U.S. News Rating: 8.7/10
Third-Row Legroom: 33.5 inches
36 mpg combined
The Grand Highlander Hybrid, now in its third year, steals some of the thunder from the long-running Highlander midsize SUV. The two Toyotas have similar base prices, though the Grand Highlander Hybrid is bigger and more comfortable than its smaller sibling. It has three generous rows of seating, with the first two offering enough space for adults to get comfortable. The third row has 33.5 inches of legroom, which is about typical for the class.
The Grand Highlander Hybrid also offers a choice of powertrains, which is a little unusual in this segment. It comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, two electric motors and a 1.3-kWh battery. It’s also available with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, two electric motors and a 1.4-kWh battery.
Our reviewer, Bengt Halvorson, says the electric motor blends seamlessly with the gasoline engine and “best matches the family mission of the Grand Highlander – strong but easy to drive smoothly and keeping engine noise well in the background for all but strong acceleration.”
