2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

A new flexible seating feature offers a choice of a three-across bench or, with a slim “Center Stow” seat removed, two captain's chairs and a walk-through passage between them. Access to that (slightly tight) third row has also been improved with an easy walk-in lever on the right (but not the left) second-row seat. The middle-row seatbacks recline and adjust 4.7 inches fore/aft, and rear air conditioning is available for second- and third-row passengers.


That removable center section stows under the front center console, and a second-row “Center Stow” console with cupholders can be fitted between the captain's chairs. Standard on the Limited and available on the base hybrid are a pair of one-touch levers in the cargo area that flip the middle-row seats forward to extend the flat load floor. With both second and third rows down, total cargo capacity is 94.1 cubic feet.

Improved Performance

The Highlander's Hybrid Synergy Drive system's 3.3-liter V6 and high-torque electric drive motor/generator are extensively refined and upgraded for both power and economy, with total net horsepower up to 270. An EV mode switch on the console enables low-speed electric-only operation for short distances, and an ECON switch next to it activates a program that smoothes throttle response to limit acceleration and enhance fuel economy.


A third, new fuel-saving feature is a Hybrid System Indicator meter. In its low-speed "normal” mode, keeping the needle within three white dashes helps maintain constant speed and acceleration to optimize fuel economy. When accelerating, it extends to five white dashes and encourages the driver to keep the needle within them for maximum efficiency.

Safety and Convenience

Highlander’s segment-leading seven airbags include advanced driver and front passenger bags, front seat-mounted side and roll-sensing side curtain bags and a driver's knee airbag. More important is the comprehensive suite of accident-avoidance technologies that Toyota calls its Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. These include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) and anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). A corner-braking feature integrates engine output, braking force and steering assist to help the driver in emergencies, and Hill-Start Assist Control helps prevent rolling backwards from a stop on a steep hill.