The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, first introduced for the 2007 model year, earned the distinction of being the first mass-market hybrid with seating for seven passengers. Every generation of the Highlander Hybrid has three rows of seats, which makes for excellent family transportation, although the third row tends to be a little cramped and best suited to kids. When you need the additional room, folding down the second and third rows opens up an impressive amount of cargo space.
While options for early models were limited, the Highlander Hybrid quickly became the first choice for buyers looking for quality, reliable transport. Combined with dependable and efficient powertrains, this hybrid SUV is a difficult combination to beat, while optional all-wheel drive systems deliver extra grip and confidence when the road gets slippery.
Safety has always been priority, with each generation earning top crash test ratings from the IIHS and the NHTSA. This commitment to safety started with the first generation in 2007, with standard side airbags, and all Highlander Hybrids come with standard ABS and vehicle stability control systems. Newer models are equipped with the latest Toyota SafetySense suite of driver assistance systems.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Buying Guide: Cost, Reliability, and the Best Years to Buy
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid Pros and Cons
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid Generations
- Fourth Generation (2020-present)
- Third Generation (2014-2019)
- Second Generation (2008-2013)
- First Generation (2006-2007)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Toyota Highlander Hybrid years are the best?
The third- and fourth-generation Highlander Hybrids are great buys. The third generation, built from 2013 to 2019, is great value, with a less efficient nonetheless reliable V6 gasoline engine. The fourth generation, from 2020 on, uses a more efficient four-cylinder gasoline engine that delivers impressive fuel economy for a large family crossover.
What are the worst Toyota Highlander Hybrid years?
The first-generation Highlander Hybrid, produced from 2006 to 2007, is the worst. Hybrid technology was relatively novel at the time, and there were some common problems to watch out for. Compared to a modern crossover, the first generation is small, with cramped third-row seats.
Is a used Toyota Highlander Hybrid a good deal?
Yes, the Highlander Hybrid can be a good deal. Thanks to its popularity, demand is high, which can make finding the best deal difficult, and the latest fourth-generation model is holding its value quite well, with new cars commanding a premium.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lots of space and three rows of seats
- Typical Toyota reliability and dependability
- Efficient hybrid powertrain
Cons:
- Not the most exciting car to drive
- Tight third-row accommodations
- Limited towing capacity
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Generations
Fourth Generation (2020-present)
The fourth-generation Highlander Hybrid was launched for the 2020 model year. Gone was the six-cylinder engine from the previous generation, replaced by a four-cylinder hybrid powertrain paired with a CVT automatic transmission. A front-wheel drive (FWD) drivetrain was standard, while an all-wheel drive (AWD) model was optional.
Interestingly, the latest AWD system was a little different from a traditional system. Instead of using a transfer case to link the front and rear axles, Toyota employed a third electric motor to drive the rear axle, which gave the Highlander Hybrid the traction of all-wheel drive and much improved efficiency. The EPA estimates the AWD version at 35 miles per gallon combined, only one less than the FWD version.
Outside, the fourth generation Highlander Hybrid got handsome styling with chiseled fenders and an assertive stance, and the all-hybrid model lineup was launched with four trims: LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum.
Inside, the Highlander Hybrid offered a smart cabin with three rows of seats. Depending on the trim, it came standard with cloth seats or leather on the higher Limited and Platinum trims. Lower-end versions came standard with a second row bench seat, providing seating for eight, while the higher-end trims got captain’s chair second-row seats and an available panoramic moonroof.
Every version had an impressive amount of technology and safety features as standard, including Android Auto or Apple CarPlay compatibility, either through an eight-inch touchscreen or a 12.3-inch touchscreen on the Highlander Hybrid Limited or Highlander Hybrid Platinum trims.
Even better, all fourth-generation Highlander Hybrids got Toyota SafetySense 2.0 as standard. This system included a full suite of driving safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring.
Changes were few and far between over the years. For 2025, the Highlander Hybrid was only available with the e-AWD system, while a power liftgate was standardized for the 2024 model year—which was also when the Grand Highlander was introduced, providing an option for buyers looking for more space. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were introduced for the 2023 model year.
Fourth-generation Highlander Hybrids are incredibly reliable vehicles, with no major problems to report. As always, check the maintenance records, as a vehicle that has been well cared for is often more important than low mileage.
The new car MSRP for the base XLE with standard AWD started at $46,020 at the time of writing, topping out at $53,675 for the Platinum trim. Average used prices are strong, with values for the 2020 model year around $33,000, depending on mileage and condition. The pre-facelift Highlander Hybrid XLE front-wheel drive model can be a more affordable sweet spot, as the AWD version commands a premium at dealerships.
Third Generation (2014-2019)
The third-generation Highlander Hybrid was released for the 2014 model year, and it was much bigger than its predecessor, with sleek new styling. Designed with growing families in mind, it could comfortably seat eight passengers and had with a sliding second-row bench seat. Higher trim levels had optional second row captain’s chairs, for easier access to the third-row bench.
All models were equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 mated to Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive hybrid system and an automatic transmission. Toyota’s AWD-i system was standard, too, with a third electric motor driving the rear axle. Like the fourth generation AWD system, this one wasn’t mechanically linked front to rear, so it also lacked a transfer case
The family-friendly Highlander Hybrid was nicely appointed inside, with a leather dash, a leather steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The cargo capacity was usable when all three rows were up, and impressive with the second- and third-row seats folded down.
