Reviewed by Susan Frissell, womenwithwheels.com

 

Impressions on our first ride in the all-new Toyota Highlander Hybrid are mostly favorable. But that braking….we couldn’t get used to the jerky braking, which hasn’t been our experience when driving other hybrid vehicles. While we are not a big fan of hybrid vehicles, we have to admit, the last two weeks in nothing but hybrid vehicles has been eye-opening. And while we may not quite be won over, thoughts are more positive than in years past.

2014 expansive sunroof

2014 Highlander Hybrid

Our dislikes, up front: The braking system; grabby and unpredictable, but we are confident if other drivers have this experience, Toyota will jump on it. We allow that braking in a hybrid is different, but the jerkiness of the Highlander’s braking was unsettling.

 Second: The controls for the audio and climate are in a bad position, but then this is the complaint of someone who isn’t comfortable using the steering wheel controls. In fact, most often we hate them because they are set into motion unintentionally. The heat/cooling controls on the all-new Highlander Hybrid aren’t in the best spot either, and easily set into motion when not needed.

The likes in the 2014 Highlander Hybrid include second row seating room, interior styling/material and quality, and phone and media storage. It is difficult to find fault with a Toyota/Lexus product and the new Highlander is no exception. It probably isn’t fair for a non-Hybrid fan to comment.

The road ahead!

The road ahead!

Although there isn’t anything to dislike really, about the new Highlander, we did manage to find a few minor annoyances. Better connectivity features are also an improvement in the new Highlander. Competition for the Toyota Highlander Hybrid includes the Ford Explorer, Honda CRV and Jeep Grand Cherokee. A whole different customer, wouldn’t you agree?

The Highlander’s bold new styling is a step forward for Toyota and a good one; with all the competition, it helps. Although, those into the Toyota brand and predictable dependability, would probably not choose anything but a Toyota vehicle.

Highlander's expansive sunroof

Highlander’s expansive sunroof

The new Highlander is a good size vehicle, large by any imagination. And it offers plenty of power. Space is ample so those wishing to haul any matter of gear will be pleased. Our Highlander Hybrid came equipped with plenty of goodies, including seating for seven, 8-way power memory driver seat w/lumbar, 4-way power passenger seat, 2nd row Captain’s row seating, 3rd row 60/40 split fold-flat seats, side-window sunshades, backup camera, rear package sonar.

Toyota’s Entune premium JBL 8-inch screen display, Entune JBL w/8-inch touchscreen, navigation, FM/AM/CD/MP3/USB/Aux/HD and XM radio/Bluetooth phone/music/App Suite/Homelink/4.2 color screen is top notch. Added to the interior is a woodgrain trim, leather steering wheel w/audio, phone , voice controls, roll-top console, and automatic A/C.

Options on our test Highlander Hybrid included First aid kit ($29), carpet floor mat and cargo mat ($225), cargo net ($49), body side molding ($209), running boards ($599).  

SPECS

MSRP: $47,790; total vehicle price $51,761, destination $860

Engine: Hybrid synergy drive system, 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine with VVT, ECO and EV Mode

Transmission: CVT

Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Tires: P245/55R19

Wheels: 19-inch chrometec alloys

Spare tire: 18-inch temporary spare

Wheelbase: 109.80 in.

Length: 191.10 in.

Height: 70.10 in.

Width: 75.80 in.

Warranty: 24 mths./25,000-miles Roadside Assistance; 60 mths./60,000-miles powertrain; 36 mths./36,000-miles basic; 24 mths./25,000-miles maintenance; 60-mths./unlimited miles corrosion perforation.