HYBRID 2000

2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid-Side View

Inspired by the Highlander SUV, Toyota has come out with the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, thus joining the hybrid car bandwagon. With escalating fuel costs, a hybrid car is expected from every manufacturer today. And Toyota is never behind when it comes to incorporating the best technology and comfort features. With this new gas-electric hybrid car, Toyota earns laurels for the eco-friendly move. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid combines a regular fuel engine with a high torque electric motor system which runs the vehicle together for best results. But the two systems are also individually capable of running the Highlander. For lower emissions and impressive fuel economy in an SUV backed by the Toyota stamp of reliability, the Highlander Hybrid is good value for the MSRP of $34,700 to $41,020.

Base and Limited trims are available and these come with all wheel drive configuration only. Toyota’s hallmark Hybrid Synergy Drive delivers again with the Highlander Hybrid, operating at an efficient fuel economy of 27/25 mpg in city/highway. Both the Base and the Limited trims are equipped with a 3.3 liter V6 engine that works at 209 hp. It has been observed that most vehicles are not driven at full capacity regularly. So the 209 hp is not required all the time. But with the Highlander Hybrid’s continuously variable speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, the shift and consequently fuel is handled expertly. The hybrid makes the best of both types of engine systems for maximum convenience. With a maximum towing capacity of 3500 pounds, the 2009 Hybrid isn’t lacking in strength.

The 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid brings no major changes from the 2008 version. The Base comes with air conditioning, rear view camera monitor, and 17 inch alloy wheels. With the Limited trim, you get heated front seats and leather upholstery, bench seats for 3rd row, power rear liftgate and 19 inch alloy wheels. Standard seating capacity is 5 seats but with bench seating, capacity increases to 7 seats.

For driver front, the Highlander Hybrid gets a 5 on 5, while it scores 4 on 5 for passenger front in NHTSA Frontal Crash Test for injury protection. Anti-whiplash front head restraints, traction control system, electronic stability control system, anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake assist, overhead curtain airbags and side-impact airbags (for front) make up the standard safety features in the 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

For convenience, style and performance in an environmentally friendly package, go for the Toyota Highlander.

2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Specs and Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

• Wheelbase, in. 109.8
• Overall Length, in. 188.4
• Overall Width, in. 75.2
• Overall Height, in. 69.3
• Curb Weight, lbs. 3979
• Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 95.4
• Standard Payload, lbs. –
• Fuel Capacity, gals. 19.2
• Seating Capacity 7
• Front Head Room, in. 40.6
• Max. Front Leg Room, in. 43.2
• Rear Head Room, in. 40.1
• Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 38.3

Model Prices
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge

1. 2WD Base 4-cylinder 4-door wagon $27,600 $24,564 $745
2. AWD Base 4-cylinder 4-door wagon $29,050 $25,854 $745
3. 2WD Sport 4-door wagon $30,000 $26,700 $745
4. AWD Sport 4-door wagon $31,450 $27,990 $745
5. 2WD Limited 4-door wagon $33,070 $29,431 $745
6. AWD Limited 4-door wagon $34,520 $30,722 $745
7. AWD Base Hybrid 4-door wagon $34,700 $31,230 $745