2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid SUV Review
Economical and spacious, the new Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of the largest hybrid SUVs on sale today.
Misses
Feels a bit underpowered
Unrefined gas engine
Floaty high-speed ride
Hits
35 MPG hybrid
Third row useable for adults
Inexpensive base price
Toyota has indelibly left its mark on the automotive landscape, and, for most consumers, that is thanks to their massive proliferation of hybrid electric powertrains. Starting with the humble Prius, Toyota now offers some form of electrification through most of their model line-up. The latest to receive the green energy treatment is the brands’ large three-row SUV with the new Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
With a $38,735 base MSRP, Highlander Hybrid utilizes the familiar 2.5-liter 243 horsepower hybrid gas-electric four-cylinder powertrain as seen in the RAV4 Hybrid. Due to Highlander’s larger and heavier form factor, performance takes a hit compared to the more nimble RAV4. However, EPA fuel economy figures of 35 MPG city, 34 MPG city and 35 MPG combined for this AWD-equipped excellent are still exemplary. The leisurely 8.5-second 0-60 run, though, is a bit less so.
Granted, no one buying a Highlander cares about extreme acceleration, but they may care to know that, like RAV4, the Highlander’s gas engine like to make a racket getting up to speed. Driving at low speed on solely electric power is possible, Highlander leans hard on the gas engine, especially at higher speeds. While the two electric motors and gas engine work together nicely, the latter is definitely a bit coarse.
On the upside, DBFR saw a real world figure of 36 MPG after a week behind the wheel, so the gruff powertrain is well worth looking past, as it’s 30% more fuel efficient than the standard V6-powered Highlander.
This tester, which rings in at $50,088, is very nicely equipped with all the comforts and conveniences one could want for at this price point. With an interior wrapped in eco-minded synthetic leather, Highlander Hybrid comfortably fits grown adults in all three rows, with ample trunk space to match. Occupants will enjoy the heated and ventilated seats, as well as a robust tech stack.
ALSO SEE: 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid: Better Than RAV4 Prime?
The 12.3-inch infotainment display is paired with an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and wireless phone charging. The interface for this system, as in other Toyota products, is simple, but straightforward and offers a get-in-and-go level level of utility.
On the road, Highlander Hybrid leans into its big, comfy image with a soft, isolated ride. Highlander’s larger size and longer wheelbase pay dividends over the smaller RAV4 or even the Venza with its sedate handling of imperfections and broken pavement that cover Los Angeles’ myriad roadways.
The only hang up is the occasional bit of float in the ride at higher speeds, with the soft suspension bounding around over big dips in the ride, which can feel unsettling for back seat riders.
ALSO SEE: 2021 Toyota Venza Review: A More Luxurious RAV4 Hybrid?
Highlander Hybrid slots in neatly between smaller alternatives, like the Kia Sorrento Hybrid, or the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid and bigger players like the Ford Explorer Hybrid, and it will really boil down to how much space is needed for your family.
As it sits, Highlander Hybrid is well-equipped, reasonably priced, and for just $1,400 more than a regular V6-powered model, an obvious upgrade that will quickly pay buyers back that cost from less frequent visits to the pump.
Want to see more Toyota goodness? Follow Jake on Instagram, it’s all cars all the time.
