Hybrid SUV Information

The 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a large SUV that makes use of the company’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system in order to return fuel economy numbers that are more often associated with family sedans rather than heavy trucks. The Highlander’s combination of enormous interior room and respectable fuel mileage make it a popular choice amongst families on the go. Unfortunately for Toyota, this eco-friendly sport utility isn’t as popular as it used to be.

If you are in the market for a brand spankin’ new hybrid SUV with the ability to haul all your friends, your toys and still not spend a fortune at the pump, the 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid is a great pick. Priced from $34,700 to $41,020, this sister to the conventionally fueled Highlander doesn’t vary much in terms of style and options from its counterpart. The hybrid is available in base or limited trims, which can include a sunroof, DVD player, three-zone climate control and a navigation system. The interior layout of this SUV is consistently something we hear drivers raving about; riding or driving in this Toyota hybrid is extremely comfortable. Basically, the 2009 model of this green people hauler is the same as the 2008 Highlander hybrid, with minor changes in the redesigned headlights.

I spoke with Jeff Farley, Sales Manager at Elmhurst Toyota (Chicago suburb) on 10/31/07, and he informed me that their first ‘08 hybrid Highlander suv’s had just arrived.  As we reported last month, most dealers have been out of the 2007 models for quite some time - so this is welcome news for auto dealerships and for all the people who have either been waiting, or holding out for the new hybrid model.

Toyota has been the undisputed industry leader in pioneering hybrid vehicle technology worldwide.  Their flagship hybrid has always been, and remains today - the Prius, which recently celebrated its 10th year in the U.S.  In June 2005, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid SUV was released for the 2006 model year, and during it’s first full year of U.S. sales, more than 31,000 were sold (second only to which other hybrid?…the Prius).