Talks About Cars

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) USA finally launches the hybrid electric version of its 2008 Highlander mid size crossover SUV. The 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid will be available in Base and Limited models, and will roll out in dealer showrooms all over the U.S. starting this coming October.

The vehicle features a 3.3-liter V6 engine under its hood, powering the four-wheel drive with intelligence (4WD-i) drive train configuration. Like all Toyota hybrid models, the 2008 Highlander Hybrid also features the company’s patented Hybrid Synergy Drive(TM) system, along with 3 innovative powertrain technologies. It includes:

EV Mode - enables the driver to use only electric power within a limited distance and at low speeds.
ECON Mode - allows the driver to have a smooth throttle response to limit excessive acceleration by activating a throttle-control program.
Hybrid System Indicator - allows the driver to have a visual guide on car's fuel consumption and offers guides to maximize the car's fuel economy.

Other key highlights of the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid include:

- A/FM/CD with six speakers
- Leather trimmed tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio controls
- Two rows of fabric-trimmed seats
- Flexible second-row seating features captain's chairs with armrests
- "Center Stow(TM)" seat
- Driver's knee airbag and roll-sensing side curtain airbags
- Active headrests for the driver and front passenger
- Direct Tire Pressure Monitor System
- Toyota's STAR(TM) Safety system with Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management
- Vehicle Stability Control
- Traction control
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist (BA).
- Stand-alone backup camera with a 3.5-inch LCD screen
- Smart Key System with Push Button Start

The 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited model adds three rows of leather-trimmed seats, rear glass hatch, power rear door, multi-stage heated front seats, AM/FM/six-disc in-dash CD changer, puddle lamps on outside mirrors, fog lamps and a third-row bench seat with foldable headrests, and 19-inch alloy wheels.

The manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid base model is $33,700, and $39,950 for the 2008 Highlander Hybrid Limited.