LE 4dr Front-Wheel Drive
2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

With its smaller-than-average size, the V6-powered 2022 Toyota Highlander is a bit of niche choice among three-row SUVs. Although its limited third-row and cargo dimensions have been perfectly agreeable for Highlander buyers for multiple vehicle generations, the fact remains that the same amount of money can buy an SUV with an appreciably more spacious interior. Why wouldn't you get one those? The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a totally different story, however, for one extremely good reason: it gets 35 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. That's an enormous advantage over a segment, including the V6-powered Highlander, with a fuel economy range of 21-23 mpg combined. You could easily save at least $500 every year and dump less CO2 into the atmosphere while you're at it. When you consider that the only other hybrid three-row SUV is the even-smaller Kia Sorento, the Highlander's size deficiency all of a sudden is less of an issue. It's a trade-off versus a straight-up con. It also makes the Highlander Hybrid one of our top-recommended three-row SUVs. Interior & Technology | Passenger & Cargo Space | Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive | Pricing & Features | Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2022? The Highlander Hybrid gains a new Bronze Edition, pictured below, which adds bronze-colored wheels, sill plates, seat trim, floor mats and badging. It is equipped comparably to an XLE, a trim that gains height/tilt adjustment to its previous six-way-only power passenger seat. What are the Highlander interior and in-car technology like? Admittedly, the picture above is indicative of the higher XLE, Limited and Platinum trims – the lower L and LE are rather dour and monochromatic affairs. Yet, even those have above-average interior quality, and since those pricey trims tend to be popular, it's worth extolling their virtues a bit. The earthy two-tone color schemes are distinctive, warm and generally inviting. The silver trim that wraps around the control binnacle like a fork is textured to make it look richer and more like actual metal. The wood trim on the dash and center console, be it real or not, is subtle and tasteful. The padded SofTex vinyl that covers much of the dash, doors and center console is pleasant to touch, while the real leather on the seats is buttery soft. All the switchgear is pleasant to touch and operate. Standard on most trim levels is an 8-inch touchscreen interface, which is mounted high within easy reach and sight. We like that it's one of the easier systems to use, especially its audio controls, but those seeking a quicker, more modern interface will find one in basically anything not named Honda. The available 10.25-inch unit is largely similar in terms of its basic and operation, but gains functionality by adopting a widescreen orientation. How big is the Highlander? The Highlander is smaller than most of its competitors on the outside, which makes it slightly more manageable to maneuver and park. Perhaps there's a greater chance of it fitting …
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