Not everyone needs a flashy off-road vehicle; the best SUVs often fly under the radar. The Toyota Hybrid doesn’t carry much cultural clout compared to SUVs like the . With reasonable styling and a good reputation, it’s relatively anonymous in its segment. Its RAV4 sibling also tends to get more attention (and sales). But the 2023 Highlander Hybrid is more than a pedestrian crossover—it’s a good, compelling SUV package that deserves a second look.
What is special about the Highlander Hybrid?
You won’t find retro styling or off-road capability in the Highlander Hybrid. Instead, Toyota has created an SUV that’s good at everything else. The Highlander has few weaknesses, from road trip comfort to daily commute safety. It’s an SUV with the features people need for the real-life stuff.
Highlander Hybrid drivers can expect to see combined fuel efficiency in the order of 35 mpg.
But the Highlander Hybrid powertrain is anything but anemic. In fact, it produces 243 horsepower. That’s more than enough to keep up with traffic and feel comfortable at interstate speeds, all while sipping fuel.
2. It is more spacious than the RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is a sales treasure for Toyota. But its dimensions have inherent limitations. and you will see that the former is more spacious and flexible.
The Highlander Hybrid is the perfect place to spend time with second row passengers. It offers exceptional legroom in the second row: even adults will have plenty of room. The second row bench seat also tilts and slides to further fine-tune comfort. While the third row isn’t as spacious, it expands the total seating capacity to eight passengers.
Versatile storage capabilities are also standard on the Highlander Hybrid. Fold down the rear seats and you have a maximum capacity of 84.3 cubic feet, according to Kelley Blue Book.
3. The Highlander Hybrid has a high degree of safety
The new Highlander Hybrid is among the . Kelley Blue Book says the 2023 Highlander Hybrid earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. It is the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s top vehicle safety rating. IIHS conducts dozens of collision and other safety tests to evaluate every new vehicle that hits American roads. The Highlander Hybrid arrived with the highest score available.
Is the Highlander Hybrid better than the Highlander?
The Highlander and Highlander Hybrid share most of the same features and attributes. However, the performance boost of an electric motor can give the Highlander Hybrid an edge. Its fuel efficiency and impressive total range make it perfect for off-road road trips or the daily commute.
