
2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited-L4 AWD
Vehicle Type: SUV/Minivan Hybrid
73
overall score
Category Ranking: 17
Vehicle Price
Base Price:
$47,115
Price as Tested:
$50,088
Fuel Information
Fuel Type: Regular
Fuel Capacity (gal): 17.1
EPA City mpg: 35
EPA Highway mpg: 34
EPA Combined mpg: 35

Advanced Safety Features
- Adaptive Cruise Control [S]
- Advanced Headlights [S]
- Automatic Emergency Braking [S]
- Blind-Spot Warning [S]
- Forward-Collision Warning [S]
- Lane-Departure Warning [S]
- Lane-Keeping Assistance [S]
- Rear Cross-Traffic Warning [S]
- Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking [O]
- [S] Standard, [O] Optional
NHTSA Rating:
Overall Observations
Introduced in 2006, Toyota’s iconic Highlander Hybrid was the first
midsize 3-row hybrid SUV. It was redesigned for 2020 and is now in its
fourth generation. The Highlander Hybrid’s drivetrain delivers 243 hp
total and, even better, gets 35 mpg in combined city/highway driving.
Apart from its powertrain, the Highlander Hybrid has the same
commendable qualities as its gas-powered sibling: a smooth, relaxing
ride; attractive styling inside and out; and a spacious interior with lots
of cargo space and storage cubbies. Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ suite
of advanced driver-assistance features and excellent LED headlights
come standard.
But, like any vehicle, the Highlander Hybrid isn’t perfect. The
2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine feels underpowered and suffers
from excess noise and vibration, some interior materials feel cheap,
rear visibility is restricted by a small back window and rear-seat
headrests, and the third-row seating is cramped and unsuitable for
adults.
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Strengths and Weaknesses
Strong Points
- Plenty of room forpassengers in the first2 rows
- Smooth, comfortable ridequality
- Excellent fuel economyratings and range
Weak Points
- Lots of noise andvibration duringgas-engine operation
- Underpowered
- Tight third-row seating
- Inconsistent interiorfit and finish
Vehicle Specifications
Model year tested: 2021
Number of passengers (F/R): 2/6
Curb weight (lbs): 4600.0
Exterior L / W / H (in): 194.9 / 76.0 / 68.1
Wheelbase (in): 112.2
Number of air bags: 10
Warranty (months/miles): 36/36,000
Tire manufacturer and model: Goodyear Eagle Touring
Front and rear tire size: 235/55 R20
Max towing capacity (lbs): 3500
Headlight type: LED
Transmission type: Hybrid drive
Drivetrain type: All wheel
Engine/motor: 2.5L 4-Cyl. 16-valve DOHC
Engine horsepower @ RPM: 186 @ 6000
Combined system horsepower: 243
Test Data
Test Vehicle Scores
Advanced Safety Features:
8.70Fuel Efficiency:
6.26EPA Emissions Score:
7.00Acceleration:
3.75Braking:
3.87Handling:
7.43Ride Quality:
7.61Interior Size:
3.99Easy of Entry and Exit:
7.19Visibility:
8.00Interior Noise:
5.08Cargo Capacity:
4.81
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Car Guide Categories:
- SUV/Minivan |
- Large |
- Midsize |
- Small |
- Pickup |
All Makes:
IIHS Top Safety Pick Vehicles: