The hybrid’s 27/25 mpg fuel economy leads the affordable midsize SUV class and is definitely an improvement over the conventional Highlander’s 20/27 mpg rating. However, it would still take many years (probably even more than most people would keep the car) to make up for the cost of that $9,000 premium in gas savings — prompting many reviewers to say the Highlander Hybrid isn’t worth it unless you’re a die-hard environmentalist.
Several other hybrid SUVs offer even better fuel economy at lower prices. The Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid boast 34/31 mpg ratings that top nearly every other SUV on the market. Even better, they cost about $5,000 less than the Highlander Hybrid. However, these are both compact SUVs and don’t offer third-row seats. In fact, the Toyota is the only hybrid in its class to offer seating for seven, so it may be the best deal if a third-row seat is essential for you. Note that the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon Hybrids also seat seven, but they’re in the large SUV class and cost about $15,000 more than the Toyota.
The Highlander Hybrid is unchanged for 2010. Be sure to check out our Toyota deals for current incentives. The Highlander Hybrid is available in two trims — the base and Limited — with either five- or seven-seat configurations. It comes only in all-wheel drive.
Highlander Hybrid
Highlander Hybrid
Highlander Hybrid
Highlander Hybrid
Highlander Hybrid
