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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  Hybrid in the Snow? - 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Barbara - February 8 - 8:26 pm

  Edmunds says this should not be bought as a "serious snow vehicle." If youll be towing a heavy trailer of snowmobiles and going on really rough terrain, they may be right. But if you will be on normal roads (paved or not) and you live where it snows a lot, dont hesitate to buy this vehicle. I live at 9000ft in the mtns of Colorado and it has performed extremely well in all conditions including steep snowy driveways. The AWD works great and I love the B gear which allows me to slow down without braking no matter what speed I am going. This is very helpful in slippery conditions and I am able to use the brakes very lightly if at all sometimes - great for the highway. We love this car.

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  Not what I expected - 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By John - January 26 - 7:33 am

  I was disappointed by the fuel economy of the car. This was the major reason I bought it. Fuel economy was 19/20 mpg and I was not driving in an aggressive manner. Build quality was rather poor for price. A lot of features were missing, eg there was no indication on the remaining miles in the fuel tank. Stereo system was of poor quality and sound. It felt wobbly and shaky when I drove it on the highway and did not feel very safe. The center of gravity should be a bit lower. One positive aspect was that there is plenty of room inside for two adults, two kids and baggage.

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  Everything I wanted. - 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By BG - January 19 - 8:13 am

  I needed to replace my minivan. I still needed a vehicle with 7 passenger capacity and wanted an SUV with great mpgs. I bought my first Hybrid and AWD which is a used 2012 Highlander Hybrid with 97k miles. It is smooth, quiet, comfortable, spacious and efficient. I was attracted by the 28 mpg EPA and pleasantly surprised with what Im getting. I drive 36 miles round trip to work each day and get 34+ mpg. My commute consists of 80% city and 20% highway miles. Today I got 34.5 mpg. Yes I drive differently to squeeze these miles out. The most effective tricks are to accelerate moderately (utilizes the electric motor), accelerate downhill and minimize the use of AC especially going uphill. There is an ECON button which regulates your acceleration, but you can shut it off if you are an aggressive driver. Im very pleased with the purchase of this vehicle. It is everything I wanted and needed.

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  Highlander Hybrid A Great Car - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Alan Allison - December 17 - 10:00 am

  We have owned the H/H for 4 months and love the vehicle. It drives and rides like a dream. We took 4 people, 4 medium suitcases, and 4 sets of golf clubs on a 1300 mile golf and wine buying trip. The back was full to the ceiling but we still had room for two cases of wine to bring home.Overall gas mileage is averaging 25mpg. So far we get better highway mpg 26-27 than city 24-25. Gas mileage was about 2.5 mpg higher before Oregon stuck it to the public with ethanol. Acceleration and passing ability is good, but if you lead foot the car a lot while driving it will cost you in mileage.

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  Overall Very Happy - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By sidk - December 16 - 7:56 pm

  I actually bought this for my wife, but have been hogging it. The fit and finish is top notch and the car delivers a tight, smooth ride. Gas mileage in the mid-20s, which isnt great, but good enough to still feel superior that Im driving a hybrid :)

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  Not worth the premium - 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By TAG - December 13 - 12:26 pm

  Finishing up first year with this car. Gas mileage is nowhere close to EPA estimates nor what others here are claiming. Best was 27 mpg in the first month, downhill ever since. The only way to get close to the EPA estimate would be to drive it purely in stop and go city driving. Also, mileage dropped off dramatically in the winter months. Hard pressed even in mostly city driving to get over 21 mpg. Beyond the lousy mileage, its a pretty good SUV. Not a lot of cargo room, but good comfort for the passengers and driver. Gas engine works well - good power, handles freeway speeds well. Handling is not that crisp, but this is a truck. Good fit and finish. No problems or defects in 1 year.

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  2007 Highlander Hybrid First 500 Miles - 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By hmcpeak - November 20 - 1:50 pm

  Getting 25 MPG and enjoying the car alot. Good power and quiet. Only mfg. problems so far is the one of the rear seats is locked in the up position preventing a flat cargo area. I am sure the dealer can fix it.

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  Early adopter - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By billwtx22 - November 17 - 11:36 am

  I bought the 2nd Hybrid Highlander available in the Houston area. Overall, I have enjoyed owning this car. It is fun to drive. The hybrid system acts like a turbo when I want to stomp on it, but gas mileage goes down to low 20s MPG. When I work at it, I can get low to mid 30s MPG. My hybrid inverter went out recently, but this has a long warranty (8 yr, 100K mi). However, the car had to be towed into the shop. The new HH has an electric vehicle mode that allows short distance driving on battery only, but I doubt if this works without the inverter. I test drove a 2008 model and it is more sluggish due to the added size/weight. I would buy the 2006 model again.

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  Great Car ! Very happy with purchase. - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By JAB - October 24 - 6:30 pm

  We bought this vehicle about 6 weeks ago and love it! The mileage is right about what it is rated at 27/city, 25/hwy. It probably could get better but I dont like always driving like a grandma so thats great mpg for me. The car has a lot of power when you need it such as getting on highways, etc., and has a smooth ride.

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  Shocked - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By pondscum - September 30 - 9:36 am

  Being an engineer I way underestimated this vehicle. The better half primarily drives it but I look forward to the rare opportunity to "steal" it. Our location uses ethanol in the fuels. We are now at around 10,000 miles and getting around 29 MPG (note using Mobil1 synthetic oil). I think it was a little lower when it was new. The hybrid system is seamless and a pleasure to drive. The seats and controls are well positioned thus comfortable to operate. Handles great and is comforting to know every time you hit the brakes a great deal of energy goes back into the batteries.