Toyota Highlander hybrid is a the green variant of a mid-sized family SUV,

with seven seats and lots of additional functions added to its predecessor model. The improved model aims at getting the attention of a wider range of consumers that have shown interest in eco-cars. The wheelbase of Toyota Highlander hybrid is developed from the Camry chassis with the mention that the new model is a few inches longer and wider. The size or weight of the eco-variety of Toyota Highlander hybrid is around 260 pounds larger than the initial model.

Toyota Highlander hybrid has a 3.3-liter, and a V6 engine with an electric drive motor that makes this car race with a sum of 270 horsepower. The electronic steering mechanism makes parking in crowded parking lots possible and not at all cumbersome. A difference between Toyota Highlander hybrid and the gas-powered model is present in the design of the suspension system.

The gas version which is considered the more traditional has sport suspensions whereas the eco version complies with the comfort need in the presence of the softer suspensions. Every vehicle offers three ways of maximizing fuel economy and they are comprehensively presented in the owner's manual.

Toyota Highlander hybrid users should carefully read how to interpret and use the specifications on the hybrid system indicator depending on the “normal” or “acceleration” modes. No technical knowledge is necessary to interpret the fuel consume according to the driving mode: the increase will thus occur when you accelerate. However, even for superior speed levels there is an advantageous instant consume that you can exploit accordingly. When at low speeds, Toyota Highlander hybrid allows you to operate only on the electric mode but on limited distances only.

Last but not least, Toyota Highlander hybrid has another control availability known as the Econ drive mode that works to prevent excessive acceleration and too high fuel consume. The Econ mode is known to work great when you drive in city areas with the stop-and-go traffic, then the fuel economy increase will be significant under the circumstances.

As for riding out of the city, the Econ mode of Toyota Highlander hybrid is not that rewarding as you will feel incredibly slowed down. In a nutshell, you need to adjust the functions of this great car to the necessities of the moment in order to be efficient and ecological at the same time.