Great review - I bought the 2020 Highlander Hybrid AWD XLE and have been getting over 40 mpg around town on secondary roads. Don't know why Toyota wouldn't give you specs on the electric motors - it's listed in the owner's manual. The front electric motor for the 2020 has more HP than the 2019 - 180 HP vs 165 HP but the 2020 has less torque than the 2019 - 199 ft/lb vs 247. The 2020 Highlander has a bigger front motor than the RAV4 - 180 HP/199 ft/lb vs 118 HP/149 ft/lb. While the 2020 Highlander can send more torque to the rear wheels - part of the new e-four system programming - the motor is actually smaller than the 2019 - 53.6 HP/89 ft/lb for 2020 vs 67 HP/103 ft/lb for 2019. Same rear motor used in the RAV4 as the 2020 Highlander. Hybrid Battery in both the 2019 and 2020 Highlanders are 6.5 Ah and 288 V, The 2019 is made up of 30 9.6V modules and the 2020 is made up of 40 7.2 V modules. The 2019 has a 8yr/100,000 mile warranty and the 2020 has a 10yr/150,000 mile warranty. Don't know if the modules have anything to do with that.
Alex your reviews are the best. period. no where can i find out exactly about the second row recline, the dimension graph size, grading on noise and ride, this is basically review perfection. Never change, never stop. subscribe and watch forever.
Just got the 2021 Model. LOVE it. I have Alex to thank for the excellent car reviewing in my search for a new vehicle!! This is the video that convinced me to take the plunge. Can confirm what Bruno said in comments there is an option to slide the seat forward with a car seat in place. (At least in my 2021 XLE) I have the 8 seater without the captain's chairs. If you test drove the previous generation of the HH and found it lacking (in drive, cabin comfort and noise), as I did, check out this new generation. It is a game changer. Thanks again Alex!
i guess im asking the wrong place but does anyone know a trick to get back into an instagram account?? I was stupid lost my password. I would appreciate any tips you can give me!
Thank you for a good review and commentary. I do appreciate your ending comparing different vehicles, wisdom and such. On this particular vehicle, I really like the 1,500 watt inverter. Its one of those things that will make a difference to me. 400 watts is ok, but 1,500 watts is something very useful. You put your heart into these reviews and it really shows. Thanks again!
We have much in common my friend! Just traded in the wife's 2013 HH Limited awd with 150k miles on for a 2021 HH Platinum awd and still got $11k for the 2013. Love my Seikos, Grand Seikos, and Lexus' too
Alex, While adding an AMAZING 30% increase in fuel efficiency and retaining the 3,500 lbs tow rating is impressive, I am nonetheless concerned the switch to a 4 cylinder engine will negatively impact the #Nurburgring lap times the Highlander Hybrid can achieve. Is the outstanding and unequaled fuel efficiency really worth the track day trade off?🤔
I am looking forward to a highlander prime. I'll be satisfy if it can go 50 miles of electric driving. The hybrid is more than just fuel saving. I find it very useful anytime I have to wait in the car, I can use the AC or heater without having to let the engine running, especially when waiting daily to pick up my kids.
toyota's new hybrid system for the rav and HH are torque vectoring too, no? I thought they added the ability for that rear electric motor to send power side to side?
Alex, I think you can definitely compare the highlander hybrid to Acura MDX hybrid. Platinum price will be almost the same as base MDX hybrid. In addition, since the highlander shrunk a bit in interior leg room 109, compared to MDX's 108, they are now more closer in size than previously.
@@toyorobo Yup! I really enjoy it because they both talk about building their house in the woods and doing other cool stuff like raising chickens and planting a garden. Are you getting this Highlander by the way?
@@Nightbird. I wish! I just got a new Camry but looking forward to getting a Highlander when they are about 3 years old. That seems to be the sweet spot. Whats the name of that channel?
@@toyorobo Congrats on your Camry! That was my first choice..but my local dealer said the color and engine combo I wanted would be a special order of about 8 months..so now I'm looking at this Highlander..although it's way more money than I wanted to spend..lol. Here is Alex's other channel with his husband: ua-cam.com/users/themountaingarden
Hey Alex, I love your videos, they're so thorough and informative. I was wondering, for your in-depth reviews, could you incorporate a brief segment to show just how adjustable and comfortable the front passenger seat is?
The elbow problem with the centre armrest has actually become a dealbreaker for me. It was even worse when I sat in a cold one in -10C here in Canada. Beyond the sharp plastic ridge, the armrest was as hard as a rock in the cold. Big fail. Want the mileage, waiting for the Sienna announcement on Monday.
I follow Alex a long time ago. His videos are full content and that's a good thing. But the most important thing for me is to observe from the first second his incredible package. Sorry; but I needed to say it.
Thorough review as always. Honestly, if it was about the power and space the Telluride and Palisade win hands down. However, if you just need a 3rd row occasionally and care about gas mileage, the Highlander Hybrid is the obvious choice. Personally, I no longer feel "the need for speed" and would opt for fuel economy as an empty-nester.
@Der Schwindel Not true for the 2021 Sorento in the US, either. Currently, the Sorento comes only with a third row of seats. The two row version in the US was dropped in 2018, the same year that the Hyundai Santa Fe lineup was scrambled and the Santa Fe became available only as a two row SUV. It appears (from multiple sources) that the Sorento will retain the third row in 2021 though a two row version may be offered, as well.
This Highlander Hybrid is really great! But it'll have some competition soon from the Sorento Hybrid. The Kia has 240hp, 35mpg and a mechanical awd system and no CVT! Not to mention, it'll be at least 8K cheaper. Already on sale in Korea. It's very nice.
