Thinking green? The 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provides the versatility of a midsize five- to seven-passenger SUV while running cleaner and more quietly than many gas-powered sub-compact cars. Essentially unchanged from 2009, and delivered in two full-time all-wheel-drive (AWD) trim levels, the Base and the Limited, Toyota’s Highlander Hybrid offers a roomy cabin, 94 cubic feet of cargo space, and a load of standard safety, appearance, and convenience features, as well as the usual options and accessories packages. Fuel economy, of course, is a consideration for any hybrid purchase, but in the case of the Highlander Hybrid, a hefty price tag – some $9,000 over that of its gasoline-only siblings – means a mighty long-term commitment to the vehicle before any serious gas money will be saved.

The heart and mind of the 2010 Highlander Hybrid is a 3.3-liter variable-valve-timed, gasoline-powered V6 engine, along with a set of three electric motors, with one motor driving the front wheels, one driving the back wheels, and one for accessories. Combined, the hybrid system is capable of some 270 hp and 212 lb-ft of torque when under the management of the standard continuously variable transmission (CVT). With a regenerative braking system helping to keep its nickel-metal hydride battery charged up, as well as automatic engine stopping and starting and the ability to travel short distances on electric power alone, the Highlander Hybrid offers all the traditional advantages of the two-mode hybrid system. As well, a center-mounted, limited-slip mechanical differential assists with its full-time AWD traction.

The five-passenger 2010 Highlander Hybrid Base features such standard appearance, comfort, and convenience amenities as 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, premium cloth upholstery, reclining rear seats, power windows, door locks, and heated outside mirrors, cruise control, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, air conditioning, rearview camera display, keyless ignition, simulated wood trim accents, and a single-CD player with six speakers. Options for the Hybrid Base trim include 19-inch alloys, a roof rack, third-row seating, power-adjustable driver’s seat, the Hybrid Tow Package with 3,500 pounds of trailering capacity, automatic dual-zone climate control, a 6-CD changer, satellite radio, universal remote transmitter, power liftgate, and step running boards.

For the seven-passenger Highlander Hybrid Limited trim, additional standard features include many of the Base options, such as 19-inch alloy wheels, power liftgate, 6-CD changer, universal remote, and satellite radio, with unique extras like leather-trimmed upholstery, heated power-adjustable front seats, and the Smart Key System with push-button ignition also thrown in. Additional options for the Hybrid Limited include DVD navigation, Bluetooth communications technology, rear-seat DVD entertainment, power moonroof, nine-speaker JBL premium audio, and automatic dual-zone climate control.

Generally considered one of the safest SUVs out there, the 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid lineup features standard four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, dual front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, a post-collision safety system, and hill-start assist with the CVT. A remote anti-theft alarm system is optional for both trims, while the Limited offers standard daytime running lights and CVT-monitored descent control.

Owners of the 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid are rightly impressed with its mileage numbers, but question the high initial outlay. Also drawing the praise of owners are the Highlander Hybrid’s smooth ride, quiet operation, and comfortable seats. However, cramped third-row space and a deficiency of cargo area behind the third-row seats disappoints more than a few owners, as does the poor performance of the available DVD navigation system. Roomy passenger space, remote keyless entry, and the Highlander Hybrid’s standard safety equipment impress many owners, while front and rear visibility issues and tepid exterior styling doesn’t. Versatility, however, is the main reason that many people purchase an SUV, and owners have nothing but praise for this aspect of the Highlander Hybrid.