2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid review

1. Power + fuel savings 

The 2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid gets a power boost while maintaining its fuel savings. The 306-hp hybrid powertrain utilizes a 3.5L V6 engine along with three electric motors to deliver an EPA-estimated combined mileage of 28 mpg for most trims to 29 mpg specifically for the LE Plus trim.

2. Standard driver-assist tech 

With a refresh for 2017, Toyota added a lot of standard driver-assistance tech to the Highlander Hybrid. Every model now gets a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure assist, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Available features to watch for on the 2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid include blind spot monitoring, front and rear park assist sensors, and a 360-camera view. 

3. Second-row creature comforts 

Need to seat eight passengers regularly? You're in luck, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid now offers an available bench seat in the second row, depending on trim. Other features the rear passengers will appreciate include separate climate controls, air vents in all rows, easy access to the third row, and a couple of USB ports in the second row. Available features to watch for include captain's chairs, second-row sun shades, and heated second-row seats. 

4. More trim choices 

Previously, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid only offered upper-trim models. Now, for 2017 you'll have more choices for features and options, starting with a more utilitarian LE trim with cloth seats. You still have more bougie Limited and Limited Platinum trims, but you no longer need to get luxury features if you don't want them. So, keep your eyes peeled for options and extras you may or may not want — there are a lot of them. 

5. Family-friendly versatility 

From eight-passenger seating to a max cargo capacity of 83.7 cu-ft behind first-row seats, the 2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is chockfull of flexibility. It also has a lot of small spaces to store things, including eight cupholders, four bottle holders, a sunglass holder, and a tray incorporated into the dash that can hold cell phones or a pack of tissues. Plus, the roll-top center console box not only opens without disrupting arm-rest duty but also is big enough to hold a large purse. If you want more family-friendly features, keep an eye out for the available Driver Easy Speak voice amplification system and rear-seat DVD player.