Yes but have you driven a Kia? I test drove one after I left Toyota dealership, and went to back to Toyota and bought the RAV4. The Kia just drives so horribly. Its rough and everything inside feels so cheap.
New vehicle prices are simply out of control. I recall newspaper ads for new Ford Ranger pickups for $7500 which seemed like a lot of money but reachable without too much effort. No way I'd ever pay this much for a vehicle which sits idle 23 hours a day while draining my account.
I test drove both the V6 and the hybrid. The hybrid is much better on gas, but for me the V6 felt SOOO much better to drive. Partly it’s because the hybrid is so weak. While it has a respectable 243 hp, its torque felt weak, though it’s very difficult to find official torque numbers for some reason. Also, the 8-speed transmission that comes with the V6 is SOOO much better feeling than the hybrid’s CVT. I drove the hybrid first and it was really “meh”. It didn’t feel responsive at all. I then drove the V6 and it was immediately clear that I greatly preferred it. I felt so much more in control while driving the V6. Which is too bad because I really like the mpg on the hybrid and gas is f’ing expensive!
Damm homie I really wanted to get the hybrid cause of better gas mileage but it has a 4 cylinder engine and is also underpowered and the E AWD isn't as capable as the mechanic all wheel drive is so if your gonna go on hybrid you may get better gas mileage bur Preformance and the handling of the All wheel drive will be sacrifice for a mere fuel economy.
I hope to see a Prime version of this car. Kind like the RAV with at least 30m all-electric, A winner for sure. That said the current price structure makes me ditch it and go Tesla Model Y.
Alex, According to your own numbers, you get better highway mpg driving the Highlander Hybrid than your crew get driving the RAV4 Hybrid. Time for a staff meeting.
I shopped for Pacifica, but could find one decided on highlander Hybrid Platinum. I have always driven MiniVans, Grand Caravans and Montana’s when Pontiac was still around.
XLE AWD with nav is the best bang for your buck... no need limited or platinum trim. Use the extra money just extend the maintenance or warranty if you don’t mind paying extra
Having a systems function pinned to the huge 12.3” display makes sense to me. It reduce an additional step to exit CarPlay to access the system functions.
We actually went with the 2020 Subaru Touring... Wish this was available to test drive, though when we were car shopping. Definitely better driving dynamics than the 2019.
For those whose highest priority in a mainstream midsize SUV is fuel efficiency the Highlander hybrid is almost certainly the best choice. To some extent that's because there is only one other option, the Ford Explorer hybrid that's far less fuel efficient than the Highlander. (The options may improve if KIA introduces a hybrid Sorento later this year.) But if "family hauling" is included in the category of "efficiency," the Highlander is hardly ideal and the deficiency between the Highlander and other choices is greater, I think, than Alex implies. Toyota claims that the Highlander seats "up to eight" passengers. The top trim Highlander Alex reviews has second row captain chairs so presumably the capacity is seven passengers. Realistic compared to other 3 row SUV's? Nope. Not at all. The inadequacy is most obvious in terms of third row legroom, a figure Toyota puts at 27.7". That's less than the back seat of a Mustang (30").Two inches less than Toyota's own "86" sports car (29.7"). Among midsize SUV's it's less than a Mazda CX-9 (29.7"). Even a smidgen less than a VW Tiguan with its optional 3rd row (27.9") a vehicle that's closer in overall size to a compact SUV than an average midsize. The Highlander offers full 4" less than a KIA Sorento (31.7") a 3 row SUV with an overall length about half a foot less than the Highlander. Finally, to add insult to injury Toyota claims room for 7 or 8 passengers only because the Highlander has three seat belts in the 3rd row. Unless one plans to transport Munchkins from the cast of the Wizard of Oz there is no way to put in the back seat of the Highlander. Nor for that matter if it likely to be adequate for kids who have an annoying tendency of getting larger over time. An 8 year old might fit when the Highlander is purchased but could not be crammed in the rear seat three or four years later. The bottom line is that the third row of the Highlander is "+2" size, much like the back seat of sports cars like a Jaguar E Type or a Mazda RX7. That makes the Highlander Alex is reviewing a 4+2 SUV, not a 7 passenger vehicle. Considering the MSRP well over $50,000 that's a lot of lettuce to drop on an SUV that's effectively limited to four human beings and two Munchkins for more than a few miles. The Highlander hybrid is undeniably fuel "efficient." It's just not "human" efficient as a three row crossover.
You fail to take into account how much the second row seats can be slid forward. They can slide forward over 7" which can provide the third row occupant 34" of leg room, while still leaving 34" for the second row passenger. Thus there is way more room in the Highlander than a Mustang, CX9, or Tiguan. The key is that in these other SUV's the default 2nd row has about 35" of legroom, while the Toyota starts with 42". The problem with the Toyota's third row is really not the legroom. It is that the cushion is situated very close to the floor so there is almost no thigh support. I would agree with you that fitting 3 across is unlike the the 3 occupants are very skinny people. By the way, I am 5'9" and can fit comfortably in both the 2nd and 3rd rows when the 2nd row is set for my size. However, the 2nd row is much more comfortable because it has much better thigh support.
Bahaha you went on and on about the leg room on the 3rd row and yet you have no idea. Don't trust so called experts online kids! They think they're smart but really they're very dumb and that's dangerous.
@@tw88888888 The total legroom in all three rows of the Highlander is less than a KIA Sorento, a vehicle that's half a foot shorter overall than the Highlander. And like most 3 row SUVs the KIA's first and second rows slide fore and aft. Those are facts, not opinions.
