2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review
The Toyota Highlander crossover SUV was introduced in 2001. It is based on the midsize Toyota Camry, and was the first midsize SUV to be based on the architecture of a car. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid was introduced in 2006, and was the first seven-seat hybrid SUV in America. The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is run by a 3.5-liter V6 and three electric motors that produce a healthy 280 horsepower.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provides the seating capacity of a full-size SUV with the fuel economy of a smaller vehicle. Although the Hybrid version of the Highlander is marginally more expensive than the standard gasoline-powered version, it remains a dependable and economical choice for a large family vehicle.
What’s New For 2012:
The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid now features a rear climate control and a third row seat as standard equipment.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has an impressive history of reliability. Models that were produced from 2005 to 2007 reportedly had moderate problems with the engine and the ignition/starter system. No similar problems were reported on succeeding models of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. It even received an above average score of 3.5 out of 5 in J.D. Power and Associates’ Initial Quality Study.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid got an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars from the NHTSA. It also got the highest score of ‘Good’ from the IIHS in side impact and front-offset and side impact crash tests. Every Highlander Hybrid is equipped with antilock brakes, traction/stability control, front side/side curtain airbags and a driver-knee airbag.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Best-in-class fuel economy
+ Roomy interior
+ Impressive acceleration for a hybrid vehicle
Cons
– Steep base price
– Tight third-row seating
Head-To-Head Competition:
The luxury-oriented Lexus RX450h costs $7000 more and it only offers seating for five people. The GMC Yukon Hybrid costs around $13,000 more but it is bigger and more spacious despite a relatively poor 20/23 MPG economy rating. The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid returns a rather impressive 28/28 MPG while the Lexus RX450h achieves 32/28 MPG despite the limited seating capacity.
What Others Are Saying:
"While not precisely duplicating the Camry, the Highlander Hybrid’s four-wheel independent suspension provides a ride that is noticeably superior to truck-based SUVs." – HybridCars.com
"Unlike some other environmentally friendly models, the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has enough oomph under the hood to deliver satisfying acceleration." – Edmunds.com
"The Highlander Hybrid has a lot going for it: best-in-class fuel economy, strong acceleration and a smooth, comfortable ride." – Automobilemag.com
Read more about the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid at the Toyota manufacturer site.