Launched as a premium offering, the Highlander Hybrid was only available in a Limited trim with an optional Platinum package, which added active driver aids such as blind spot monitoring and steering assist. The Platinum package also threw in a JBL audio system and a panoramic sunroof, for an even more luxurious feel, although it’s worth noting that when the sunroof is equipped, the rear seat DVD system is removed.
Toyota refreshed the Highlander Hybrid for the 2017 model year, with a restyled front fascia, new headlights, and new taillights. Under the hood, the gasoline engine was updated and now identical to the non-hybrid version, producing the same 295 horsepower. Entry-level Highlander Hybrid LE and XLE trims were introduced, which the Hybrid more accessible, and Toyota SafetySense became standard for all trims.
The third-generation Highlander Hybrid is generally a reliable vehicle, and there are few problems to report. The 2017 to 2019 model years, with the updated V6 engine, are more prone to oil leaks that the earlier 2014 to 2016 versions, while the 2014 and 2015 models can have problems with the rear power hatch. Finally, check the maintenance records, because coolant for the hybrid battery must be changed regularly, and is easily overlooked at maintenance intervals.
Expect to pay around $19,000 to $23,000 for pre-facelift 2014 to 2016 models, while the updated 2017 to 2019 versions command around $25,000 to $30,000, although prices obviously vary depending on mileage, condition, and trim level.
Second Generation (2008-2013)
The second-generation Highlander Hybrid, introduced for the 2008 model year, was bigger and more capable than its forebear. The powertrain was mostly carried over from the first generation and comprised a 3.3-liter V6 gasoline engine, a trio of electric motors, and standard all-wheel drive. It was just as powerful as the non-hybrid version and, like the third and fourth generations, used an electric motor for the rear axle instead of transfer cases and driveshafts to mechanically link the front and rear wheels.
Based on the popular Camry platform, the new Highlander Hybrid is four inches longer, three inches wider than its predecessor, and its wheelbase was stretched by three inches, which translated to a noticeable increase in passenger space and comfort. This second generation was designed as a three-row SUV that could fit adults in the third row and, with the second and third rows folded down, the Highlander could accommodate a surprising amount of cargo.
Despite the increase in size and weight, the second generation was just as efficient as its smaller predecessor. Thanks to standard all-wheel drive, the Highlander Hybrid could tow up to 3,500 pounds—enough for a lightweight camper.
Two trim levels were available upon release—base and Limited. The base model came with cloth seats and a relatively bare bones interior, but the Limited got leather seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and an upgraded audio system. Generally, the Highlander Hybrid was almost indistinguishable from its gasoline counterparts, even from the driver’s seat, and the biggest difference was the power gauge in the instrument cluster, replacing a traditional tachometer, plus discreet hybrid badging.
The 2011 model year brought a thorough mid-cycle refresh. From the front, the Highlander Hybrid received new headlights, a new grille, and new chrome accents, and a new 3.5-liter V6 engine was installed under the hood, delivering a further 10 horsepower and improved fuel efficiency. Inside, the Tech package added Bluetooth functionality for wireless audio and hands-free calling.
The second-generation Highlander Hybrid is generally reliable. Both V6 engines are prone to oil leaks, so take a look underneath, while the hybrid battery can be damaged if it overheats, and replacements can cost thousands. Check the vents for the battery cooling system to make sure they’re not obstructed.
Prices for the pre-facelift 2008 to 2010 model years average around $10,000, while the facelift 2011 to 2013 models average around $14,000.
First Generation (2006-2007)
Introduced for the 2006 model year, the Highlander Hybrid was launched along with the mid-cycle refresh of the standard gas-powered Toyota Highlander. Toyota combined the Hybrid Synergy Drive system to the standard 3.3-liter V6 engine, powering either the front wheels or an optional all-wheel drive system, and the original model was almost indistinguishable from its gasoline-only sibling.
Standard third-row seats made the first-generation Hylander Hybrid the first mass-production, seven-passenger hybrid vehicle. Available in either in base or Limited trim, the Highlander Hybrid was a premium offering. The Limited came with an impressive list of standard features, such as leather seats and alloy wheels, and the only option was a DVD-based touch screen navigation system—high tech stuff for 2006.
The unique all-wheel drive was optional on both trims. Instead of using a traditional 4x4 system with a transfer case and driveshafts to link all four wheels, the Highlander Hybrid employed a second electric motor to drive the rear axle. The result was an impressive boost to fuel economy, while improving traction in slippery conditions.
Fuel economy was significantly improved compared to the gas-powered version, rated at 31 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, and the Highlander Hybrid was the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class, beating competition from Honda and Kia. Combined with a spacious interior, it was a great eco-friendly family hauler.
First-generation models can have problems with the hybrid system. The inverter is a common failure point, while the condition of the hybrid battery can be a concern due to the age of the first-generation models, and repair or replacement costs can quickly exceed the value of the car.
Prices for the first-generation Highlander Hybrids average around $8,000 depending on the mileage and trim level. The Limited trim, with its leather seats and navigation system, will command a premium, especially with below-average mileage.
