2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.70/5 Average
65 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Toyota has completely redesigned the Highlander Hybrid for 2008. Although this hybrid crossover SUV is considerably larger than its predecessor, its gas mileage is just as good.

Pros:
  • Hybrid drivetrain offers a useful compromise of performance and fuel economy, thoughtfully designed cabin with reconfigurable second-row seats and a habitable third row, quality interior materials.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 65.00
  • Our 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Ltd - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
    By -

    We did lots of research for our next new car. We also have a 2006 Prius & we knew nothing could touch it for gas mileage. So far it exceeds our expectations in all areas & now shows 26.2 MPG.

  • Quality Ride - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
    By -

    Before buying our Highlander, we researched and drove both the Ford Escape and Lexus RX 400h and found that for the money, the Toyota was a far better buy. The console is easy to read and operate i.e., big print. Plenty of head and leg room with added storage within arms reach, 4 drink holders, etc. too many extras to mention. After keeping mileage records for 3 months, we average 26.7 mpg. My husband, a truck guy, was hesitant about buying a hybrid, however he now hides the keys from me. The pick-up and go is comparable to any other 6cyl, however this vehicle is not for towing anything over 3500pds which we do with ease. All around a nice buy.

  • Mines not Quiet - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
    By -

    After a year of research and test driving various SUVs and crossovers we settled on the HH and decided to order exactly what we wanted. We had test driven several HH and other hybrids and all were quiet, but none impressed us like the HH. When our HH came in we were excited. It was beautiful and had everything we wanted, except for the NOISE! When we brake to slow down it sounds like a jet engine winding down. It also has a click. We were expecting the quiet we had experienced with the other HHs we drove, but were greatly disappointed. The dealership has told us that some hybrids have that noise more than others - it is normal. I wont order again. I buy what I test drive on the lot.

  • Love the car-highly recommend - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
    By -

    We purchased this 3 year old 2008 Highlander Hybrid 3 months ago and we could not be happier with it. It drives very well with excellent pick up. With time we have gotten familiar w/ the car and what it "likes". For example, on the highway, there are certain speeds-62 and 66, that it uses the electric power. Also, we are all driving less heavily on the pedal. It probably is good training to drive any car more efficiently. Overall, we get average 25 mpg. I am the main driver of the car. I use it to drive my son to school and back each day and after school lessons for both kids. My husband drives it occasionally and he loves it too. Whenever I am not using it, he uses it.

  • 2008 Highlander Hybrid - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
    By -

    My wife has always wanted the Lexus GX SUV due to reliability, luxury and performance, so for christmas I started shopping vehicles. I had never heard of a Highlander and I am very familiar with cars. When the dealer suggested we consider this new hybrid I had very little interest until sitting in the vehicle and driving it. Wow. It was clearly a better overall vehicle than any of the other SUVs I had been testing. The interior is a family room on wheels. Lots of room, all the features of high end SUVs, and the engine flat out gets after it. We get 24 mpg while driving very aggressive and fast. The all wheel drive has been excellent in the snow.

  • Like a Lexus - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
    By -

    Driven several BMW, Mercedes, and Land Rover SUVs Highlander Hybrid is far superior in terms of comfort, fuel economy and reliability. I have been driving my new HiHy for about a month and still wondering how it is putting together especially the transition from EV to ICE is seamless. Because of my offices location I have to drive approx 3 hours a day, and driving this vehicle is really effortless and smooth without worrying wasting gas in traffic jams. This car is innovative, it has leading edge technology, and the most important it is extremely reliable.

  • Great mileage for a SUV - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
    By -

    Very happy overall. Very quiet, very good MPG 1st tank 26, 2nd 28, 3rd 28 and fourth 31 MPG! True, lots of LA traffic involved to get those numbers. We also own a Prius so we have practice at driving hybrids. Im 63" and have lots of leg room. Front seats could have a bit more thigh support, but still very comfortable. Would have prefered black leather interior...not offered. Ive owned lots of Toyotas this one is by far the best.

  • Drive to Save - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
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    The thing that makes the 2008 Highlander Hybrid is the gas electric meter so you can monitor your gas/electric use. Very fun and a great way to max out the MPG.

  • Definitely different! Great car! - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
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    Driving a hybrid in order to maximize fuel economy is definitely a skill. And that is why I had to give a lower "fun" score. Simply getting in the car and driving away as you would any other car will not yield optimal fuel economy. Read about "hypermiling" for more info. The power steering and shocks could be a little stiffer to give a sportier, controlled driving experience. The car leans more into turns than my 4Runner. The interior is definitely designed for luxury and comfort. The Synergy system and variable transmission work seamlessly to provide power when needed.

  • 08 HH - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
    By -

    Highway mileage is great, 28 mpg at 70+ mph. We live at the top of a hill, + 650 over the valley where we shop and work; so my town driving isnt great, around 21 mpg, but 10+ mpg over the Yukon I had before at the same run. My major issue at the moment is the big tires on the Ltd edition, Toyo 245- 55-19, are a problem as I cant find chains to fit. With freezing rain over snow, chains are required on all roadways. The Toyo tires are just OK on the ice & snow, but I cant get any of the excellent Michelin X-type tires to fit the wheels. Comfort is pretty good, but I miss the roomyness and soft leather of my old Yukon Denali, woos, Ill make due. Overall, quite satisfied with the HH.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid Reviews By Year:
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