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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  Arizona Highlander Hybrid Experience - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By glen OHara - December 24 - 9:50 pm

  Just turned 20,000 miles, and now get a consistent 28 mpg around town (not towing anything). Highway mileage totally depends on average speed: taking it easy, can get 29 mpg; 75-85 mph takes it down to 23mpg. However, after owning three Priuss, the POWER of the Highlander Hybrid is amazing. Ive beat V8 powered vehicles off-the- line; much to their amazement. What they dont know is that with a full state of charge, the hybrid version can kick over 60 extra horsepower to the two additional traction motors, while the engine stays at the peak of its horsepower curve. Also, in Arizona, the electric powered air conditioning runs at full effiiciency all the time; even stopped

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  Still early, but lovin it! - 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By wvgasguy - December 23 - 2:53 am

  Im at about 1000 miles and still breaking it in. Averaging 24.5 in winter weather so extremely happy with that. Traded a Camry Hybrid in after 63,000 miles so I know how to maximize this from the "get go". Its so much more functional than the Camry, and I wanted an awd for the wife who is now driving daily in all types of weather and needs the space to haul the grandkids around. I am pleasantly surprised at how much more comfortable it is over the TCH. It is extremely versatile yet an economical vehicle to drive. You do have to "baby it" to maximize the mileage, but even my wife is getting around 23.5 and she does nothing special.

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  So far...great value. - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Greg - December 21 - 1:23 pm

  One week ownership. Bought used at 46k but its like new. Our objective was to find a larger car, as reliable, more powerful, more quiet and more comfortable than our CR-V but with good visibility, equivalent mpg with 4WD. A tall order but we found it with the 06 HH (08,09 HH are too big, too pricey, have recalls and 19" wheels = $$tires). Analyzed and drove 10 comparable, the 06/07 HH has the best value. Mileage: better than anticipated (avg 29+ urban commute, 26 hwy). This beats CR-V with more horsepower and much more cargo space! Also the new CR-V has poor visibility and road noise. Our HH has a full ltd. package, we traded up. Finally, a comfortable drivers seat.

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  Navigation big disappointment - 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Don - November 18 - 12:26 pm

  I purchased the navigation system and entered a destination only to find out a major interstate that opened in Nov. 07 is not included on the DVD. I have version 8.1 (the latest version). The navigation system sends me the wrong direction because there are no current updates. I have a $250.00 TomTom that is updatable on the internet and a much more useful tool than the $2000.00 navigation system from Toyota. The Sirius/XM is over priced from the dealer, I went online and found a $400.00 kit that I installed in 20 min. and works just like the OEM version.

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  New Owner and I love it! - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Happy in LA - November 16 - 9:13 pm

  Ive had my Highlander for two weeks and I love it. It really takes off when you accelerate and climbs hills with ease. I love the "buzz" factor too. A lot of people are curious about hybrid cars now and its fun to be on the "cutting edge" of a new technology. I had a Camry for 13 years and getting this new car has been a big thrill. The small features like extra cupholders, power outlets and cargo cover show the thought that went into the design of this vehicle. The informational dash read-out that shows the power source (gas or electric) is also well planned because it explains the new sounds you hear when the power train shifts from gas to electric or both. Bravo Toyota! I love it!

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  Nice Hybrid Ride! - 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By PaulW - November 4 - 10:03 pm

  Im still a very new owner but my first two tankfuls in mixed city/highway driving have been 28.4 MPG and 28.6 MPG. Based on the EPA sticker I was hoping for even more, but what Im getting is still 60% BETTER than my last SUV. Ill save $1000 in gasoline every year with this vehicle (based on my year-long predicted average of $2.699/gallon).

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  Dont waste your money - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Dave Trupp - October 31 - 3:43 pm

  Bought in Aug 2005. We have 7500 miles on it now and can only get 22 mpg. Its sad since the regular version gets 20 MPG (hwy). We are not aggressive drivers and drive with the lightest foot possible. The dealer told us to drive this vehicle hard for the first 5000 miles when we bought it so the computer would learn. Learn what??? I bought this vehicle, I stuck with it but I will not make the same mistake twice. They simply are not worth the money. Honesty works best. Toyota should learn that and stop advertising the high MPG when they know its not true. Per my service adviser "normal range for the highlander hybrid is 22-28 MPG" Isnt the 30+ number they tell you when you buy it is it.

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  My first Hybrid - 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Terry H - September 8 - 1:40 am

  I purchased my first toyota and hybrid Sept. 6th. I love it. Its fun to drive. I have put about 1000 miles on it and only put about $40.00 of gas. My son loves the moonroof. We like looking at the stars at night. You just have to get use to feeling the jerking when the gas engine stops and electric engine picks up. Also when you use your brakes you feel and hear them. I do also hear more road noise than Im use to but it is still a great SUV.

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  Exactly what the doctor ordered! - 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By Ron L - September 2 - 8:56 pm

  A very good overall vehicle. Has a great quiet ride and has great engine performance. I like the exterior look, but have to admit the hybrid drive is the reason I love it. My MPG has been as advertised once the vehicle has broken in and it was no longer winter. This Highlander has definetly made me forget my Pilot.

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  Watch out! Hybrid Inverter Failure - 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  By dmr500 - August 24 - 12:58 pm

  I loved my beautiful 2007 Highlander Hybrid SUV until the inverter failed immediately after the 100,000 mile warranty. The part costs close to $7000. It is a sealed part - no customer maintenance required. Not something youd expect to fail after just 100,000 miles. Toyota Customer Care says its my problem. Internet research shows that this is a bigger and more widespread problem than Toyota is willing to admit. Heres the clincher. The car completely stalled out while I was driving at about 40 miles per hour. I had to coast to the side of the road. It was harrowing. This is a dangerous problem - I am getting rid of this car. I would not recommend a Toyota hybrid of any sort.