I hate that too about the Platinum. But I really want the heads up display so I have to get the Platinum for it even though I HATE the 2nd row captains chairs.
Just bought an AWD XLE for less than I could find a base model telluride due to Kia dealers marking them up 5-10k over MSRP. I think I got the better vehicle for the price and a known commodity in higher mileage.
This and the RX were at the top of my list. But my hair brushes against the roof in the Toyota and Lexus but not in competitors. So I moved on. (I'm 6'4")
I'm nervous about the reliability/cost of the battery and CVT over the long term. I keep my Toyotas for 200,000 miles. Wondering how the battery replacement costs and unknown CVT reliability compares to a standard gas engine with automatic transmission. Anyone have any insights?
My Toyota built car is 15 years old with exactly the reliability that was promised. If I was shopping today for a CUV I would only buy a Toyota Hybrid. To be more specific, I would want the RAV4 or Highlander Hybrid with the proven Nickel Hydride batteries. By any objective measure, Toyota's Hybrids are even more reliable than their non-Hybrids and will save the owner a fortune in gasoline costs while offering reduced maintenance costs for brakes etc. Toyota has extremely long warranty coverage on Hybrid components and the track record shows their traditional Hybrids going well beyond 200,000 miles without major issue. Lithium ion batteries have not been around as long and may or may not prove to be just as reliable. Is that helpful?
@@rightlanehog3151 Yes. Can you tell me how long a hybrid battery is meant to last? Do they need to be replaced based on time or mileage? If I need to replace one every 5 years, wouldn't that negate any fuel savings?
@@fr8doggr551 I researched this..and the first thing I found out is that there are plenty of hybrid Toyota Prius' with over 200k & 300k miles on them with the original battery packs and they are still going strong. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years or 150,000 miles and they cost about $4500 to replace..less if you buy a used one. So overall the hybrid is a great deal I think.
We just looked at them. My wife and agreed, wait for the Plug In. Interior felt Busy. Rear window suffered usual poor vision. Not sure we ready to sell the 6 year old Forester for it.
naveenthemachine the mdx os obviously better in every aspect except the hybrid toyota is better cause theyre been havinhg hybrid for 15 years, ive seen prius and rav4 hydrid over 400k miles.
Fisher Le not necessarily, the mdx will be a better driving car but this highlander has a WAY better infotainment, a more spacious cabin, and better mpg
I honestly can't understand why people who aren't explicitly and specifically interested in performance don't buy hybrid versions of cars whenever they're available. The number of people driving around in non-hybrid RAV4s, Accord, Camrys, Corollas, Civics (Insight), Elantras (Ioniqs), etc., drives me bonkers.
Own a 2020 XLE AWD HHY. Now have 4500 miles. I traded in our 2019 RAV4 Hybrid Limited for more space.... I really like this vehicle compared to RAV4. Its smooth, solid, much more comfortable ( seats) than RAV4 but slightly disappointed in mileage. How are you getting upper 30’s Alex ? I drive Eco with mixed driving but mostly city and get 33-34 ( at best). I’ll get 35 mpg on flat highway driving going 70 mph. I know, complaining on still getting almost mid 30’s for what it’s rated. Do miss 40mpg from RAV4. I hope Toyota makes a plug in Highlander . That would be great or all EV SUV. Cmon Toyota. And yes it does look like a Subaru!
I would love a Highlander plug in like the RAV4 Prime. But can't wait that long so I'll be getting a Platinum AWD Hybrid like you. Thanks for confirming the high MPG on the highway!
10:00 - regarding comfort, the bench seat is OK for the two outside passengers, but for some reason the middle seating position is as hard as a brick! I don’t know whether that’s to encourage us to get captains chairs or what, but it was very uncomfortable, basically ruling out the Highlander as a five passenger in two rows vehicle.
I would love Toyota or Honda to imitate Pacifica's looks and offer something smaller but similar in Japan. It is one of the best lookin mini-vans out there.
Curious about the comparison between the Highlander Platinum hybrid and the Volvo XC60 T8. I realize the Volvo is a phev, but wondering about overall driveability and operating costs. MSRP would be similar for a Momentum trim XC60.
Which new SUV's still have the rear opening glass in the hatch? That is a feature I use often on my 2008 Highlander Hybrid Limited, whether it's accessing small items or if I'm hauling long 2x4's from HomeDepot. Important feature for me.
Depending on how much city driving will be done, the 21 mpg gas model versus the 36 mpg hybrid, the $3,700 increase in price could be made up with enough miles. Replacing the battery after 8 (?) years apparently only costs about $250, so the decision of gas-versus-hybrid boils down to how many miles the vehicle will be driven.
Toyota build quality and resale value is tops of ANY automaker. That alone should make you choose the Highlander. Chrysler is known for horrible build quality and reliability. And both the KIA & Hyundai SUV's have a lot of complaints against them in terms of build quality. I'm going with Toyota because I plan on keeping it for at least 15yrs. 🙂
In regards to the tilt and slide seats to included a child seat: The VW has many issues with the mechanisms that allow that movement. I would imagine Toyota has shied away from it to reduce the incidents of issues.
