2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Reviews
There's an automatic transmission, automatic 4x4 system, front and side airbags and a capable V6 engine under the hood. It's got an interesting piece of optional equipment though- Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system.
It's a typical Toyota SUV in here- roomy and spacious, reasonably comfortable, and with great visibility in any direction--It's the sort of stop-and-go driving that takes place here where hybrid vehicles tend to shine.
A 3.3 litre V6 engine is fitted up front. There are also battery packs which power an electric drive system used exclusively to propel the vehicle during low-speed, or light-throttle conditions.
For the non-engineer, the term “powertrain” describes the complete engine/transmission combination, and in a hybrid they are truly one highly integrated unit. The Highlander’s 3.3-liter V6 internal combustion engine is matched to a highly complex transmission that is actually a pair of electric motors.
Electrifying Performance This kind of power makes the Highlander Hybrid really quick--truly as fast as anybody would want an SUV to be. First, in the never-ending balance between delivering performance and economy, Toyota biases their hybrids (except the Prius) toward delivering better performance. Also, current hybrids tend to realize the biggest economy boost in city-type driving where battery power can provide propulsion.
When it comes to the Highlander Hybrid, this mid-size SUV is worth considering even if you’re not looking for a hybrid.
The following are things that drivers will notice over time, and if you’re considering the Highlander, specifically the Hybrid model, you should know the following:
Most of the time, the Highlander Hybrid drives like a “regular” car or SUV--The brakes on the Hybrid feel different than a non-hybrid vehicle. Even though our Highlander Hybrid featured four-wheel drive (the internal combustion engine and transmission/motor combo drives the front wheels while another electric motor powers the rear wheels), in very shallow sand while still on the access road to the beach, the Highlander stranded itself immediately. While Toyota corrected this oversight on gasoline powered Highlanders for 2008, on 08 Highlander Hybrids, there is still no “off” switch for the traction control.
If you’re in the market for an SUV, consider the "Highlander Hybrid", but do so for the right reasons. If you’re looking to drive a hybrid that compromises nothing in performance, the Highlander is an excellent choice. The duo from Ford utilizes a 4-cylinder engine in their hybrid powertrain, so their mileage is considerably higher (34 city/30 highway).
