2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Las Vegas NV

November 3, 2009   By Jad Dunning, DriverSide Contributor



2008 Toyota Highlander
Hybrid
DriverSide Overview
As a pioneer in hybrid technology, Toyota scores big with the 2008 Highlander Hybrid .  And when we say big, we mean it. Boasting a third row of seats, the Highlander is roomy and well appointed for the mid-size SUV class, but its actual dimensions are smaller than you would expect. For that reason, the Highlander can maneuver through crowded city streets just as well as it does in suburban wide-open spaces. If you are intrigued by hybrid technology and looking to stretch your gas budget - but also need a dependable people mover at a reasonable price  then look no further. You'll get noticed in this eye-catching ride while feeling good about doing your part to save the environment.








What's to Like
Fuel economy is at a premium with this Highlander, certainly as compared with its mid-sized SUV classmates. The console is simple and clean with an optional navigation system that is very intuitive. Beyond that, we were pleasantly surprised at how well it handles and by the smooth, quiet ride even when powered by the fuel engine at higher speeds.

What's Not to Like
The keyless ignition is a challenge. There is a few seconds delay between engagement and ignition. More troubling is that the hybrid engine is so quiet that when it does turn over, any street noise makes it difficult to know. The regenerative brakes take a long time to engage, but when they do, they grab the pavement abruptly.

The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
We give the Highlander Hybrid high marks in its performance. Transitions between the hybrid and fuel-powered engine are very fluid. The overall ride is very smooth, both at low speeds and on the highway too. Running on the electric motor is very quiet of course, but we also found that the Highlander stays pretty quiet at high speeds after it transitions to the fuel engine. Perhaps most compelling is how well the SUV handles; it doesn't feel like a heavy truck, but instead, maneuvers elegantly through traffic, into tight parking spots and around town.

Engine and Drivetrain
This four-wheel drive 3.3-liter V-6 hybrid produces 209 horsepower and 212 lb-ft of torque. The 123-kilowatt electric motor produces 167 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. Toyota offers interesting options with the "EV" and "Econ" driving modes. In the EV setting, it solely runs on electric power which can be used at low speeds and for very short distances and, as such, has limited utility. However, in Econ mode, the vehicle sacrifices acceleration impact for better fuel economy. It's a nice option for driving in traffic, especially with four dollars and up for a gallon of gas.

Interesting Vehicle Features and Options
The instrument panel displays the average fuel economy, average speed, distance to empty and current fuel economy. The car also features a keyless entry th...

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