Taking the high road
Recently, we’ve spent a great deal of time in hybrid vehicles at Auto123.com. I guess it’s a sign of the times, and something we’ve got to get used to (read: I have to get used to).
Thanks, in no small part, to the likes of Toyota and Lexus hybrid systems, I may just yet learn to love them. Hands down, they offer some of the best units out there. From the Prius to the CT 200h, Toyota has some great hybrid products out there, and the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of them.
What is a Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
The Toyota Highlander hit North American soil in 2001. In 2006, a hybrid version (the first available 7-seater hybrid on the market) emerged powered by a V6 and a part-time, all-wheel drive system in which the rear wheels were powered by a separate electric motor.
Since then, the Highlander has seen one major exterior update. At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Toyota announced that the third generation Toyota Highlander will see a whole new look with room for eight and three powertrains available.
Technicalities
The 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD-i features all-wheel drive and Toyota’s advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive. Powered via a 3.5L 6-cylinder, it pushes out 280 horpsepower (with the help of the electric motor). And while I’m usually not a fan of the CVT, Toyota’s version is actually alright to drive; enjoyable without being too aggravating.
While the non-hybrid Toyota Highlander offers up two different motors (2.7L or 3.5L) and three different trim levels, the Highlander Hybrid offers only one engine and two trim levels: Hybrid 4WD-I (which was my tester) and the Hybrid Limited 4WD-I. A regular, base Toyota Highlander starts in the $30k range, while my particular vehicle starts at $43,400 ($49,670 with options).
Driving the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Conveniently, the week I had the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Matt St-Pierre had a 2013 Lexus RX450 h which meant we were able to really see how the Toyota hybrid cousins stacked up against one another in terms of driveability, comfort and convenience. You’ll have to check out the complete comparo, but know this: The Toyota Highlander surprised, on more than one front.
As far as drive is concerned, the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid -- blissfully -- drives like a “normal” car. The CVT is actually pleasant and not too noisy when pushed. Toyota’s hybrid system is nearly seamless in its electric-to-gas transitions.
I averaged fuel numbers in the 10L/100km range which impressed me for a vehicle its size and weight, but high for this hybrid.
Handling in the 2013 Highlander Hybrid is nice and tight. While I absolutely hated the minuscule steering wheel (felt like I was holding a spaghetti noodle), the connected feel is great and offers the driver a sense of control.
The suspension ensures the ride in the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is as smooth as butter… without being too soft and floaty. I took the Highlander on some pretty bumpy roads and managed to keep my venti salted caramel latte in the cup.
Inside and out of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Facelifted for 2011, the front of the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid looks sharp and aggressive. Small, angular headlights atop accented fog-light openings, the front grille seem simple but it does the job. Subtle wheel arches atop 19” also work well.
I really liked the interior of the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, if for no other reason than the fact that there were tactile knobs and buttons to push, along with the infotainment touchscreen. Equipped with a JBL sound system, perforated leather seats, and a host of amenities (like a backup camera, keyless entry and even rear reading lamps), the Highlander Hybrid is an upscale SUV anyone would be happy to drive around in.
Although, I wouldn’t recommend the rear seat be used by anyone over the age of 6 as it is a bit tight back there. Also of note: With the 3rd row up, cargo space dwindles to just 10.3 cu-ft, whereas sans 3rd row up it’s a decent 42.4 cu-ft.
Comparing the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
There isn’t a whole out there at the moment in terms of a 7-seater hybrid vehicle. Ford’s 2.0L EcoBoost Explorer is a decent alternative, as is the VW Touareg TDI, minus 2 spots. And if you’re all about the Americans, you can also look to the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid as a massive hybrid alternative.
All in all, I think Toyota has a decent product in the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and I think the price reflects what you get: lots of room, fuel efficiency, and usability.
Recently, we’ve spent a great deal of time in hybrid vehicles at Auto123.com. I guess it’s a sign of the times, and something we’ve got to get used to (read: I have to get used to).
Thanks, in no small part, to the likes of Toyota and Lexus hybrid systems, I may just yet learn to love them. Hands down, they offer some of the best units out there. From the Prius to the CT 200h, Toyota has some great hybrid products out there, and the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of them.
What is a Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
The Toyota Highlander hit North American soil in 2001. In 2006, a hybrid version (the first available 7-seater hybrid on the market) emerged powered by a V6 and a part-time, all-wheel drive system in which the rear wheels were powered by a separate electric motor.
Since then, the Highlander has seen one major exterior update. At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Toyota announced that the third generation Toyota Highlander will see a whole new look with room for eight and three powertrains available.
Technicalities
The 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD-i features all-wheel drive and Toyota’s advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive. Powered via a 3.5L 6-cylinder, it pushes out 280 horpsepower (with the help of the electric motor). And while I’m usually not a fan of the CVT, Toyota’s version is actually alright to drive; enjoyable without being too aggravating.
While the non-hybrid Toyota Highlander offers up two different motors (2.7L or 3.5L) and three different trim levels, the Highlander Hybrid offers only one engine and two trim levels: Hybrid 4WD-I (which was my tester) and the Hybrid Limited 4WD-I. A regular, base Toyota Highlander starts in the $30k range, while my particular vehicle starts at $43,400 ($49,670 with options).
Driving the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Conveniently, the week I had the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Matt St-Pierre had a 2013 Lexus RX450 h which meant we were able to really see how the Toyota hybrid cousins stacked up against one another in terms of driveability, comfort and convenience. You’ll have to check out the complete comparo, but know this: The Toyota Highlander surprised, on more than one front.
As far as drive is concerned, the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid -- blissfully -- drives like a “normal” car. The CVT is actually pleasant and not too noisy when pushed. Toyota’s hybrid system is nearly seamless in its electric-to-gas transitions.
I averaged fuel numbers in the 10L/100km range which impressed me for a vehicle its size and weight, but high for this hybrid.
Handling in the 2013 Highlander Hybrid is nice and tight. While I absolutely hated the minuscule steering wheel (felt like I was holding a spaghetti noodle), the connected feel is great and offers the driver a sense of control.
The suspension ensures the ride in the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is as smooth as butter… without being too soft and floaty. I took the Highlander on some pretty bumpy roads and managed to keep my venti salted caramel latte in the cup.
Inside and out of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Facelifted for 2011, the front of the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid looks sharp and aggressive. Small, angular headlights atop accented fog-light openings, the front grille seem simple but it does the job. Subtle wheel arches atop 19” also work well.
I really liked the interior of the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, if for no other reason than the fact that there were tactile knobs and buttons to push, along with the infotainment touchscreen. Equipped with a JBL sound system, perforated leather seats, and a host of amenities (like a backup camera, keyless entry and even rear reading lamps), the Highlander Hybrid is an upscale SUV anyone would be happy to drive around in.
Although, I wouldn’t recommend the rear seat be used by anyone over the age of 6 as it is a bit tight back there. Also of note: With the 3rd row up, cargo space dwindles to just 10.3 cu-ft, whereas sans 3rd row up it’s a decent 42.4 cu-ft.
Comparing the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
There isn’t a whole out there at the moment in terms of a 7-seater hybrid vehicle. Ford’s 2.0L EcoBoost Explorer is a decent alternative, as is the VW Touareg TDI, minus 2 spots. And if you’re all about the Americans, you can also look to the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid as a massive hybrid alternative.
All in all, I think Toyota has a decent product in the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and I think the price reflects what you get: lots of room, fuel efficiency, and usability.
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