The exterior styling of the new 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is macho and rugged. It does not look very different from the typical Highlander model. The Highlander is among the top selling and popular SUVs from the stable of Toyota. However, the Toyota wants to capture a larger share of SUV market by revamping the lineup with a hybrid model.
There are quite a few hybrid car models in the market now but you do not get too many large sized hybrid SUVs with three rows, as it is. So, you may eye the 2018 Highlander Hybrid SUV if a fuel-efficient midsized SUV is on your agenda.
2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid – Trims and Design
The new 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid will be available in 4 trims- Le, XLE, Limited and the top end Limited platinum. The interior is quite roomy and based on what trim you pick, lavish as well. You get plenty of cargo space and small storage items are there too. However, the third row of seats is not exactly adult friendly- the kids can be comfortable though.
The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid comes equipped with enough safety and entertainment related features, as it is.
The base LE trim gets 18-inch wheels, UV reduction glass, 6.1-inch touch screen, Projector-beam halogen headlamps, six-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, keyless entry and automatic tri-zone climate control. In terms of safety, it gets lane departure intervention, automatic emergency braking, rearview camera and adaptive cruise control.
The XLE trim gets features like a sunroof, 8.1-inch touchscreen, Chromtec roof rails, navigation system, HD radio and leather upholstery. It also gets laden with blind-spot monitoring and 18-in. alloy wheels. Limited trim gets equipped with 19-inch wheels, JBL sound system, Blue LED ambient lighting and rear parking sensors, LED running lights, and ventilated front seats. Top notch Limited Platinum trim gets laden with the panoramic sunroof, 360-degree parking camera, front parking sensors, automatic wipers and heated steering wheel.
2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid – Powertrain and Acceleration
The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is powered by a 3,5 V6 engine making 295 HP and electric motors. The front axle permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor will produce 167 hp and rear axle permanent-magnet synchronous 68 hp, the combined output is 306 hp. The LE trim offers maximum mileage- 30 MPG. However, do not get too excited as real-world fuel economy will depend on various factors. Ultimately, you may end up with same fuel economy as the regular version of Highlander.
The powertrain is handled by an eight-speed automatic gearbox. It is quite fast and reaches 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds- not bad given its large footprint. However, ride quality is not category best.
Cost, Launch Date and Conclusion
The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid pricing begins at $37.000. It will be unveiled in late 2017 though the exact timing is not known. The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid scores more on being a mid-sized utilitarian SUV with versatile usage capability than a green technology-driven one.
The styling is nice and the cabin is quite practically designed. However, on mileage front, it scores just average. The Toyota has used a lot of safety features across all trims and in amenities, the SUV does not disappoint. Price wise it sits a tad above its regular version which may impact its appeal.
