2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid used to have the three-row hybrid segment all to itself, but an influx of new models in the USA will soon add some stiff competition. Traditionally, the Ford Explorer Hybrid is seen as its main competitor, but its focus on performance greatly impacts fuel economy. This has left the door wide open for the 243-horsepower Toyota and its 36 mpg combined fuel consumption claim. Toyota can't offer the same sort of fun as Ford does, but you have to ask yourself whether it matters in this niche segment. The first of many new rivals to head its way was the Kia Sorento Hybrid, which has a claimed combined mileage figure of 37 mpg; a plug-in derivative of that car has also joined the lineup. Toyota can always rely on brand loyalists, but devotion will only get you so far if another brand offers a superior product.

Whether the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a good SUV depends entirely on what your needs are. If you value performance, an engaging drive, and a dynamic exterior, the answer is no. Several SUVs for sale in the US cater to those specific needs. Oddly, there aren't many three-row SUVs with ultimate efficiency in mind. Ford's Explorer Hybrid uses its power plant for performance more than anything else, which means the Highlander has realistically competed in a segment of one until now. The arrival of the Kia Sorento Hybrid has mixed things up a bit, though. It's more affordable, and its advanced hybrid engine is even more efficient. Still, the Highlander has enough seating for eight people, while the Sorento can manage only six. Toyota's safety suite is impressive, too, but the all-new Sorento hits back with an equally impressive set of safety features from the base specification. Since this particular segment is about ultimate fuel efficiency, it remains an impressive SUV, but a review of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid shows that it is not as remarkable as it was last year when it had no competitors. Toyota is going to have to work harder to retain the top spot.

The price of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid starts at $38,855 for the base model in FWD configuration, while the FWD XLE costs $41,855. The new Bronze Edition trim costs $43,880. Upgrading to AWD on any of these three trims adds $1,600 to the total price. Limited trims start at $45,810, while the top-spec Platinum will cost $49,010 - to add AWD to either of the top-end models requires a further $1,950, which puts the AWD Platinum at nearly $51k without other options. These prices are MSRP and exclude Toyota's destination charge of $1,215.