2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The redesigned 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is larger on the outside, noticeably roomier on the inside, and several hundred pounds heavier than the model it replaces. Despite the additional size and bulk, when calculated using the stricter 2008 EPA fuel economy test procedures, the 2007 and 2008 Highlander Hybrid models deliver identical mileage; 27 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg for combined driving.

Adding the rugged FJ Cruiser to the truck-based 4Runner and car-based Highlander last year gave Toyota three entries in the mid-size SUV segment. From a model diversity perspective, increasing the size of the crossover Highlander makes sense. The larger Highlander’s spacious interior is now more family-friendly, offering increased leg, hip, shoulder, and headroom. Innovations like a Center Stow Seat in the second row, which transforms the three-passenger bench to a pair of captain’s chairs with easy pass-through to the third row seat, will be a big hit in the family segment. On the outside, Toyota made numerous changes to distinguish the hybrid model from the gasoline-only Highlander. It will be offered in Highlander and Limited trim levels, both featuring on-demand 4-wheel drive with intelligence (4WDi) standard.

We recently drove pre-production versions of the 2008 Highlander Hybrid that’s scheduled to go on sale in October. Based on the new Camry platform, the new Highlander feels tighter and more refined. On the road, the stiffer architecture delivers a quieter ride with improved noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) qualities. Electric power steering is light to the touch, not over-assisted, and road feel is quite good. 

The 2008 Highlander Hybrid utilizes essentially the same propulsion system as the model it replaces. Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive pairs a 3.3-liter double overhead cam V-6, a powerplant that produces a satisfying 208 horsepower and 212 lbs-ft of torque, with front and rear motor generators for a combined output of 270 horsepower. The added weight isn’t readily apparent in vehicle acceleration without calibrated testing. We expect 0-60 mph acceleration to suffer by a few tenths of a second, but it’s not noticeable by seat-of-the-pants comparisons. The 2008 Highlander Hybrid earns California Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) and federal Tier-2 Bin-3 ratings.

Recognizing the fact that zealous hybrid owners like to run on electric only power as much as possible for maximum efficiency, Toyota equipped the 2008 Highlander with an “EV” button to provide greater driver control of the hybrid system. When EV is selected and critical system conditions are met – full battery charge, temperatures in check, a low vehicle speed – the Hybrid will be propelled solely by the electric motor generator for a short time, or until acceleration demands increase or recharging through the gas engine is necessary.

Highlander Hybrid is currently the second best selling hybrid in the U.S., moving more than 31,000 vehicles per year and coming in second only to the Prius in sales. We look forward to a real-world evaluation of a production 2008 Highlander Hybrid as soon as they’re available for testing.