2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Toyota’s Highlander Hybrid for 2009 remains essentially unchanged from the popular and radically redesigned ’08 version. Like its conventionally powered siblings, the '09 Highlander Hybrid can claim a less-than-drastic headlight redesign as its only significant styling difference from the ’08.

But why mess with a good thing? The ’09 Highlander Hybrid retains its 3.3-liter, DOHC, 24-valve V6. When used in its primary mode, this engine puts out a respectable 209 hp. Combine this with electric motors driving the front and rear wheels, in addition to what Toyota calls its “electrically controlled continuously variable transmission” (ECCVT), and you’ve just added another 61 hp, equaling that of the gasoline-powered Highlander. Because one electric motor drives the front wheels and the second motor the rear wheels, the Highlander Hybrid is offered only with all-wheel drive.

The Highlander Hybrid’s fuel-economy ratings remain at an EPA estimated 27/25 mpg city/hwy, though some drivers claim over 30 mpg on average. Very good numbers, indeed, for a crossover SUV.

The engineering that went into the Highlander Hybrid is based on the gas-electric propulsion technology originally developed by Toyota for the wildly popular Prius. The Prius, however, is generally considered underpowered by conventional standards; after all, being “green” does have its price. Not so with the Highlander Hybrid. Being a much larger, family-oriented vehicle, it demands a larger powerplant. Thus, the dual electric drive motors – plus a third electric motor that serves as a generator and engine starter – and the ECCVT provide the power to move the Highlander Hybrid from the stoplight to the passing lane smoothly and with alacrity.

Many reviewers found the transition from gas to electric, and vice versa, to be quite smooth, even “flawless” in the Highlander Hybrid. Acceleration from electric power (EV) to gas is described as “brisk,” but one reviewer complained of “torque-steering” and “jumpiness.” The Econ mode is designed to alleviate some of this “jumpiness” when used properly.

Do not, in any case, try to take the Highlander Hybrid off road. Gas-electric technology has never been known to take much of a pounding. The major reason, apparently, that the '09 Highlander Hybrid is offered only in Base and Limited trims is the company's belief that a Sport trim hybrid might lead to false expectations.

Though well-equipped in its Base trim, the Highlander Hybrid's Limited trim offers JBL Premium Audio with both Sirius and XM satellite radio programming and a nav system as standard equipment. The Limited also boasts 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, roof rails, leather seating, and chrome accents.

By Eric Tallberg