Overview & Reviews

The standard gas-powered Toyota Highlander has long enjoyed a reputation as an excellent midsize crossover with carlike drivability, SUV convenience and reasonable fuel consumption. The Highlander Hybrid model boasts the same credentials, but on top of that it also provides more power and even greater fuel economy. In many ways, it has been a segment leader since day one. It was the first hybrid SUV to offer all-wheel drive, seating for seven and more horsepower than its conventional gasoline variant.

Toyota has offered a hybrid version for every generation of the Highlander. Now in its third generation, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is larger, roomier and more upscale than ever before. But no matter which generation you're looking at, you can expect high levels of versatility, comfort, fuel economy and safety. It's an excellent option for car shoppers with an aversion to thirsty SUVs.

Current Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Debuting for 2014, the redesigned, third-generation Toyota Highlander Hybrid features more aggressive styling and a nicer interior design. A three-passenger third-row seat bumps maximum passenger capacity to seven, as the second row has a pair of captain's chairs. Its hybrid components are largely unchanged from the previous generation, however.

Power is provided by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which along with three electric motors and a battery pack, produces a combined 280 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard, as is a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Fuel mileage is very impressive for a three-row crossover at an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined.

Trim levels consist of Limited and Limited Platinum. Highlights of the Limited include a sunroof, a power liftgate, keyless ignition and entry, tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a back-up camera, Bluetooth, smartphone app integration and a premium audio system with satellite radio and an iPod/USB interface. The Limited Platinum adds a panoramic sunroof, automatic headlights, a heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats, Toyota's Safety Connect telematics, adaptive cruise control, a frontal collision mitigation system (with automatic braking) and a lane departure warning system.

In reviews, the newest Toyota Highlander Hybrid has earned high marks for its high fuel economy and upscale interior that's roomy enough for larger families. This three-row crossover also feels composed around turns, and the ride quality on the highway is smooth and very quiet. Although the 280-hp hybrid system is pretty punchy, there is a brief hesitation when you step on it, which makes the hybrid Highlander feel less responsive than the conventional Toyota Highlander. Price could also be a concern, as the hybrid is considerably more expensive than the regular Highlander. But if you can comfortably afford the Highlander Hybrid, it's an admirable all-around crossover that's bound to please.

Used Toyota Highlander Hybrid Models
The second-generation Toyota Highlander Hybrid was produced from 2008-'13. Compared to the original Highlander Hybrid, this one offered more interior room for passengers and cargo, as well as a more refined hybrid power system and standard all-wheel drive (previously there was a choice between front- and all-wheel drive).

Initially, this Highlander employed a 3.3-liter V6 that made 270 hp and was rated at an EPA-estimated 26 mpg rating in combined driving. A 3.5-liter V6 with 280 hp and a 28 mpg combined fuel economy rating debuted for 2011. That year the hybrid also received a minor styling update and a more versatile 50/50-split-folding third row of seats (replacing the previous one-piece bench). Toyota's Entune infotainment system with smartphone integration debuted in the 2013 model year, along with standard navigation.

This Highlander Hybrid was offered in base and Limited trim levels, and all versions came with all-wheel drive. Initially, the base model's highlights included a rearview camera, air-conditioning and a sliding and reclining 40/20/40-split second-row seat with a removable center section. The Limited trim added 19-inch wheels (versus 17-inch wheels), a power liftgate, a third-row seat and a power driver seat. Later years saw more standard features added to both trims. Highlights for the base version included Bluetooth phone/audio connectivity, the 50/50-split third-row seat and rear air-conditioning, while the Limited picked up a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, leather seating and heated front seats.

In reviews at the time, we observed that this second-generation Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered a desirable blend of performance and fuel economy along with a thoughtfully designed cabin. The reconfigurable second-row seats were a particular bonus. Potential downsides include a smallish third-row seat and a high price relative to the regular Highlander. Overall, though, this Highlander Hybrid remains a great all-around choice for a hybrid crossover SUV.

The first-generation Toyota Highlander Hybrid was built for just two years, 2006 and 2007, though it was based on the original Highlander that was introduced for 2001. Just like its gas-powered siblings, the hybrid Highlander was based on the Camry platform, giving it carlike drivability. Along with the significant fuel savings, the hybrid system kicked power output up to 268, adding almost 40 hp over the standard gas-only V6. While the hybrid's price of admission was quite a bit more than the standard Highlander, its miserly fuel consumption made the initial financial hit more bearable.

The extra weight of the hybrid system made handling a bit more sluggish than the conventional gasoline Highlander, but ride quality was still pretty smooth and comfortable on the hybrid version. And since it was quite a bit smaller than later generations of the Toyota Highlander, this first hybrid model was quite maneuverable in crowded parking lots, and in general, it felt more like a wagon than an SUV.

