When the Highlander Hybrid debuted in 2005 as, model 2006 which is a mid-size SUV first hybrid ever sold in the U.S. market. Five years later, if you are looking for excellent fuel economy, up to seven passengers and vehicles that can tow 3500 pounds, which remains their only option.
In 2008, a completely redesigned Toyota Highlander Hybrid, which gives more elegant and more body, keeping the fuel consumption of its predecessor. Critics love the added space, safety ratings impressive and stylish storage compartments.
For model year 2011, the Highlander Hybrid has revised out, and under the hood, and unmatched in its class, this car is ready for the continued dominance of the "great family who love hybrid "market.
New gas-electric Highlander is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 is new, replacing the 3.3-liter six predecessors. Dual overhead cams Atkinson cycle engine (fuel-efficient version of a four-stroke Otto cycle engines traditional) is rated 231 horsepower, an increase of 22 horsepower in the 2010 edition. In addition, two electric motors join the powertrain, one in front and one behind, increasing the total power to 280 is quite reputable. There is a third electric motor operates only as a starter. The entire system is connected to a continuously variable transmission, which is designed to handle various sources of energy in a way that maximizes efficiency is the Highlander Hybrid.
For more emphasis on efficiency, Toyota Highlander Hybrid is equipped with both "EV" and "Economic" driving mode. EV, hybrid works exclusively with electricity, but only at low speed and mileage. The most practical "Econ" mode of working to limit the throttle response in order to promote greater fuel economy. In other words, limiting the engine to run at their full potential. The ideal time to use this function to stop-and-go traffic.
The results when combined with an electronic magic new V6 EPA fuel rating of mileage of 28 mpg city and 28 mpg on the highway. It depends on the number of years ago of 27 mpg and 25 mpg respectively. And want to ask how they did it and add 10 more horsepower.
Although the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a four-wheel drive is not very suitable for poor road or weather conditions. Usually operates in front-wheel drive, and configured very differently from the version of the all-wheel-drive Highlander non-hybrid, supporting more power to the rear wheels. In the end, Highlander Hybrid be a very capable family / environment / car, but not ideal for those in need of a utility truck, a high power demands climate or terrain.
Exterior
In terms of design and style, the 2011 Highlander hood update includes a completely new engine, fenders and front bumper. Hybrid model is different from fuel models with unique grille and bumper design. Sharing a new hood and fenders with gas Highlander, but an important feature of color with chrome rocker panels, as well as vertically stacked fog lamps. Projector beam lights and redesigned taillights feature blue lens covers.
Hybrid models are authorized by a single inch of ground except all-wheel drive Highlander SUV standards, so that the input and output is more like a minivan. The basic model is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Limited has 19-inch alloy wheels and power rear liftgate.
Although the changes in style, head of the Highlander does not change much, but otherwise, it should not. But looks are very attractive features that are popular with families, weekend roadtrippers and people engagement.
Interior
The style is quite smooth and elegant interiors, providing a comfortable cabin with user-friendly many features. Interior materials, as usual, remains high quality.
The interior is big news, the third-row seat is standard, and, fortunately, the former chair was ruled out. Instead of a one-piece design, the new third-row seat splits 50/50, allowing four passengers in the vehicle when half the seats in the second and third folds to accommodate large items long. Access to the third row is easily done with walk-in shaft is placed in an accessible position below the second row passenger side seat.
Highlander Hybrid offers second-row bench 40/20/40-split beautiful. Lie, the slides forward and back and middle removed and the hide, leaving open the center aisle. This configuration results in a pair of second row captain chairs with folding armrests, located in many minivans.
In terms of cargo, this SUV offers 10.3 cubic feet of space on the third line is used, slightly more than 42 cubic feet of space behind the second row when third row is folded. With all seats stowed away, Highlander Hybrid allowing 94 cubic feet of storage space.
What are the driving directions experience a new hybrid? In one of the first test vehicle, Edmunds.com said, "using the same tires and suspension under the 2011 Highlander Hybrid units of about the same as before. Both are followed impeccably smooth and quiet, reasonable coordination and simpler than the previous limit. "
Highlander Hybrid is available in base and Limited. The base model comes equipped with seven-passenger seating, rear air conditioning with climate control, steering wheel tilt / telescoping seat eight-way power driver. System of a standard CD audio includes XM Radio, MP3/WMA capability iPod dock and Bluetooth wireless technology. There is also the center of the screen in the dashboard to display various pieces of information from the vehicle as well as to provide an image captured by the camera on the back of the car. A navigation system is optional for the first time the basic model.
Limited models add leather interior with power driver seat and four-way 10-way power front passenger seat is a good roof heating, energy and three-zone climate control. DVD entertainment and navigation system is optional.
There is a group of active safety electronics: electronic stability control, traction control, four-wheel antilock disc brakes with brake force distribution and brake assist. Passenger safety comes with seven airbags, including two front, side, front, side curtain, and one knee operation. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not tested 2011 Highlander.
Economy
With the fuel economy of 28 city/28 highway, Highlander Hybrid is a vehicle with seven seats in the most efficient manner. Despite all the other positive, the rating is 28 mpg city, without doubt, the success of the vehicle.
Highlander Hybrid has a base MSRP from $ 37,290 to $ 42,945 over $ 810 destination charge. That's about $ 3,000 to $ 7,700 more than conventional gasoline Highlander, based on pattern matching. However, for the cost of premiums, Highlander offers 10 more horsepower and 11 miles per gallon in the city and eight more on the way. In addition, cleaner exhaust emissions.
Compare Ford Escape Hybrid Highlander for popular, there are differences at the same price. Highlander is about $ 5,500 more expensive. The biggest difference in the way of pure power down and power between the two vehicles. Highlander Hybrid offers 280 horsepower and can tow up to £ 3500, while the Ford Escape Hybrid Prices 153 horsepower more or less useful, with a towing capacity of £ 1000. Escape Hybrid, however, on the edge of the Highlander in the fuel efficiency of about five to 10 percent, depending on model comparison. You need to decide if the extra MPGs and a premium of $ 5,500 to win on behalf of Toyota as a leader in hybrid technology.
Compared with corporate cousin, the Lexus RX 450h, Highlander comes to around $ 6,000 less. But that was expected, despite the fact that the two vehicles with the same hybrid system has almost the same features, same power and almost the same fuel consumption. In the end, the Lexus is a true symbol of status, and command higher prices. Greater accessibility of the Highlander also comes from allowing the buyer to cover the cost, opting for some services, such as chairs, sound system, and other amenities that come standard on the Lexus. Note that the Highlander has the advantage of being visible above the RX 450h is the availability of seats for seven passengers.
Highlander third row seat is usually a big advantage, but consumers will not have to sit seven, it may be better served to see the Ford Escape or Mercury Mariner hybrid, which offers superior fuel economy with a lower price, both have a 34/31 cost and cost about $ 5,000 less. However, eco-mind for consumers who seek a practical minivan, you can ask for anything more than a seven-passenger vehicle the most fuel efficient on the market? [Courtesy Of
Hybridcar]