Is the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Actually Efficient?
In recent years, hybrid SUVs have become a pretty popular option for families and those who lead an active lifestyle. You still get the utility and space of a larger vehicle while getting the benefits of a hybrid powertrain. And the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid represents a solid value if that is what you are after. Plus, the Highlander Hybrid is still a three-row SUV, which means its well equipped to handle things like passengers and gear.
How efficient is the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
In terms of efficiency, the EPA estimates that the Toyota Highland Hybrid has 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. This makes it more efficient than the standard Highlander, that is if you get the front-wheel drive variant. The Highlander Hybrid is available with both FWD and all-wheel drive, and the AWD will likely take a hit on efficiency.
While the normal Highlander comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes 295 horsepower, the hybrid model uses a different setup. It benefits from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is mated to two electric motors. This powerplant makes 243 hp, which should be ample enough to move a hybrid SUV of this size.
Is the 2022 Highlander Hybrid safe?
According to Car and Driver, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid does come standard with an array of standard driver assist features. These standard features include things like:
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane-departure warning with lane-keep assist
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross-traffic alert
If that’s not enough, you can opt for other active safety features. But, it is nice that Toyota offers standard safety features to this hybrid SUV, considering families will likely be interested in it.
How expensive is Toyota’s hybrid SUV?
When it comes to cost, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has an MSRP of $39,555. The hybrid model is available in a range of trim levels, so the price will vary depending on which one you are interested in. The 2022 Highlander Hybrid XLE seems to represent a pretty good value proposition.
The XLE trim comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also offers a power moonroof and wireless phone charging. Plus, you get automatic climate control with heated front seats. And that should be appreciated by those who live in colder climates.
Should you buy a Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
If you are interested in a new Highlander but don’t want something that is too inefficient, the Highlander Hybrid makes a good alternative. Toyota has been in the hybrid space for some time, and the brand has invested quite a bit in its hybrid technology. I mean, when you think about a hybrid car, it is likely that the Toyota Prius is what comes to your mind.
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE has an MSRP of $42,555 before options. But for that price, you get three rows of seating and a fairly well-packaged vehicle. So, if you have the budget and need a three-row SUV, this Toyota should be on your radar.