Anybody mention Alex that you can’t utilize the five thousand pound hitch or any trailer hitch on the platinum and limited versions of the highlander? You only can put a trailer hitch on the lower trims from Toyota because of the kick to open hatch! Maybe you can hear from watchers that have learned this the hard way after springing in my case almost ready to pop 52000 bucks for my dream vehicle
Even with the pandemic, the absolute wrong year to release a redesigned vehicle, the Highlander should have no problem being Class president in sales once again. Sold almost 250k units last year Comparing this to a Rav4 is odd, since they should target two different demographics and the cars are very different in size. The Rav4 is a better buy, if you are never going to use the 3rd row, but you should know that
Great review Alex. I had been looking forward to it. For me it is between a new optioned highlander and a lightly used xc90 t8. The xc90 has more space, is more effecient in sub 100 mile trips, has 400 hp, probably more capable awd. However the lack of buttons in the xc90 would drive me nuts and then the elephant in the room is reliability. Certainly the highlander hybrid is probably going to be one of the longest lasting vehicles you can buy today where as the xc 90 is turbo and super charged is european AND owned by a Chinese company. It makes me a bit nervous when you are sinking 50k+ into a SUV.
Nothing wrong with owned by a Chinese company. XC90 T8 owner here with 30K miles. No mechanical issues but some little electrical warnings. One was a recall, and the other one is dealership didn't install a pipe properly after a scheduled maintenance. If you are somehow looking for that 400hp, definitely pick the T8.
@@Cyua_ thanks for the info. Nothing against a Chinese company other than we don't have the track record to draw conclusions about reliability here in the us. Two electrical issues at 30k and a dealer who makes mistakes is disturbing on a $70k+ suv. What kind of pipe has to be uninstalled and reinstalled
Eric Brady that pipe was something to do with a thermometer, which is the recall I had. But at the time, it wasn’t a recall yet. The dealer wasn’t familiar with that issue too.
Eric Brady I don’t expect the reliability on this car to be any close to a highlander. The thing is, no other 400hp suv is as dependable as a highlander on the market right now......
Front facial looks a lot like Subaru. No wonder they are the same company now. It's not too fair to compare the central control unit to the Koreans for they are the leader in that field now.
Don't u guys in the us get the rav4 phev like we in europe do? Then we can talk good mpg.. 70mpg easy. Highlander 38 mpg is a joke after europe standards. Funny to see what us thinks are impressive mpg numbers on a car. A Highlander phev would be the perfect car. Great and informative review. The best one yet on Higlander. Explorer 3.0 phev is now on sale in europe and i think that is the one to get.
Great review - I bought the 2020 Highlander Hybrid AWD XLE and have been getting over 40 mpg around town on secondary roads. Don't know why Toyota wouldn't give you specs on the electric motors - it's listed in the owner's manual. The front electric motor for the 2020 has more HP than the 2019 - 180 HP vs 165 HP but the 2020 has less torque than the 2019 - 199 ft/lb vs 247. The 2020 Highlander has a bigger front motor than the RAV4 - 180 HP/199 ft/lb vs 118 HP/149 ft/lb.
While the 2020 Highlander can send more torque to the rear wheels - part of the new e-four system programming - the motor is actually smaller than the 2019 - 53.6 HP/89 ft/lb for 2020 vs 67 HP/103 ft/lb for 2019. Same rear motor used in the RAV4 as the 2020 Highlander. Hybrid Battery in both the 2019 and 2020 Highlanders are 6.5 Ah and 288 V, The 2019 is made up of 30 9.6V modules and the 2020 is made up of 40 7.2 V modules. The 2019 has a 8yr/100,000 mile warranty and the 2020 has a 10yr/150,000 mile warranty. Don't know if the modules have anything to do with that.
I want to ask.
Does the highlander hybrid have problems with the gas tank filling up or is it fixed?
Best comment ever. Thanks for all the specs
Alex your reviews are the best. period. no where can i find out exactly about the second row recline, the dimension graph size, grading on noise and ride, this is basically review perfection. Never change, never stop. subscribe and watch forever.
Just got the 2021 Model. LOVE it. I have Alex to thank for the excellent car reviewing in my search for a new vehicle!! This is the video that convinced me to take the plunge. Can confirm what Bruno said in comments there is an option to slide the seat forward with a car seat in place. (At least in my 2021 XLE) I have the 8 seater without the captain's chairs. If you test drove the previous generation of the HH and found it lacking (in drive, cabin comfort and noise), as I did, check out this new generation. It is a game changer. Thanks again Alex!
Excellent!
Dina well I just got the same as the one is showing in this video, so far yes I must admit it. I’m in love☺️
Extremely impressed that Alex’s outfit perfectly matched the Highlander’s interior! ❤️
i guess im asking the wrong place but does anyone know a trick to get back into an instagram account??
I was stupid lost my password. I would appreciate any tips you can give me!
@Rohan Samuel Instablaster :)
I love the look of this car especially interior
Thank you for a good review and commentary. I do appreciate your ending comparing different vehicles, wisdom and such. On this particular vehicle, I really like the 1,500 watt inverter. Its one of those things that will make a difference to me. 400 watts is ok, but 1,500 watts is something very useful. You put your heart into these reviews and it really shows. Thanks again!
I like that 1500 watt inverter...I do wonder if the fuse is diy (do it yourself) and easy to replace without going to dealer???
Both Alex and his husband really care about the reviews and it shows!
@@stevethevlogger on a modern vehicle? Never lol
Highlander is the best as owner of two Highlanders since 2000.
We have much in common my friend! Just traded in the wife's 2013 HH Limited awd with 150k miles on for a 2021 HH Platinum awd and still got $11k for the 2013. Love my Seikos, Grand Seikos, and Lexus' too
Another great video Alex! Love the new highlander. Can’t wait for the next gen Kia Sorento Hybrid to be released for your review to compare the two!
