable jobs for millions of Nigerians.
He stressed that integrated logistics corridors connecting seaports, inland dry ports, rail lines, highways and warehousing facilities remain critical to reducing the cost of doing business, improving export competitiveness and maximising opportunities under AfCFTA.
The presidential aide commended the organisers of the forum—the Pan-African Institute for Supply Chain Innovation (PAISCI), the Ningbo China Institute for Supply Chain Innovation (NISCI) and China-base Group—for creating a platform that translates policy discussions into practical economic partnerships.
He also welcomed the proposed cooperation agreement on port development and logistics infrastructure between GK&A Logistics Services Limited and China-base Ningbo Foreign Trade Co. Ltd., describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s logistics capacity and bilateral economic ties.
“Transport and logistics are no longer merely support services; they are strategic economic assets. Countries that invest in efficient logistics systems become more competitive, attract greater investment, create quality jobs and unlock new opportunities for sustainable development,” Obayendo said.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to policies and partnerships that promote efficient transportation, logistics innovation, trade facilitation and sustainable industrial development.
Obayendo expressed confidence that agreements reached at the Ningbo forum would deepen Nigeria–China economic cooperation, stimulate private sector investment and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade, while urging governments, development partners, financial institutions and the private sector to sustain collaboration in implementing the resolutions.
FG Courts China Logistics Deal to Power $1tn Economy Drive
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Nigeria Takes Centre Stage at UN Road Safety Summit as Tinubu Delegates FRSC Corps Marshal
Nigeria Takes Centre Stage at UN Road Safety Summit as Tinubu Delegates FRSC Corps Marshal
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to the global campaign against road traffic fatalities by appointing the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, to lead the country’s delegation to the United Nations High-Level Meeting on Improving Global Road Safety in New York, United States.
The high-level gathering at the United Nations General Assembly Headquarters has brought together Heads of State, ministers, global policymakers and road safety experts to review progress and accelerate efforts towards achieving the UN target of reducing road traffic deaths and serious injuries by 50 per cent before 2030 under the Decade of Action for Road Safety.
Representing President Tinubu at the plenary session, Shehu Mohammed delivered Nigeria’s national statement on the meeting’s theme, “Scaling Up and Accelerating Implementation of Commitments to Halving Road Traffic Deaths and Injuries by 2030.”
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination to strengthen road safety governance through sustained political commitment, strategic investments, innovation and stronger international partnerships in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Corps Marshal highlighted the significant progress Nigeria has recorded in advancing road safety, noting that the Federal Government has strengthened the institutional capacity of the FRSC through strategic reforms, technology-driven enforcement systems, enhanced emergency response mechanisms and intensified public education campaigns aimed at reducing crashes and fatalities.
He also showcased Nigeria’s growing influence in road safety across Africa, citing the recent launch of the Nigeria Road Assessment Programme (NigeriaRAP) in partnership with the International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP).
According to him, the initiative adopts the globally recognised Safe System Approach to improve road infrastructure safety and reduce crash risks.
Mohammed further pointed to Nigeria’s role as host of the Secretariat of the African Association of Road Safety Lead Agencies (AARSLA), describing it as a strategic platform for promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing and institutional development among road safety agencies across the continent.
On sustainable transportation, the FRSC boss told delegates that Nigeria is aligning its mobility agenda with global environmental goals through the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs), while developing comprehensive safety standards for heavy-duty vehicles and emerging transport technologies.
While acknowledging the progress already made, Mohammed stressed that achieving the 2030 target would require stronger international cooperation in areas such as intelligent enforcement technologies, road infrastructure safety assessments, institutional capacity development and technology transfer.
He therefore urged development partners and the international community to expand technical cooperation and support capacity-building programmes that would help countries accelerate the implementation of global road safety commitments.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s position, the Corps Marshal declared that road safety remains a national priority under President Tinubu’s administration, assuring the global community that the country would continue to collaborate with international partners to build safer roads, save more lives and contribute meaningfully to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The UN High-Level Meeting, convened by the President of the United Nations General Assembly in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), is expected to adopt a Progress Declaration that will shape global road safety actions towards meeting the 2030 target.
The meeting is also reviewing countries’ progress since the 2022 Political Declaration and the Fourth Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety held in Marrakech, Morocco, in 2025.
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Jetour Nigeria Unveils RELY R8, Rugged Luxury Pickup Built to Dominate Work, Adventure
Jetour Nigeria Unveils RELY R8, Rugged Luxury Pickup Built to Dominate Work, Adventure
Jetour Nigeria has unveiled the RELY R8, a premium pickup truck designed to combine rugged performance with luxury, advanced technology and exceptional versatility, setting a new benchmark for work and recreational vehicles in Nigeria.
Engineered to thrive in the country’s demanding terrain, the RELY R8 is built for agriculture, construction, logistics, security escort operations and weekend adventures, offering the toughness of a workhorse without sacrificing the comfort and refinement of a modern SUV.
The pickup boasts high ground clearance, impressive approach and departure angles, and a reinforced chassis designed to withstand harsh road conditions while delivering excellent stability, even in strong crosswinds.
Its all-terrain capability is enhanced by multiple driving modes, allowing drivers to switch effortlessly between mud, sand and paved roads. Whether tackling heavy-duty tasks or venturing off the beaten path, the RELY R8 is built to perform with confidence.
Inside, the vehicle departs from the traditional utilitarian pickup design, featuring a spacious SUV-inspired cabin that comfortably accommodates five adults while offering a premium driving experience.
Speaking on the new model, Jetour Nigeria representative, Kemi Adeola, described the RELY R8 as a perfect blend of strength, innovation and comfort.
“The RELY R8 delivers strength, reliability and advanced technology in one vehicle. It offers the capability of a modern workhorse without compromising on premium comfort or safety,” she said.
The pickup is equipped with a high-performance processor that powers its L2+ intelligent driving assistance system. It also features a 12.3-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and remote engine start for enhanced convenience.
Safety is another major highlight of the RELY R8, with features including Intelligent Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking, all designed to provide greater confidence and protection on every journey.
Jetour Nigeria has continued to strengthen its presence in the country’s automotive market, earning recognition as the Fastest Growing Auto Brand in Nigeria, while its Jetour Dashing SUV won the prestigious Car of the Year award. The company has served as the sole authorised distributor of Jetour vehicles in Nigeria since 2022.
The RELY R8 is backed by comprehensive manufacturer support, genuine spare parts and professional after-sales service through Jetour Nigeria’s network of authorised dealers, including Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era Autovehicle Services Limited, Kojo Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, R.T. Briscoe Plc, TAB Autos Limited and Mandilas Motors.
Jetour Nigeria has invited prospective customers to visit any of its authorised dealerships nationwide to book a test drive and experience firsthand the RELY R8’s blend of rugged capability, cutting-edge technology and premium comfort.
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