For 2008, Toyota completely redesigned the Highlander Hybrid. It offers more refinement and a larger body, while still maintaining the same level of fuel economy as its predecessor. That’s an achievement because a change in size (an therefore, weight) usually has an immediate and noticeable effect on the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. Not so with the Highlander Hybrid. This versatile SUV grants more room and better packaging, while keeping its green stripes.
Power for the Highlander Hybrid comes from a 3.3-liter gasoline V6 engine, which is rated at 208 horsepower. In addition, two electric motors join this powertrain, one in the front and one in the rear, boosting the overall horsepower to a very respectable 270. There is a third electric motor that operates soley as an engine starter. The whole system mates to a continuously variable transmission, which is engineered to manage the various sources of power in a way that maximizes the Highlander Hybrid’s efficiency. In the way of performance, expect brisk acceleration and capable handling. You will have little to complain about in that department.
For even greater emphasis on efficiency, Toyota has outfitted the Highlander Hybrid with both "EV" and "Econ" driving modes. In EV, this hybrid functions solely on electric power, but only at low speeds and distances up to one mile. The more practical “Econ” mode works to limit throttle response in order to promote greater fuel economy. In other words, it restrains the engine’s ability to operate at its full potential. The ideal time to use this function is during stop-and-go traffic. The EPA rating for the Highlander Hybrid is 27 city/25 highway. Its city rating is actually better than its highway rating because the Highlander Hybrid makes more frequent use of its electric propulsion when traveling at lower speeds.
Power for the Highlander Hybrid comes from a 3.3-liter gasoline V6 engine, which is rated at 208 horsepower. In addition, two electric motors join this powertrain, one in the front and one in the rear, boosting the overall horsepower to a very respectable 270. There is a third electric motor that operates soley as an engine starter. The whole system mates to a continuously variable transmission, which is engineered to manage the various sources of power in a way that maximizes the Highlander Hybrid’s efficiency. In the way of performance, expect brisk acceleration and capable handling. You will have little to complain about in that department.
For even greater emphasis on efficiency, Toyota has outfitted the Highlander Hybrid with both "EV" and "Econ" driving modes. In EV, this hybrid functions solely on electric power, but only at low speeds and distances up to one mile. The more practical “Econ” mode works to limit throttle response in order to promote greater fuel economy. In other words, it restrains the engine’s ability to operate at its full potential. The ideal time to use this function is during stop-and-go traffic. The EPA rating for the Highlander Hybrid is 27 city/25 highway. Its city rating is actually better than its highway rating because the Highlander Hybrid makes more frequent use of its electric propulsion when traveling at lower speeds.
For 2008, Toyota completely redesigned the Highlander Hybrid. It offers more refinement and a larger body, while still maintaining the same level of fuel economy as its predecessor. That’s an achievement because a change in size (an therefore, weight) usually has an immediate and noticeable effect on the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. Not so with the Highlander Hybrid. This versatile SUV grants more room and better packaging, while keeping its green stripes.
Power for the Highlander Hybrid comes from a 3.3-liter gasoline V6 engine, which is rated at 208 horsepower. In addition, two electric motors join this powertrain, one in the front and one in the rear, boosting the overall horsepower to a very respectable 270. There is a third electric motor that operates soley as an engine starter. The whole system mates to a continuously variable transmission, which is engineered to manage the various sources of power in a way that maximizes the Highlander Hybrid’s efficiency. In the way of performance, expect brisk acceleration and capable handling. You will have little to complain about in that department.
For even greater emphasis on efficiency, Toyota has outfitted the Highlander Hybrid with both "EV" and "Econ" driving modes. In EV, this hybrid functions solely on electric power, but only at low speeds and distances up to one mile. The more practical “Econ” mode works to limit throttle response in order to promote greater fuel economy. In other words, it restrains the engine’s ability to operate at its full potential. The ideal time to use this function is during stop-and-go traffic. The EPA rating for the Highlander Hybrid is 27 city/25 highway. Its city rating is actually better than its highway rating because the Highlander Hybrid makes more frequent use of its electric propulsion when traveling at lower speeds.
Auxiliary transmission cooler
3,305 cc 3.3 liters V 6 front engine with 91.9 mm bore, 83.1 mm stroke, 10.8 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder 3MZ-FE Hybrid
Electric fuel with additional unleaded 87
Multi-point injection fuel system
17.2 gallon main unleaded fuel tank 14.3
Power: 201 kW , 270 HP SAE, 235, 175, 343 and 465
Secondary power: maximum power (kw): 156, maximum power (hp): 209, maximum torque (ft lb): 212 and maximum torque (nm): 287
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