Purchased a 23 platinum 4 cyl Turbo.. very fast LOVE IT !!!! Toyota Reliability Highly Recommended!!!
No Mother-in-Law was harmed in the making of this video.
Alex, While adding an AMAZING 30% increase in fuel efficiency and retaining the 3,500 lbs tow rating is impressive, I am nonetheless concerned the switch to a 4 cylinder engine will negatively impact the #Nurburgring lap times the Highlander Hybrid can achieve. Is the outstanding and unequaled fuel efficiency really worth the track day trade off?🤔
I don't think Nurburgring lap times is going to be an issue
This one just does the Nordstrom-ring.
Nurburgring lap time? In a highlander? Save your money
Sarcasm people... sarcasm
@@hockey1freak Irony.
The newer gen Toyota actually look really good
@@fcex558 what about the Camry? I own the XSE trim and I love mine
I am looking forward to a highlander prime. I'll be satisfy if it can go 50 miles of electric driving. The hybrid is more than just fuel saving. I find it very useful anytime I have to wait in the car, I can use the AC or heater without having to let the engine running, especially when waiting daily to pick up my kids.
I got this as a rental last week from Toyota service. had 32 miles on the odometer.. think I was the first to drive it.. AND.. OH MY was it FAST!!!
I'll never unsee the "robot claw" that you point out at 16:05
I don’t mind the robot claw look as long as it’s done well and it doesn’t affect functionality
I agree, the V6 has the torque vectoring AWD, but this AWD felt really good!! and the MPG #ohmylanta
toyota's new hybrid system for the rav and HH are torque vectoring too, no? I thought they added the ability for that rear electric motor to send power side to side?
@@BrendanPJames Nope.
This hybrid is nice to drive! Great job Alex.
Another hit on Toyota's lineup ✔ however I'll wait a few years to pick up a used one. My 2016 RX hybrid is running like new averaging 29 mpg.
Fair point.
Alex, I think you can definitely compare the highlander hybrid to Acura MDX hybrid. Platinum price will be almost the same as base MDX hybrid. In addition, since the highlander shrunk a bit in interior leg room 109, compared to MDX's 108, they are now more closer in size than previously.
Get the Highlander. More tech better value
I love it. I want it. I must have it. Wife say no. I will not get it.
Leo.....Wimp !!!
Haha very smart!
Wait for Highlander Prime
Sadly the wife is always right...
@@aliendroneservices6621 i am thinking the exact same thing. I will def get a hylander primer....but i cant see where they will stick the battery.
Literally cannot get enough of Alex's reviews.
Check out his other channel where he and his husband talk about other subjects as well!
@@Nightbird. Really? I didn't even know he had another channel! Jeez, where have I been.
@@toyorobo Yup! I really enjoy it because they both talk about building their house in the woods and doing other cool stuff like raising chickens and planting a garden. Are you getting this Highlander by the way?
@@Nightbird. I wish! I just got a new Camry but looking forward to getting a Highlander when they are about 3 years old. That seems to be the sweet spot. Whats the name of that channel?
@@toyorobo Congrats on your Camry! That was my first choice..but my local dealer said the color and engine combo I wanted would be a special order of about 8 months..so now I'm looking at this Highlander..although it's way more money than I wanted to spend..lol. Here is Alex's other channel with his husband: ua-cam.com/users/themountaingarden
Hey Alex, I love your videos, they're so thorough and informative. I was wondering, for your in-depth reviews, could you incorporate a brief segment to show just how adjustable and comfortable the front passenger seat is?
The elbow problem with the centre armrest has actually become a dealbreaker for me. It was even worse when I sat in a cold one in -10C here in Canada. Beyond the sharp plastic ridge, the armrest was as hard as a rock in the cold. Big fail. Want the mileage, waiting for the Sienna announcement on Monday.
I'm also waiting to see whether the other hybrid will be a U.S. variant of new Harrier. That car look so good.
I follow Alex a long time ago. His videos are full content and that's a good thing. But the most important thing for me is to observe from the first second his incredible package. Sorry; but I needed to say it.
I’m glad I jumped off the suv trend and got the 2020 Camry se hybrid!
2029?! That's 9 years from now
Dang. Is your other car a delorean?
Jay Parker no I mean 2029... i came back just for this car
Jay Parker fixed it
Thorough review as always. Honestly, if it was about the power and space the Telluride and Palisade win hands down. However, if you just need a 3rd row occasionally and care about gas mileage, the Highlander Hybrid is the obvious choice. Personally, I no longer feel "the need for speed" and would opt for fuel economy as an empty-nester.
@@fcex558 Agreed, their horsepower is just higher.
My GF just bought the platinum hybrid. It’s really nice 👍
What is the average MPG?
Definitely looks like a Subaru!
An Outback had a baby with a RAV4!
Since Subaru and Toyota have already partnered on the 86, wouldn’t be surprised one bit
That's not a compliment. Subaru rivals Nissan on frumpy styling.
Treads the Subaru Ascent shares the same body just a different grille
The back looks more like an Outback than the front. Wow. I guess it does make sense though considering Toyota has a minority stake in Subaru.
This guy is the best car reviewer I've seen. Subscribe!
Future tip: Don't wear pants with the same color as the leather in a small 3 row cuv. You just blend in
it will look like you aren't wearing anything below your waist
The Kia Sedona Hybrid and Sienna Hybrid are also going to join the hybrid class this year.
Add the new Kia Sorento hybrid if it comes with a 3rd row .
