2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Trims and Specs

When a well-equipped, five-door, five-passenger, eco-friendly, gas-sipping hybrid crossover seems a logical choice, the 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid fits the bill. This full-time all-wheel-drive bundle of versatility comes complete with such standard appearance, comfort, and convenience features as 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, power accessories, including heated outside mirrors, cruise control, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, front and overhead consoles, air conditioning, split-folding rear seatbacks for a total of 94 cubic feet of cargo space, a rearview camera system, alloy and simulated wood trim, and a single-CD player with six speakers. Optional equipment includes satellite radio, universal remote garage door opener, upgraded audio components, eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and 19-inch wheels. Standard safety features for the Base Hybrid include four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, dual front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, driver’s-side knee airbags, active front headrests, and a post-collision safety system. All this can be complemented with an optional remote anti-theft alarm system, as well.

Powering the 2010 Highlander Hybrid Base trim is a 3.7-liter variable-valve-timed (VVT) V6 and two battery-powered electric motors. This combination is managed by a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to produce 270 hp and 212 lb-ft of torque, good enough to tow 3,500 pounds of trailer and to get an EPA-estimated 27/25 mpg. The Highlander Hybrid can, in true two-mode hybrid operation, be driven on electric power alone at low speeds, and additionally features regenerative braking to help re-charge its nickel-metal hydride battery. With one electric motor dedicated to the front wheels and one to the rear wheels, this handy AWD crossover handles acceleration and traction with comparative ease, no matter the driving conditions.

Adding a number of standard appearance, comfort, and convenience features to an already impressive Base list, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited is only a step or two from being downright luxurious. Leather upholstery, 19-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, heated, power-adjustable front seats, third-row seating, a universal remote garage door opener, and a 6-CD changer are among the extra amenities found in the Highlander Hybrid Limited. Additional options include JBL premium audio components, DVD navigation, rear-seat DVD entertainment, Bluetooth telecommunications technology, and a power sunroof.

Like its Base sibling, the 2010 Highlander Hybrid Limited sports the 3.3-liter variable-valve-timed (VVT) V6 engine and a pair of electric motors that put out some 270 hp and 212 lb-ft of torque under the tutelage of a continuously variable transmission (CVT). One 123-kilowatt electric motor is dedicated to powering the front wheels, while the other, boasting 50 kilowatts, adds extra oomph to the rear wheels. This true two-mode system allows the Highlander Hybrid Limited to be driven at low speeds on electric power alone, also using auto engine-shut-down/start-up to save gas in stop-and-go traffic. As well, the hybrid system features regenerative braking to help recharge its nickel-metal hydride battery.