2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review
The Highlander is a midsize CUV that first that debuted in 2001 offering the room of an SUV with a car chassis underneath for better handling. The Hybrid version was introduced in 2006 along with a sport trim. The Highlander won a variety of awards when it debuted, including Car and Driver’s “Best Large SUV” in 2001.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid improves on the already excellent Highlander, giving it a big boost in fuel economy. While it’s a great vehicle, you may be turned off by its high price, limited options and the fact that it’s less fuel efficient than some other SUV hybrids. But if you’re already interested in the Highlander, the hybrid gives you a great option for more gas mileage.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Highlander 4.5 stars in mechanical quality, 3.5 stars in design quality, and 2.5 stars for performance and design. Problems with the first generation include faulty skid-control computers and engine noise. Three major recalls were issued for air sucked into the master cylinder, possible nozzle breaks in crashes and faulty child locks. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Highlander Hybrid earned 4.5 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. It earned perfect IIHS scores and is one of their 2008 “Top Safety Picks.” Anti-lock brakes, hill-assist, full side airbags, a driver-knee airbag, a backup camera, and stability and traction control come standard. AWD is available.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Spacious
+ More efficient than the regular Highlander
+ Safe and reliable
Cons
- Expensive
- Less efficient than other SUV hybrids
- Limited in options and features
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Ford Escape Hybrid gets up to seven more miles to the gallon in the city and costs several thousand less, but has less room for passengers. The Mercury Mariner Hybrid, at around the same price delivers seven more miles in the city and five more miles on the highway, but also has less passenger room. The Saturn VUE Green Line Hybrid has more cargo space and gets up to seven more highway miles.
What Others Are Saying:
“Larger and roomier than before, a redesigned Toyota Highlander Hybrid is both family friendly and fuel frugal.” – Forbes
“We failed to find much that was special about our 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid and even with few options, it was expensive. Its hybrid system is its best feature, justifying most of the price. The Limited model is nicer in every way and can be optioned with navigation and a better stereo.” – C|Net
“Subjectivity aside, the 2008 Highlander is a flexible flyer with ample appeal to freedom-loving urbanites. It even appealed to me, a single guy with as much use for an SUV as a duck has for an umbrella.” – About.com
Read more about the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid at the Toyota manufacturer web site.