@Der Schwindel No, it comes in 5, 6 and 7 passenger configurations. ( In Korea)
@Der Schwindel Not true for the 2021 Sorento in the US, either. Currently, the Sorento comes only with a third row of seats. The two row version in the US was dropped in 2018, the same year that the Hyundai Santa Fe lineup was scrambled and the Santa Fe became available only as a two row SUV. It appears (from multiple sources) that the Sorento will retain the third row in 2021 though a two row version may be offered, as well.
Great review Alex. Enjoyed this
I just love this car and for the fact it's hybrid. Wow!
This Highlander Hybrid is really great! But it'll have some competition soon from the Sorento Hybrid. The Kia has 240hp, 35mpg and a mechanical awd system and no CVT! Not to mention, it'll be at least 8K cheaper. Already on sale in Korea. It's very nice.
Really good to know. I wonder what the tow spec is
@@BLR1GBattlemaster I honestly don't know. They don't list that on their Korean site.
Yes but have you driven a Kia? I test drove one after I left Toyota dealership, and went to back to Toyota and bought the RAV4. The Kia just drives so horribly. Its rough and everything inside feels so cheap.
@@meowk5812 Maybe you should try a Kia from THIS century? You'll find things have changed a lot.
@@johnholst yes I test drove the 2020 lol. I bought my RAV4 back in June.
I just bought a new Subaru Crosstreck and IMO Alex is right. This new Hylander looks more like a Subaru than my new Subaru.
I liked how the Highlander was back in the day when it was smaller
I have the first gen HighHy. it's the size of a 2020 rav4 for but with a V6 and electric motors that make close to 300hp. a great car
Alex,
Those Sketchers you're wearing in this video... So comfortable am I right? Just noticed that. Keep up the good work!
Skechers are amazing shoes! But I'm pretty sure Alex's husband picked those out for him. 😁
New vehicle prices are simply out of control. I recall newspaper ads for new Ford Ranger pickups for $7500 which seemed like a lot of money but reachable without too much effort. No way I'd ever pay this much for a vehicle which sits idle 23 hours a day while draining my account.
Everything has gone up in price..while American's salaries are stagnant. Welcome to America.
I test drove both the V6 and the hybrid. The hybrid is much better on gas, but for me the V6 felt SOOO much better to drive. Partly it’s because the hybrid is so weak. While it has a respectable 243 hp, its torque felt weak, though it’s very difficult to find official torque numbers for some reason.
Also, the 8-speed transmission that comes with the V6 is SOOO much better feeling than the hybrid’s CVT.
I drove the hybrid first and it was really “meh”. It didn’t feel responsive at all. I then drove the V6 and it was immediately clear that I greatly preferred it. I felt so much more in control while driving the V6.
Which is too bad because I really like the mpg on the hybrid and gas is f’ing expensive!
Damm homie I really wanted to get the hybrid cause of better gas mileage but it has a 4 cylinder engine and is also underpowered and the E AWD isn't as capable as the mechanic all wheel drive is so if your gonna go on hybrid you may get better gas mileage bur Preformance and the handling of the All wheel drive will be sacrifice for a mere fuel economy.
I hope to see a Prime version of this car. Kind like the RAV with at least 30m all-electric, A winner for sure. That said the current price structure makes me ditch it and go Tesla Model Y.
Alex, According to your own numbers, you get better highway mpg driving the Highlander Hybrid than your crew get driving the RAV4 Hybrid. Time for a staff meeting.
No more drag racing in the RAV? Aww
I was just waiting for that moment that you fold down all the rear seats to see how it looks like but you didn't!
I shopped for Pacifica, but could find one decided on highlander Hybrid Platinum. I have always driven MiniVans, Grand Caravans and Montana’s when Pontiac was still around.
XLE AWD with nav is the best bang for your buck... no need limited or platinum trim. Use the extra money just extend the maintenance or warranty if you don’t mind paying extra
Not for me. I really want that Heads Up Display and bigger infotainment screen!
Having a systems function pinned to the huge 12.3” display makes sense to me. It reduce an additional step to exit CarPlay to access the system functions.
We actually went with the 2020 Subaru Touring... Wish this was available to test drive, though when we were car shopping. Definitely better driving dynamics than the 2019.
Alex please do a towing review of highlander hybrid same as you did for rav4 hybrid
For those whose highest priority in a mainstream midsize SUV is fuel efficiency the Highlander hybrid is almost certainly the best choice. To some extent that's because there is only one other option, the Ford Explorer hybrid that's far less fuel efficient than the Highlander. (The options may improve if KIA introduces a hybrid Sorento later this year.) But if "family hauling" is included in the category of "efficiency," the Highlander is hardly ideal and the deficiency between the Highlander and other choices is greater, I think, than Alex implies.
Toyota claims that the Highlander seats "up to eight" passengers. The top trim Highlander Alex reviews has second row captain chairs so presumably the capacity is seven passengers. Realistic compared to other 3 row SUV's? Nope. Not at all. The inadequacy is most obvious in terms of third row legroom, a figure Toyota puts at 27.7". That's less than the back seat of a Mustang (30").Two inches less than Toyota's own "86" sports car (29.7"). Among midsize SUV's it's less than a Mazda CX-9 (29.7"). Even a smidgen less than a VW Tiguan with its optional 3rd row (27.9") a vehicle that's closer in overall size to a compact SUV than an average midsize. The Highlander offers full 4" less than a KIA Sorento (31.7") a 3 row SUV with an overall length about half a foot less than the Highlander. Finally, to add insult to injury Toyota claims room for 7 or 8 passengers only because the Highlander has three seat belts in the 3rd row. Unless one plans to transport Munchkins from the cast of the Wizard of Oz there is no way to put in the back seat of the Highlander. Nor for that matter if it likely to be adequate for kids who have an annoying tendency of getting larger over time. An 8 year old might fit when the Highlander is purchased but could not be crammed in the rear seat three or four years later.
