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Toyota hybrid SUV gets 10 percent better highway mileage

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Alex Law
Premium on Highlander is $6,645 and up
The Highlander Hybrid is powered by a new version of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) powertrain, ''specifically developed to meet the demands of an intermediate SUV.''

This HSD features an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) and Toyota's first-ever application of on-demand electronic four-wheel-drive with intelligence (4WD-i).

The 3.3-litre V6 ''works seamlessly with a high-torque electric drive motor-generator developing a peak system output equivalent to 268 hp and zero to sixty acceleration in 7.3 seconds.

''Toyota is the acknowledged leader in hybrid technology,'' claims Tony Wearing, one of Toyota Canada's three managing directors, ''and the Highlander Hybrid uses our most advanced hybrid powertrain to date. Add to that the enhanced safety benefits of VDIM, and the utility of third row seating, and the result is a new benchmark in performance, fuel economy, safety and versatility in the class.''
photo:Toyota Canada
Alex Law
Alex Law
Automotive expert