The Highlander was originally introduced for the 2001 model year and entered its second generation with a 2008 redesign. In addition to fresh styling and extra features, the vehicle grew several inches longer and wider, and gained an additional inch of ground clearance. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid costs about $5,000 more than a base non-hybrid all-wheel-drive model.
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid comes in base and Limited models, with all-wheel drive standard across the line. A third-row seat is standard on the Limited and optional on the base version, which makes it the only gas/electric hybrid SUV available with seating for seven; the luxury-oriented Lexus RX 400h, with which the Highlander shares platforms and components, lacks a third-row seat.
As is the case with other gas/electric-powered vehicles, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid’s fuel economy is typically at its best in city driving because the electric motors work optimally at lower speeds. To further maximize miserliness, the driver can activate an EV mode, in which the Highlander Hybrid will operate for a greater period of time solely under electric power in certain conditions; similarly, an ECON mode smoothes out throttle response to limit excessive acceleration.
While the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is far from being the sleekest-looking SUV on the market, it does offer good overall performance with predictable handling and a smooth ride. The vehicle’s interior is efficiently designed and offers adequate comfort in the first and second rows of seats. Its unique Center Stow second row can function either as a bench or, with the center section removed, separate captain’s chairs; a removable second-row console is optional. A third row is available on the base model and is included with the Limited; as in all but the largest SUVs, only the kids will find the rearmost row hospitable.
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