The bottom line is that the third row of the Highlander is "+2" size, much like the back seat of sports cars like a Jaguar E Type or a Mazda RX7. That makes the Highlander Alex is reviewing a 4+2 SUV, not a 7 passenger vehicle. Considering the MSRP well over $50,000 that's a lot of lettuce to drop on an SUV that's effectively limited to four human beings and two Munchkins for more than a few miles. The Highlander hybrid is undeniably fuel "efficient." It's just not "human" efficient as a three row crossover.
You fail to take into account how much the second row seats can be slid forward. They can slide forward over 7" which can provide the third row occupant 34" of leg room, while still leaving 34" for the second row passenger. Thus there is way more room in the Highlander than a Mustang, CX9, or Tiguan. The key is that in these other SUV's the default 2nd row has about 35" of legroom, while the Toyota starts with 42". The problem with the Toyota's third row is really not the legroom. It is that the cushion is situated very close to the floor so there is almost no thigh support. I would agree with you that fitting 3 across is unlike the the 3 occupants are very skinny people.
By the way, I am 5'9" and can fit comfortably in both the 2nd and 3rd rows when the 2nd row is set for my size. However, the 2nd row is much more comfortable because it has much better thigh support.
Bahaha you went on and on about the leg room on the 3rd row and yet you have no idea. Don't trust so called experts online kids! They think they're smart but really they're very dumb and that's dangerous.
@@tw88888888 The total legroom in all three rows of the Highlander is less than a KIA Sorento, a vehicle that's half a foot shorter overall than the Highlander. And like most 3 row SUVs the KIA's first and second rows slide fore and aft. Those are facts, not opinions.
But this thing will go for years... a Pacifica, I doubt it.
Pacifica has been rating quite reliable if I recall
Great video. It's hard to find a 2nd row bench seat option in the Limited. The Platinum doesn't offer it, which is a shame.
I hate that too about the Platinum. But I really want the heads up display so I have to get the Platinum for it even though I HATE the 2nd row captains chairs.
I’d definitely agree with his comment about the front. It is kind of giving me Subaru a little bit.
Pls do a video once the new Sienna Hybrid comes out. I am guessing they are going to use the same hybrid engine
Just bought an AWD XLE for less than I could find a base model telluride due to Kia dealers marking them up 5-10k over MSRP. I think I got the better vehicle for the price and a known commodity in higher mileage.
This and the RX were at the top of my list. But my hair brushes against the roof in the Toyota and Lexus but not in competitors. So I moved on. (I'm 6'4")
I'm nervous about the reliability/cost of the battery and CVT over the long term. I keep my Toyotas for 200,000 miles. Wondering how the battery replacement costs and unknown CVT reliability compares to a standard gas engine with automatic transmission. Anyone have any insights?
My Toyota built car is 15 years old with exactly the reliability that was promised. If I was shopping today for a CUV I would only buy a Toyota Hybrid. To be more specific, I would want the RAV4 or Highlander Hybrid with the proven Nickel Hydride batteries. By any objective measure, Toyota's Hybrids are even more reliable than their non-Hybrids and will save the owner a fortune in gasoline costs while offering reduced maintenance costs for brakes etc. Toyota has extremely long warranty coverage on Hybrid components and the track record shows their traditional Hybrids going well beyond 200,000 miles without major issue. Lithium ion batteries have not been around as long and may or may not prove to be just as reliable. Is that helpful?
@@rightlanehog3151 Yes. Can you tell me how long a hybrid battery is meant to last? Do they need to be replaced based on time or mileage? If I need to replace one every 5 years, wouldn't that negate any fuel savings?
@@fr8doggr551 I researched this..and the first thing I found out is that there are plenty of hybrid Toyota Prius' with over 200k & 300k miles on them with the original battery packs and they are still going strong. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years or 150,000 miles and they cost about $4500 to replace..less if you buy a used one. So overall the hybrid is a great deal I think.
We just looked at them. My wife and agreed, wait for the Plug In. Interior felt Busy. Rear window suffered usual poor vision. Not sure we ready to sell the 6 year old Forester for it.
When was the last year of the 6 cylinder 306 HP engine?
I really like the new Highlander platinum. Their HUD is one of the best that’s out there
How’s this compare to the MDX hybrid?
Does Acura do hybrid ? Except for the NSX
Thivakar saravanamuthu they have the MDX hybrid and RLX hybrid
naveenthemachine the mdx os obviously better in every aspect except the hybrid toyota is better cause theyre been havinhg hybrid for 15 years, ive seen prius and rav4 hydrid over 400k miles.
Fisher Le not necessarily, the mdx will be a better driving car but this highlander has a WAY better infotainment, a more spacious cabin, and better mpg
John Frantz also more modern and more efficient. And the MDX has that ZF 9 speed which has a lot of complaints
I honestly can't understand why people who aren't explicitly and specifically interested in performance don't buy hybrid versions of cars whenever they're available. The number of people driving around in non-hybrid RAV4s, Accord, Camrys, Corollas, Civics (Insight), Elantras (Ioniqs), etc., drives me bonkers.
Exactly. If you can't be bothered to shift your own gears, Hybrid is definitely the way to go.
This car is beauty.
Own a 2020 XLE AWD HHY. Now have 4500 miles. I traded in our 2019 RAV4 Hybrid Limited for more space....