Two trim levels were available for the original Toyota Highlander Hybrid: standard and Limited. For a premium, the Limited version included foglights, steering-wheel-mounted controls for the upgraded JBL sound system, and some enhanced interior and exterior trim, including cabin wood-tone accents and a rear spoiler. A touchscreen navigation screen was available as an option on the Limited.

User Reviews:

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  The Best SUV - 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By yngturk - August 13 - 1:49 am

  Had this vehicle 10 months now, and 20k miles. No complaints whatsoever. I average 27 MPG in warm weather, and 24 in cold weather. Previously owned Chevy Trailblazers which were solid vehicles, but averaged 17 MPG. The Highlander Hybrid is flawless. Comfort, performance, and build quality are as good as you can get. Fit and finish are perfect. This is an extremely solid vehicle. Its been totally reliable. This is my first Toyota, but Im a believer in them, and in their hybrid technology.

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  Toyota Highlander Hybrid - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By mwalsh65 - August 6 - 1:36 pm

  I love my Highlander Hybrid. I used to drive a Saab 9-3, which I also loved. I got an avg of 21 mpg with the Saab. Because I have a 2 year-old and am facing preschool and carpool, I wanted to get a bigger vehicle, but did not want to get less mpg. Unfortunately, most mid-sized SUVs got 20 mpg or lower. Then the Highlander Hybrid was introduced and I jumped at it. Now, I get an average of 26 mpg (better than my sedan)and I have much more room (including a third row seat that folds into the floor). The vehicle drives very well and is very comfortable. I love this vehicle and I highly recommend it as a non gas-guzzling family car.

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  2006 Highlander Hybrid Review - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Cindy - July 19 - 8:23 am

  I have had the car for 3 months and have had no problems. It drives and handles well. I am spending much less in gas now than with my old SUV which was similar size.

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  Safety - 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By hylander31 - July 19 - 8:13 am

  We love our Highlander hybrid. We have had the vehicle for almost 2 years. Mileage is great. I want people to know that we were in a serious car accident. Both front airbags deployed and 3 point seat belt did their job. My husband and I walked away with only a few bruises and banged up ribs. We hope the car can be repaired and not totaled by insurance company. We are missing the first 12 to 16 inches of the front end of car. The other car in the accident did not fare as well. Definitely our SUV is a well built safe vehicle. If we have to get a new SUV, we are definitely going to get the Highlander Hybrid. We cant say enough about the safety features on the car.

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  Very Happy - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Ohio Driver - July 6 - 8:00 pm

  I have owned my 08 Highlander Hybrid for just 5 days but I am very happy. I am a discerning consumer and I researched and thought about thiw vehicle for 5 months before purchasing. I have owned Toyotas for 23 years and this is the best out of the gate. It is actually smoother and quieter than I expected and rivals my Avalon - BUT the pick-up power is till great!

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  Outstanding vehicle - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By pbjb - July 4 - 1:46 pm

  Took delivery of a Limited AWD Hybird edition on 7/20. Sold the 2003 Highlander LTD to a family member. New 2006 has even better ride qualities with the Michelin tires vs Bridgestone Duelers. The shift between electric power and gas is seamless.It takes a little getting used to when you stop at a traffic light and realize the engine did not stall. You hear virtually nothing. Have averaged 30MPG city driving. Although this is relatively new technology its comforting to know that Toyota gives you an 8 yr 100,000 mile warranty on the hybird system. I would rate this vehicle, in the short period of ownership, one of the very best SUVs weve ever owned including Jeeps and a BMW X5.

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  Good Result - 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By HighlanderHigh - June 27 - 5:03 am

  Good result. Mileage a little under claims. Excellent power and handling. Terrific quality and design. Only driving complaint is slight surging sensation on highway as electric motors kick in and out. With tax credit and some recent bargaining price reductions, this is still one I would buy again. Get Limited model.

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  2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid FWD Limited - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Huraira - June 26 - 8:00 am

  Got this SUV 2 months back, so far no issue at all, and what amazing comfort I got with this. Very roomy, fuel efficient, now I am getting 31MPG combine. I guess I can achieve 34mpg when only driving 40M/h. I started with 28 on my first 400miles.

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  Still early, an initial grade - 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By e - May 14 - 12:06 am

  Purchased w/ Nav, JBL system and rear seat DVD. For the price you would think you bought a Lexus, but overall very smooth, comfortable ride. Hybrid system is great, only 2 weeks old and getting 24mpg w/ mixed driving. Power tailgate is a nice feature along with the stow away middle seat. 3rd row isnt the best but certainly livable for adults for short durations. Fun to drive? Eh, its a SUV/Crossover. How fun can it be? If I wanted spirited/fun driving, I would be in my 06 TL. Overall a very nice upgrade from our 01 Pathfinder LE.

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  Great Purchase - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By howie29 - May 8 - 7:20 pm

  A bit pricey, but rides great and I have gotten 30 mpg in traffic conditions if I drive it easy. Mpg drops to mid 20s during hard and highway driving. Love this vehicle except for the price.