The drive of the Highlander Hybrid 4WD delivers a unique combination of fast and comfortable ride , Six-point-six-seconds-to-60-mph fast, a 2.5 seconds quicker than the 3.0-liter V-6 4WD example that we tested two years ago with an engine that expanded to a 3.3-liter, but you see the points. the hybrid is a bullet.
We see the rare-as-bird's-teeth phenomenon of trickle-down performance. For production efficiency, the Highlander's powertrain is now same to that developed for the Lexus RX 400h--, it is more performance-aware clientele who'll expect supreme acceleration for the hybrid's $4000-$5000 price premium. Yet, even in the high-voltage world of hybrids, underlined by the EPA mileage figures (tentatively 32 city/27 highway for the front-driver, 30/26 for the 4WD) which are quite impressive.
Technically, the Highlander Hybrid is a very solid demonstration of Toyota's deftness in teaching its innovative engine/motor pairing to move up with a beat. Using most of the Highlander's existing 3.3-liter V-6 architecture means its displacement is 2.2 times than the 1.5-liter in the Prius. The Highlander's primary under hood electric motor, now coupled with a planetary gear set to multiply torque, is now more powerful and also supplied by a higher-voltage battery pack nestled beneath the second-row passengers' rumps. As with the Prius, the water pump, air-conditioning compressor, and power steering all are driven electrically, making these available when the engine shuts down.
Unlike the Prius, the Highlander is available in all-wheel drive, which is delivered by an additional electric motor driving the rear axle. Interestingly, even Toyota admits that this is "not an off-road vehicle," but is a rather high-traction edition intended for slippery conditions.
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