The Highlander Hybrid, which debuted in 2006, was a more fuel-efficient variant of the well-known Highlander SUV. It had a potent V6 engine paired with an electric motor to provide improved gas efficiency and lower emissions. Toyota provided an entry-level Highlander Hybrid at a discounted price in 2007. In 2008, a completely redesigned Highlander Hybrid that provided greater space, better handling, more safety systems, and more options was presented. For model years 2009 through 2011, there were no significant revisions planned. Climate control and third-row seating were added as standard features for 2012. 2013 saw the addition of GPS and Toyota’s Display Audio infotainment system as standard features.
In This Article...
What distinguishes a hybrid Highlander from a standard Highlander?
The Hybrid Highlander’s engine performance and fuel efficiency stand out as the most notable differences between it and the gas-powered variant. The Highlander Hybrid has a better fuel economy rating than the basic model, as suggested by its name. Additionally, it provides up to 243 net combined horsepower for your commute through Long Branch.
Has the Highlander a hybrid?
Our 2022 Best Hybrid or Electric SUV for Families is the Highlander Hybrid because of its excellent cargo and passenger space ratio, high safety and reliability scores, favorable press from automotive journalists, and readily available family-friendly options.
The Highlander is a plug-in hybrid, right?
Examine the main benefits of Toyota’s upcoming Highlander Prime gasoline, electric, and plug-in. If you enjoy Toyota products, these are enjoyable and exciting times. There are plenty of new releases and redesigns for the next generation of models to be excited about.
Which year of the Toyota Highlander should you stay away from?
Toyota’s Highlander Hybrid has been a well-liked SUV among customers since 2006. You should first be aware of which Toyota Highlander Hybrid model years to avoid if you’re considering purchasing one.
The Highlander Hybrid is a well-built car that has delivered consistently since it was introduced. 2006 and 2008 were the only “off years” it experienced. The Highlander Hybrid has shown to be an exceedingly dependable SUV in all prior years.
The 2008 model of the Highlander Hybrid is the poorest of the two distinct years that it fell. It not only receives the most complaints, but also the most expensive repairs.
Let’s look at what these concerns are really about and why you should pay special attention to them.
Is the Toyota Highlander Hybrid a Good Vehicle to Buy Used?
Having only two models with complaints for an SUV that is almost 20 years old is a pretty good sign of a reliable car.
As a result, searching for a Toyota Highlander on the secondhand market is a terrific idea. It routinely receives favorable ratings for its faultless performance, comfortable ride, high level of dependability, and ample power.
Minor drawbacks like a cramped third-row seating arrangement and a greater price are simpler to overlook when the Highlander Hybrid performs so well overall.
Even better, as seen below, you can effectively flip a coin to determine which year to purchase:
- Highlander Hybrid from 2007
- Highlander Hybrid from 2009
- Highlander Hybrid 2010
- Highlander Hybrid from 2011
- Highlander Hybrid 2012
- Highlander Hybrid from 2013
- Highlander Hybrid 2014
- Highlander Hybrid 2015
- Highlander Hybrid 2016
- Highlander Hybrid 2017
- Highlander Hybrid 2018
- Highlander Hybrid 2019
- Highlander Hybrid 2020
2010 would have to be the year we picked as the most problematic from the list above. Even then, there aren’t many complaints that have been filed.
Nevertheless, the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) claims that the service brakes have a history of issues, according to CarComplaints. The ABS not functioning when the brakes are applied is most notable.
CarComplaints claims that some drivers encountered soft brakes when attempting to stop. Making matters worse, the typical cost to fix this problem is close to $4,200.
The 2013 Highlander Hybrid also has a few complaints about the brakes and electronic stabilizer, and the 2017 model has two complaints about engine problems.
It’s important to note that the 2017 Highlander Hybrid’s engine issues happened at incredibly low mileage. When these problems started, the typical distance was about 1455.
It’s also crucial to note that comparatively few drivers have reported these issues. Therefore, it is impossible to say for sure whether or not the typical driver has to be concerned about this.
Consumers have a long history of being satisfied with the performance and dependability of the remaining Highlander Hybrids. It follows that you are likely to have the same experience.
What are the drawbacks of the hybrid Toyota Highlander?
1. Limited Legroom in the Third Row
Speaking of the third row, it is likely the biggest shortcoming of the 2021 Toyota Highlander. Of fact, this is a typical problem for the group. However, the lack of leg room in flat seats simply serves to emphasize that only small children would fit back there. The top two rows are best for adults.
2. Limited cargo room
The Highlander has a limited amount of cargo space as well. The load area behind the third row is only 16 cubic feet, which is not much for a third-row SUV. A considerably better-than-average 48.4 cubic feet can be obtained by removing the third row of seats. Unfortunately, this implies that there is not much room for cargo if all seats must be kept upright.
3. You can feel the weight.
Despite its poise under pressure, the Highlander may still feel its weight. In some circumstances, particularly while moving around on crowded city streets, it can feel clumsy. Imagine that you are in control of a boat with wheels.
4. Longer panic stops
It seems like panic stops take too long on this segment. Driving requires a lot of work to be put into braking, so try to timing your stops as efficiently as you can.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition:
With its extensive list of standard equipment, lovely interior made of premium materials, user-friendly infotainment system, standard AWD, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the 2021 Subaru Ascent could provide fierce competition for the Highlander. A few problems prevent it from truly competing, most notably the extremely sensitive gas pedal and the cramped conditions in the second and third rows. Not to add that as bumps enter the cabin, you will experience a lot of reverberation.
The Honda Pilot from 2021 is the Highlander’s most formidable rival. The Pilot has a lot going for it, despite the third row being difficult to access due to its narrowness and some driver aids being a little overly sensitive. The roomy cabin has broad seats, a comfortable and smooth ride, and excellent fuel efficiency. Additionally, the cargo room offers a great deal of mobility, and the interior of the cabin has intelligently constructed spaces for storing small items.
The third-row SUV category should see a strong competitor in the Toyota Highlander by 2021. Despite a few drawbacks, this is a situation where benefit exceeds evil. Additionally, we believe that drivers will find the new XSE trim level to be an even stronger argument for purchasing the Highlander.
Which Toyota Highlander model is the best?
The 20082013 edition is most likely the best option. You get more interior room, more features, a more potent engine lineup, better safety ratings, and better crash test results with this generation.
What various varieties of Highlanders are there?
The Toyota Highlander is the ideal vehicle for any camping excursion when it comes to strong performance. Drivers in the Scranton, Lackawant to County, and Wilkes Barre areas will be able to pick the ideal car for their needs thanks to the large number of well-equipped trims available.
We’re pleased to assist if you’re interested in driving the Toyota Highlander. Call Toyota of Scranton today to arrange a test drive and stop by our store!
The Highlander Hybrid has an electric-only mode.
Can there really be just one? Since there aren’t many 7-seat hybrid SUVs available, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a rather unique offering, as we’ve already mentioned.
Yes, it’s still well over $50,000, so it’s not a tiny sum of money. Additionally, the hybrid system has very poor real-world electric-only mileage. However, the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7 are still more expensive than the Highlander’s direct rivals.
The Highlander isn’t the most futuristic vehicle you’ll ever see because the overall electronics experience already feels a little old. However, it thoroughly meets all “practical” requirements, providing a ton of room and comfort for transporting more people or family members than you could in something smaller.
Consequently, the Highlander Hybrid occupies a certain niche. But there aren’t many other options if you need 7 seats and want the minimal benefits of a hybrid system. which should draw in a focused audience.