2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review
The all-new 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid features a 3.5 L V-6 gasoline engine that combines with regenerative braking and electric motors to provide excellent fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving. Such hybrids usually post the biggest gains in stop-and-go driving around town, as the use of the brakes actually recharges the system. The big boost in fuel economy in city driving can offer substantial savings over the life of the vehicle. Both city and highway ratings are 28 mpg. Power available to the Highlander Hybrid is still significant, with 280 hybrid system net horsepower.
This large crossover SUV offers seven passenger seating. Even third row seating is ample. The 2013 Highlander Hybrid is part of the third generation of Highlanders. The second generation had a good run from 2008-2012.
Toyota uses a CVT, or continuously variable transmission, in the Highlander Hybrid. Low friction CVTs further enhance fuel economy while offering smooth performance, something especially useful in larger vehicles like the Highlander.
The Hybrid version of the Highlander is available in both Base and Limited editions. All Highlanders include both stability control, traction control, and electronic on-demand 4-wheel drive for exceptional drivability, even in adverse conditions. The Limited edition includes flash memory-based navigation with voice recognition, premium leather, and a rear-view camera.
2013 Hybrid Highlanders now include Toyota's Entune Internet streaming technology that offers an advanced interface for iPod, smartphone, and blackberry devices.
Exterior Features:
*Daytime Running Lights (DRL) with on/off feature *Color-keyed power, heated outside mirrors w/folding feature *17-in. 7-spoke alloy wheels with P245/65R17 105S tires *Washer-linked variable intermittent windshield wipers*Intermittent rear wiper *Windshield wiper de-icer *Windshield with UV reduction glass*Privacy glass on rear side, quarter and liftgate windows *LED center high-mount stop light on color-keyed rear spoiler
Interior Features:
*Front and rear air conditioning with air filter*Remote keyless entry system with remote illuminated entry *Power windows with driver-side auto up & down w/jam protection *Rear lift gate window defogger *Power door locks with shift-linked automatic lock/unlock feature *Day/night rearview mirror *Overhead console with maplights and conversation mirror *Center console with covered storage compartment, six cup holders, and two 12V auxiliary power outlets *USB port with iPod® connectivity and control, hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth® *3.5-in. TFT Multi-Information Display with customizable settings, outside temperature, clock, climate control settings (Hybrid Limited), fuel efficiency history, distance to empty, TPMS, Hybrid system information, warning messages*8-way adjustable driver seat and 4-way adjustable front passenger seat*Sliding and reclining fold-flat second-row seats with Center Stow™ seat and Center Stow™ console *50/50 split fold-flat third-row seat w/folding headrests *Cruise control *Tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio, information display, and Bluetooth® hands-free phone controls *Opitron instrumentation w/red-illuminated speedometer & tachometer; LCD display with odometer and tripmeters*Cargo area 12V auxiliary power outlet