As it approaches the end of its third incarnation, the 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid remains one of the few ways to propel eight people using hybrid power. Quietness and refinement are still hallmarks, though some technology features are noticeably absent.
A replacement model is due in 2020, so the Highlander Hybrid returns unchanged from last year.
The Highlander is a big and heavy vehicle, but its 3.5-liter V6 engine and accompanying electric motor generates 306 net horsepower. Electric motors at the front and rear axles provide additional pulling power at lower speeds, through a electronically controlled continuously variable transmission with sequential shift mode. The Highlander Hybrid, which utilizes an all-wheel-drive system, achieves an EPA-estimated 29 miles per gallon city, 27 mpg highway, and 28 combined.
SUV buyers tend to prioritize safety, and the Highlander Hybrid has a wealth of standard safety features. Smart stop technology cuts engine power to improve braking performance, while every model offers a forward collision warning system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assistance, and adaptive cruise control. There are side, knee, seat-cushion, and curtain airbags, while an integrated backup camera is also standard.
There are four trims available:
Priced at $38,015 (all prices include the $1,045 destination charge), LE models feature 18-inch split alloy wheels, privacy glass, and LED taillights. Air conditioning extends to all three rows of seats, with a recline function for the 60/40-split rear bench. There’s a smart key system for the front doors and remote keyless entry with push button start. Five USB ports should provide sufficient charging for everyone’s devices, while the 6.1-inch touchscreen powers a six-speaker audio system with voice recognition and Siri Eyes Free. There are no packages available on LE models.
There’s a substantial price jump to $43,075 for the Highlander Hybrid XLE. It gains safety features that include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The touchscreen system expands to eight inches, with integrated navigation and Toyota’s Entune app suite, while a 4.2-inch driver information display joins the meter cluster. Other creature comforts include retractable sunshades, a HomeLink transceiver, a power liftgate, and a power moonroof. Leather appears everywhere from the steering wheel to the front- and second-row seats, with the former heated and power adjustable. Again, there are no options available on this model.
The Limited is priced at $46,555. External improvements over XLE trim include puddle lights in the heated folding outside mirrors, LED daytime running lights, LED fog lights, 19-inch alloy wheels, and chrome detailing. The front seats are perforated and ventilated, while wood-grain accents, blue LED ambient lighting, rear park assist sonar, and a 12-speaker audio system improve the cabin. There are still no packages available.
The Highlander Hybrid Limited Platinum sits at the top of the lineup for a starting price of $49,675. This model gains unique 19-inch wheels, front parking assist sonar, a surround-view camera system, a leather-trimmed and heated steering wheel, a panoramic moonroof, and heated second-row captain's chairs.
The price differential between LE and XLE models makes the latter hard to justify, despite a number of welcome comfort and safety upgrades. The 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid makes the most sense in its most affordable guise.
