2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review
2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review
Posted on February 24, 2014
A hybrid's appeal won't always stay new and shiny, which is why Toyota's redesigned the 2014 Highlander Hybrid to be more comfortable and drive better, offering four different options: LE, LE AWD, XLE AWD, and Limited AWD. The A-pillars have been repositioned to give the Highlander a more streamlined appearance, complementing the lower roofline and sculpted panels for a strong, athletic body. In terms of mechanical upgrades, the four-cylinder engine is gone, and in its place is a new transmission (six-speed automatic with sequential shift) and new all-wheel drive. The steering and suspension have also been tweaked to give the Highlander Hybrid the latest in driving ease and technology, which, when combined with the lower centre of gravity, makes this crossover more balanced, secure and steady than the previous models.
Taking a Look
The simplest way to describe the 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is sleek and dynamic. An aggressive appearance is achieved with a trapezoidal grille that's surrounded with wraparound headlights and chiselled fenders. But even with the smooth lines and bubbled headlights/taillights, the Highlander Hybrid still maintains a tough and rugged aesthetic.
More space is present inside, thanks to the Highlander Hybrid's increased length, which means comfier seating and more cargo space. Flat, plastic panels have been replaced with horizontal treatments accented with contrasting shades and surface finishes, while the high-tech information screens have grown in size to be more readable. The familiar three-row layout is still present, but there's the option of a second row bench seat so up to eight passengers can be accommodated. If drivers are worried about not being able to fit everything-and everyone-in, the rear glass opens for extra space, and the third-row seatbacks can be reclined.
Performance
| Model | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5L V6 6spd Automatic (Non-Hybrid) | 270 | 248 lb-ft |
| 3.5L V6 Atkinson-Cycle Continuously Variable Transmission with Electric Motor (Hybrid) |
280 | --- |
2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Fuel Economy
| Engine | City | Highway |
|---|---|---|
| FWD | 11.1 L/100 km (21 mpg) | 7.9 L/100 km (30 mpg) |
| AWD | 11.5 L/100 km (20 mpg) | 8.2 L/100 km (29 mpg) |
| Hybrid | 6.7 L/100 km (35 mpg) | 8.2 L/100 km (29 mpg) |
Highlander Hybrid Awards
- IntelliChoice 2013 Best Overall Value of the Year
- IntelliChoice 2013 Lowest Operating Costs
- IntelliChoice 2013 Lowest Fuel Costs
- IntelliChoice 2013 Lowest Ownership Costs
- IntelliChoice 2013 Highest Retained Value in Its Class
- Cars.com 2013 Best Midsize SUV/Crossover Hybrid
- Cars.com 2013 Best Bet
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 2012 Top Safety Pick
Safety Features
The package of safety features in Highlander models is pretty extensive, with the 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid loaded with eight airbags, traction and stability control, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Brake Assist, Hill-Start Assist Control, a backup camera, Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Smart Stop Technology. The six major components (VSC, TRAC, ABS, EBD, BA, SST) all comprise Toyota's signature Star Safety System.
Warranty
- Basic: 36 months/60,000 km
- Powertrain: 60 months/100,000 km
The Competition
Drivers, while liking the idea of a hybrid vehicle, don't always want a small car. The 2014 Highlander Hybrid competitors are the Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse, and Honda Pilot.
2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid for sale in Greater Vancouver, BC
The 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is sleek and dynamic. It also has plenty of great features, like Driver Easy Speak, a standard back-up camera, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. You can test drive the 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid today at West Coast Toyota.
West Coast Toyota sells and services the 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Your local Greater Vancouver Toyota dealer - West Coast Toyota wants to help you find the perfect Toyota model for your family!
Disclaimer: Pricing is subject to change without notice, actual price may vary; installed options may also vary by dealer. Price does not include applicable license fees, insurance, registration, tax, freight / delivery, PDI or administration fees. Warranty may subject to change without notice, actual warranty may vary. Specification may change without notice. See dealership for final pricing, warranty, and availability.
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