The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a mid-size crossover SUV that has been a staple in the automotive market for over two decades. Known for its reliability, spacious interior, and impressive fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid has become a popular choice among families and environmentally conscious drivers. But is the Toyota Highlander Hybrid any good? In this article, we will delve into the details of this vehicle, exploring its features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid was first introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model, and since then, it has undergone several significant updates and redesigns. The current fourth-generation model, which was launched in 2020, boasts a more aggressive exterior design, a more spacious and comfortable interior, and a range of advanced safety and infotainment features. The Highlander Hybrid is available in several trim levels, including the L, LE, XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum, each offering a unique set of features and options.
Key Features and Benefits
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers a range of features and benefits that make it an attractive option for buyers. Some of the key features include:
A powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain, which combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower and achieve an estimated EPA rating of up to 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. This hybrid system provides smooth and quiet acceleration, making it ideal for daily driving.
A spacious and comfortable interior, which can seat up to eight passengers and offers ample cargo space, making it perfect for road trips and family vacations.
A range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring, which provide added peace of mind and protection on the road.
A modern and intuitive infotainment system, which features a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium JBL sound system.
Performance and Handling
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, thanks to its powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain. The vehicle’s electric motors provide instant torque and acceleration, making it feel quick and agile, even in heavy traffic. The Highlander Hybrid also features a range of drive modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport, which allow drivers to customize their driving experience and optimize fuel efficiency.
In terms of handling, the Highlander Hybrid is surprisingly agile and responsive, thanks to its precise steering and well-tuned suspension. The vehicle’s electronic all-wheel-drive system also provides added traction and stability, making it capable of handling a range of road conditions, from smooth highways to rough off-road trails.
Pros and Cons
Like any vehicle, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has its pros and cons. Here are some of the key advantages and disadvantages to consider:
The Highlander Hybrid offers impressive fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for drivers who want to save money on gas and reduce their environmental impact.
The vehicle’s spacious and comfortable interior makes it perfect for road trips and family vacations.
The Highlander Hybrid’s range of advanced safety features provides added peace of mind and protection on the road.
However, some critics have noted that the Highlander Hybrid’s infotainment system can be slow to respond at times, and the vehicle’s third-row seats can be a bit cramped for adult passengers.
Additionally, the Highlander Hybrid’s price can be a bit steep, especially when compared to some of its non-hybrid competitors.
Comparison to Other Hybrid SUVs
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is not the only hybrid SUV on the market, and it’s worth comparing it to some of its key competitors. Some of the other popular hybrid SUVs include the Ford Explorer Hybrid, the Honda Pilot Hybrid, and the Subaru Ascent Hybrid.
The Ford Explorer Hybrid offers similar fuel efficiency and performance to the Highlander Hybrid, but its interior space and features are not as generous.
The Honda Pilot Hybrid offers a more spacious interior and a range of advanced safety features, but its fuel efficiency is not as impressive as the Highlander Hybrid’s.
The Subaru Ascent Hybrid offers standard all-wheel drive and a range of advanced safety features, but its fuel efficiency and performance are not as strong as the Highlander Hybrid’s.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a highly capable and attractive option for buyers who are looking for a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient mid-size SUV. While it may have some drawbacks, such as a slow infotainment system and cramped third-row seats, its benefits far outweigh its limitations. With its powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain, range of advanced safety features, and modern and intuitive infotainment system, the Highlander Hybrid is a strong contender in the hybrid SUV market.
Whether you’re a family looking for a reliable and practical vehicle, or an environmentally conscious driver who wants to reduce your carbon footprint, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is definitely worth considering. With its impressive fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and range of advanced features, it’s an excellent choice for anyone who wants a comfortable, capable, and eco-friendly SUV.
| Trim Level | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| L | $38,200 | 17-inch alloy wheels, Toyota’s Entune infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility |
| LE | $40,600 | 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-trimmed seats, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert |
| XLE | $43,650 | 18-inch alloy wheels, moonroof, Toyota’s premium JBL sound system |
| Bronze Edition | $45,250 | 18-inch bronze-finished alloy wheels, unique interior and exterior trim, 120V power outlet |
| Limited | $46,600 | 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera system |
| Platinum | $49,200 | 20-inch alloy wheels, panoramic moonroof, premium leather-trimmed seats |
- The Toyota Highlander Hybrid’s fuel efficiency and performance make it an attractive option for drivers who want to save money on gas and reduce their environmental impact.
- The vehicle’s spacious and comfortable interior, range of advanced safety features, and modern infotainment system provide added value and convenience for drivers and passengers alike.
What are the key features of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a mid-size crossover SUV that combines a powerful gasoline engine with an electric motor to provide exceptional fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Some of the key features of the Highlander Hybrid include its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, paired with an electric motor, producing a total system output of 240 horsepower. Additionally, the vehicle comes with a range of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
The Highlander Hybrid also boasts a spacious and comfortable interior, with seating for up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The vehicle’s cargo area is also generously sized, providing ample space for luggage, groceries, or other gear. Furthermore, the Highlander Hybrid is available in several trim levels, including the LE, XLE, Bronze Edition, and Limited, each offering a unique set of features and options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a practical and efficient family vehicle or a versatile and capable road-trip companion, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is certainly worth considering.
How does the Toyota Highlander Hybrid’s fuel efficiency compare to other vehicles in its class?
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class, with an estimated EPA rating of up to 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. This is thanks to its advanced hybrid powertrain, which seamlessly switches between the gasoline engine and electric motor to optimize fuel efficiency. In comparison, many of its competitors, such as the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer, offer significantly lower fuel economy ratings, making the Highlander Hybrid a more attractive option for drivers who want to save money on gas and reduce their environmental impact.
In real-world driving conditions, the Highlander Hybrid’s fuel efficiency can vary depending on a range of factors, including driving habits, road conditions, and weather. However, many owners have reported achieving fuel economy ratings that are close to or even exceed the EPA estimates, particularly in city driving or in stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, the Highlander Hybrid’s fuel efficiency can be further improved by using features such as the vehicle’s ECO mode, which optimizes the powertrain for maximum fuel efficiency, or by using the regenerative braking system to recharge the battery pack.
What safety features are available on the Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a leader in its class when it comes to safety features, offering a comprehensive suite of standard and optional safety technologies to help protect drivers and passengers. Some of the key safety features available on the Highlander Hybrid include a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The vehicle also features a range of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide maximum protection in the event of a collision.
In addition to these standard safety features, the Highlander Hybrid also offers a range of optional safety technologies, such as a 360-degree camera system, parking sensors, and a feature called “Traffic Jam Assist,” which helps the vehicle stay in its lane and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles in heavy traffic. The Highlander Hybrid has also earned top safety ratings from organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it an excellent choice for families or individuals who prioritize safety and security on the road.
How does the Toyota Highlander Hybrid handle and perform on the road?
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is known for its smooth and quiet ride, thanks to its advanced hybrid powertrain and refined suspension system. On the road, the vehicle handles with ease and precision, providing a comfortable and confident driving experience. The Highlander Hybrid’s electric motor and gasoline engine work together seamlessly to provide ample power and torque, making it easy to accelerate and merge with traffic. Additionally, the vehicle’s advanced all-wheel-drive system helps to provide maximum traction and stability, even in slippery or uneven road conditions.
In terms of performance, the Highlander Hybrid can go from 0-60 mph in around 8 seconds, which is respectable for a vehicle of its size and weight. The vehicle’s transmission is also smooth and responsive, providing quick and effortless shifting between gears. While the Highlander Hybrid may not be the most agile or sporty vehicle in its class, it is certainly capable and enjoyable to drive, making it an excellent choice for road trips, daily commutes, or running errands around town. Furthermore, the vehicle’s quiet and refined interior makes it an ideal choice for families or individuals who value a peaceful and relaxing driving experience.
What are the main differences between the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the non-hybrid Highlander?
The main differences between the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the non-hybrid Highlander are the powertrain and fuel efficiency. The Highlander Hybrid features a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, while the non-hybrid Highlander comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. As a result, the Highlander Hybrid offers significantly better fuel economy, with an estimated EPA rating of up to 36 mpg in the city, compared to the non-hybrid Highlander’s estimated EPA rating of up to 24 mpg in the city.
In terms of features and options, the Highlander Hybrid and non-hybrid Highlander are largely similar, offering a range of standard and optional amenities, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features. However, the Highlander Hybrid may be available with some unique features, such as an EV mode that allows the vehicle to run solely on electric power at low speeds. Additionally, the Highlander Hybrid may have some minor differences in terms of its suspension and steering, which are tuned to optimize fuel efficiency and handling. Overall, the choice between the Highlander Hybrid and the non-hybrid Highlander will depend on your individual priorities and needs, including your budget, driving habits, and lifestyle.
Is the Toyota Highlander Hybrid a good choice for families with children?
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is an excellent choice for families with children, thanks to its spacious and comfortable interior, generous cargo capacity, and range of family-friendly features. The vehicle offers ample space for passengers and gear, with seating for up to eight people, depending on the configuration. The Highlander Hybrid also features a range of convenience amenities, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features, including a rear-seat reminder and a feature called “Driver Easy Speak,” which allows the driver to communicate with rear-seat passengers through the vehicle’s speakers.
In addition to its practical features and capabilities, the Highlander Hybrid is also a very safe vehicle, with a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The vehicle also features a range of child-friendly amenities, such as LATCH connectors for installing child seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a feature called “Toyota’s Entune App Suite,” which provides access to a range of kid-friendly apps and games. Overall, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is an excellent choice for families with children, offering a unique combination of practicality, comfort, and safety that is hard to find in other vehicles in its class.
What is the typical maintenance cost of a Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
The typical maintenance cost of a Toyota Highlander Hybrid is relatively low, thanks to its reliable and durable powertrain, as well as its comprehensive warranty and maintenance program. According to various studies and estimates, the average maintenance cost of a Toyota Highlander Hybrid over a 5-year period is around $3,000 to $4,000, which is significantly lower than many other vehicles in its class. Additionally, the Highlander Hybrid’s hybrid battery pack is designed to last for the life of the vehicle, with a warranty of up to 10 years or 150,000 miles, depending on the state and local regulations.
In terms of routine maintenance, the Highlander Hybrid requires regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements, just like any other vehicle. However, the vehicle’s hybrid powertrain and advanced safety features may require some specialized maintenance and repairs, which can be performed by Toyota dealerships or authorized service centers. Furthermore, the Highlander Hybrid’s maintenance costs can be further reduced by following the recommended maintenance schedule, driving safely and efficiently, and addressing any issues or problems promptly. Overall, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a relatively low-maintenance vehicle that can provide years of reliable and trouble-free service, with minimal upkeep and repair costs.