The idea of slapping a hybrid system on an SUV seems absolutely logical, maybe even more so than on a small car, as it really improves the former’s fuel efficiency. What’s more, it takes away the guilt associated with driving such a big ride.
The system works in several phases, in electric mode during moderate acceleration up to 40 km/h, in combined mode at highway speeds, recharging during deceleration and braking and in electric mode when reversing. The system allows for an average consumption rating of 8 litres per 100 km, very impressive considering the format.
Add to that a heat engine that sleeps soundly through start-up and when the car is stopped. The Highlander isn’t any noisier than a pacemaker. This is made all the more true by the very high level of insulation, sound and otherwise.
The other mechanical components are typical of Toyota, and since we’re not talking about a Celica, utterly sleep inducing. Suspension is soft but allows for a comfortable ride while giving the impression of being in a much smaller vehicle. The automatic transmission is very discrete, switching gears almost imperceptibly.
The all-wheel-drive does a good job, but be aware that you’re not driving an SUV of Jeep or Land Rover calibre – it’s much more sedate. In the winter, though, the system is efficient enough to make the drive that much safer.
Steering is like a nursing home at midnight: fast asleep. It doesn’t translate any feeling and the electromagnetically assisted rack does nothing for the cause. The brakes, which also double as a battery charger, are good, but don’t overuse them.
Competition
The Highlander Hybrid is almost alone in its class apart from a little in-house competition coming from the Lexus RX 450h (starting at $58,900). Mercedes-Benz will take the plunge next year with the ML400 Hybrid (around $65,000), but has fielded for the moment the ML320 BlueTEC 4MATIC (from $61,400). BMW offers the X5 xDrive35d from $62,200, while Volkswagen is pushing the Touareg 2 TDI Comfortline from $48,975. The Highlander Hybrid starts at $42,315.
Conclusion
The Highlander is a great vehicle that can teach us some important life lessons, like how to save money. Unfortunately, it has been so sanitized that driving enjoyment is nonexistent. Too bad, because the Highlander has a lot going for it.
photo:Matthieu Lambert
The system works in several phases, in electric mode during moderate acceleration up to 40 km/h, in combined mode at highway speeds, recharging during deceleration and braking and in electric mode when reversing. The system allows for an average consumption rating of 8 litres per 100 km, very impressive considering the format.
Add to that a heat engine that sleeps soundly through start-up and when the car is stopped. The Highlander isn’t any noisier than a pacemaker. This is made all the more true by the very high level of insulation, sound and otherwise.
The other mechanical components are typical of Toyota, and since we’re not talking about a Celica, utterly sleep inducing. Suspension is soft but allows for a comfortable ride while giving the impression of being in a much smaller vehicle. The automatic transmission is very discrete, switching gears almost imperceptibly.
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| Suspension is soft but allows for a comfortable ride. |
The all-wheel-drive does a good job, but be aware that you’re not driving an SUV of Jeep or Land Rover calibre – it’s much more sedate. In the winter, though, the system is efficient enough to make the drive that much safer.
Steering is like a nursing home at midnight: fast asleep. It doesn’t translate any feeling and the electromagnetically assisted rack does nothing for the cause. The brakes, which also double as a battery charger, are good, but don’t overuse them.
Competition
The Highlander Hybrid is almost alone in its class apart from a little in-house competition coming from the Lexus RX 450h (starting at $58,900). Mercedes-Benz will take the plunge next year with the ML400 Hybrid (around $65,000), but has fielded for the moment the ML320 BlueTEC 4MATIC (from $61,400). BMW offers the X5 xDrive35d from $62,200, while Volkswagen is pushing the Touareg 2 TDI Comfortline from $48,975. The Highlander Hybrid starts at $42,315.
Conclusion
The Highlander is a great vehicle that can teach us some important life lessons, like how to save money. Unfortunately, it has been so sanitized that driving enjoyment is nonexistent. Too bad, because the Highlander has a lot going for it.
photo:Matthieu Lambert
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