Overview
The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid SUV fares well in the midsize SUV segment. Adding $10,475 to the price of the standard V6 gasoline variant, the Toyota Highlander hybrid carries a base price of $38,715 and is offered in 2 trims, reaching a price of $44,370 for its top trim. The engine on service here is a familiar 3.5L V6 supported by a 4.5 kWh electric system and 3 motors. Mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission, it makes 280 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. The combined fuel economy improves from 22 MPG on the standard gasoline variant to 28 MPG, making the increase in sticker price worth it. The performance of the Highlander hybrid remains at par with the gasoline variant, with the car accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. Toyota offers the same 6 colors for the Highlander hybrid. The Highlander hybrid competes directly only with the Lexus RX 450h Hybrid. Another more expensive indirect rival is the Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid.
