Toyota updated its Highlander model for 2008, including the Highlander Hybrid, making it bigger. Although it gained weight, its mileage stays the same as the the previous model.
Where the previous Highlander had a more carlike character, Toyota gives the new model some truck cues, such as the big, three-tiered cascading grille.
The power train in the the 2008 model is basically the same as in previous years, and is comprised of a 3.3-liter V-6 and three electric motors. The new Highlander Hybrid only comes in an all-wheel-drive configuration.
The big, rectangular wheel arches continue the truck styling on the new Highlander. We don't think the extension of the arches into the doors is a very successful design element.
Toyota sells this car as a base model, or with one of two expensive option packages that include things such as the 19-inch wheels and the spoiler lip over the rear hatch.
The new design does make the interior very roomy, with big, comfortable seats. The rear hatch is also powered and can be closed by touching a button on its lower edge.
We found the interior materials a little cheap. The plastic over the dashboard is hard, and the fake wood veneer is thin. The Highlander seems to take cues from American cars of the last decade.
The shifter works a continuously variable transmission, which doesn't convert the electric motors huge torque into exciting acceleration. Notice the EV mode button down and to the left.
