Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Toyota Highlander Hybrid 

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a three-row midsize SUV that combines fuel efficiency, reliability, and family-friendly features. Known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced safety technology, the Highlander Hybrid is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered SUVs.

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Toyota Highlander Hybrid Generations & History

First Generation (2006–2010)

• Introduced as Toyota’s first hybrid SUV.
• Used a 3.3L V6 hybrid powertrain.
• Offered all-wheel drive (AWD-i) for enhanced traction.
• Known for solid fuel economy for its size (~27 MPG combined).

Second Generation (2011–2013)

• Upgraded to a 3.5L V6 hybrid engine.
• Improved fuel efficiency (~28 MPG combined).
• More advanced safety and infotainment features.

Third Generation (2014–2019)

• More powerful and efficient hybrid system.
• Used a 3.5L V6 hybrid engine with electronic CVT.
• Improved cargo space & passenger comfort.
• Added Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) with automatic emergency braking.

Fourth Generation (2020–Present)

• New 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid engine (instead of V6) for better fuel efficiency.
• Up to 36 MPG combined (best in class for a three-row SUV).
• Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ for advanced driver assistance.
• More refined interior & technology features.

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Toyota Highlander Hybrid Engine & Performance

2020–Present Highlander Hybrid Engine

• Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid engine
• Horsepower: 243 hp (combined system output)
• Torque: 175 lb-ft (engine), supplemented by electric motors
• Transmission: Electronic CVT (eCVT)
• Drivetrain Options:
  • Front-wheel drive (FWD) – standard
  • Electronic all-wheel drive (AWD-i) – optional
• Fuel Economy:
  • FWD: 36 MPG city / 35 MPG highway
  • AWD: 35 MPG city / 34 MPG highway
• Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs

Compared to previous models, the 4th-gen Highlander Hybrid prioritizes fuel efficiency over raw power, making it a great choice for families and long-distance drivers.

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 Interior & Cargo Space

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers seating for up to 7 or 8 passengers, depending on trim:

• Captain’s chairs (7-passenger) or bench seat (8-passenger) in 2nd row.
• Premium materials in higher trims (leather, soft-touch surfaces).
• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system (higher trims).
• Cargo space:
  • 16 cubic feet behind 3rd row.
  • 48.4 cubic feet behind 2nd row.
  • 84.3 cubic feet with both rows folded.

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Toyota Highlander Hybrid Technology & Infotainment

• Standard: 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
• Available: 12.3-inch touchscreen (higher trims).
• Optional JBL premium audio system (11 speakers).
• Wireless charging & multiple USB ports.
• Heads-up display (on top trims).

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 Safety & Driver Assistance

All Highlander Hybrid models come with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), which includes:

• Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection.
• Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go.
• Lane Departure Alert with steering assist.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
• 360-degree camera (on higher trims).

The Highlander Hybrid consistently receives top safety ratings from the NHTSA & IIHS.