Toyota Highlander Hybrid SUV

By: Sara Harris
Staff Writer
Published: Jun 28, 2009

Articles - Toyota Highlander Hybrid Starting MSRP: $34,700

The 2009 Toyota Highlander is one of the most successful hybrid SUVs on the market. The Highlander Hybrid comes with a base MSRP of $34,700 and can deliver 27 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. City mileage is slightly higher than highway mileage because the Highlander relies more on the electric motors for propulsion at low speeds.

The Toyota Hybrid can reduce fuel consumption when the SUV is running in EV mode. When activated, it begins to smooth out the throttle response in an effort to limit excessive acceleration, which can enhance fuel economy. While the Toyota Highlander doesn't have the best mileage for a hybrid SUV, it still offers huge savings at the gas pump.

When driving the Highlander Hybrid, I noticed that the electric power steering was light to the touch and not over-assisted. This provided a great road feel. The SUV rides very comfortable and offers a lot of spacious room for passengers.

Inside the Toyota Highlander, this model comes with a CFC-free air conditioner with an air filter, a CD player with MP3 capabilities, and a backup monitor. The backup monitor allows drivers to have an unobstructed view of behind the vehicle. The SUV features three seating rows, rear privacy glass, a rear heater system, and rear seat cup-holders.

The third-row seat reclines and also folds completely flat into the floor to create added cargo space. The Highlander Hybrid also has a leather-wrapped shift knob, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls, chrome door handles, an eight-way power driver's seat and an AM-FM/cassette/CD audio system. Folding the seats down reveals 80 cubic feet of cargo space.

Toyota Highlander Luxury Hybrid Options

The Toyota Highlander also comes with a luxury price range, that's if you want the added features. You can get more options with Toyota's Navigation System and Bluetooth for around $47,000. While this price sounds a bit steep for a Toyota Hybrid vehicle, this SUV can come fully loaded.

Some experts believe that most buyers who are interested in the Highlander Hybrid are better off with a non-hybrid model. They claim that you can maximize fuel mileage by maintaining proper tire pressures and driving at reasonable speeds. I don't believe this theory, as a conventional SUV has more weight and doesn't include the new fuel efficient technologies that a hybrid does.

If you need an SUV, this is a very good choice. It offers great acceleration, luxurious interior, and, best of all, plenty of space for your 1 or 2 kids to be comfortable in the back. If you are in the market to buy a new hybrid SUV, be sure to test drive the latest Toyota Highlander.