I really like this vehicle compared to RAV4. Its smooth, solid, much more comfortable ( seats) than RAV4 but slightly disappointed in mileage. How are you getting upper 30’s Alex ? I drive Eco with mixed driving but mostly city and get 33-34 ( at best). I’ll get 35 mpg on flat highway driving going 70 mph. I know, complaining on still getting almost mid 30’s for what it’s rated. Do miss 40mpg from RAV4. I hope Toyota makes a plug in Highlander . That would be great or all EV SUV. Cmon Toyota. And yes it does look like a Subaru!
I would love a Highlander plug in like the RAV4 Prime. But can't wait that long so I'll be getting a Platinum AWD Hybrid like you. Thanks for confirming the high MPG on the highway!
10:00 - regarding comfort, the bench seat is OK for the two outside passengers, but for some reason the middle seating position is as hard as a brick! I don’t know whether that’s to encourage us to get captains chairs or what, but it was very uncomfortable, basically ruling out the Highlander as a five passenger in two rows vehicle.
I would love Toyota or Honda to imitate Pacifica's looks and offer something smaller but similar in Japan. It is one of the best lookin mini-vans out there.
My 2016 Camry hybrid gets 36mpg, real world. I wish Toyota bring back the 3.5L hybrid highlander
I'm not at all surprised about the tow hitch. I bet about 9 people towed with their Highlander Hybrids last year.
My 2021 platinum highlander 38MPG
The owner's manual online says 134 kw (179 hp) & 199 ft-lb for the front motor and rear is 40 kw (53.6 hp) and 89 ft-lb
The placement of the "Hybrid" and "AWD" on the front doors looks way out of place.
Curious about the comparison between the Highlander Platinum hybrid and the Volvo XC60 T8. I realize the Volvo is a phev, but wondering about overall driveability and operating costs. MSRP would be similar for a Momentum trim XC60.
Very very helpful! Thank you!
It seems like a wash between the Highlander and the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (but +1 points for plug in).
I reflexively clicked on the picture thinking this was going to be a review of the Subaru Ascent.
Toyota: *whoops*
How useful is the bird eye view monitor in a vehicle like this? It’s not an option on the XLE.
I’m just glad it got rid of that massive grill!
YES that was some kind of UGLY!!!
Which new SUV's still have the rear opening glass in the hatch? That is a feature I use often on my 2008 Highlander Hybrid Limited, whether it's accessing small items or if I'm hauling long 2x4's from HomeDepot. Important feature for me.
4Runner and Sequoia.
dang thats some solid fuel savings com'on Honda get your act together either fix the twin hybrid system or go the traditional route
I would like to see more reviews of entry level cars
I agree but the automakers generally insist on sending fully loaded models for review.
Depending on how much city driving will be done, the 21 mpg gas model versus the 36 mpg hybrid, the $3,700 increase in price could be made up with enough miles. Replacing the battery after 8 (?) years apparently only costs about $250, so the decision of gas-versus-hybrid boils down to how many miles the vehicle will be driven.
Certain angles makes it look like an Infiniti as well. It's the shape of the grill at an angled view
Alex, is 40mpg on the highway possible in the upcoming all new 2021 Sienna Hybrid with this powertrain due to better aerodynamics?
Toyota build quality and resale value is tops of ANY automaker. That alone should make you choose the Highlander. Chrysler is known for horrible build quality and reliability. And both the KIA & Hyundai SUV's have a lot of complaints against them in terms of build quality. I'm going with Toyota because I plan on keeping it for at least 15yrs. 🙂
In regards to the tilt and slide seats to included a child seat: The VW has many issues with the mechanisms that allow that movement. I would imagine Toyota has shied away from it to reduce the incidents of issues.
How deadly are the EMFs? Did they shield 🛡 us from the poisonous frequencies nicely?
You prefer Rav or Highlander hybrid Alex?
How are they compensate for the long up hill climb where the battery is drained? That I4 won't pull car with 6 people with luggage at hwy speed.
Please bring back the carbo comparison chart as you have for legroom, thank you!
Alex, when will you review the Model Y please?
Seats Eight. Less Filling.
Anybody mention Alex that you can’t utilize the five thousand pound hitch or any trailer hitch on the platinum and limited versions of the highlander? You only can put a trailer hitch on the lower trims from Toyota because of the kick to open hatch! Maybe you can hear from watchers that have learned this the hard way after springing in my case almost ready to pop 52000 bucks for my dream vehicle
He discusses that specific problem in the Highlander V6 video of June 30.
I'll be honest, thought it was a hybrid ascent until I read the title fully
Even with the pandemic, the absolute wrong year to release a redesigned vehicle, the Highlander should have no problem being Class president in sales once again. Sold almost 250k units last year
Comparing this to a Rav4 is odd, since they should target two different demographics and the cars are very different in size. The Rav4 is a better buy, if you are never going to use the 3rd row, but you should know that
Great review Alex. I had been looking forward to it. For me it is between a new optioned highlander and a lightly used xc90 t8. The xc90 has more space, is more effecient in sub 100 mile trips, has 400 hp, probably more capable awd. However the lack of buttons in the xc90 would drive me nuts and then the elephant in the room is reliability. Certainly the highlander hybrid is probably going to be one of the longest lasting vehicles you can buy today where as the xc 90 is turbo and super charged is european AND owned by a Chinese company. It makes me a bit nervous when you are sinking 50k+ into a SUV.
Nothing wrong with owned by a Chinese company. XC90 T8 owner here with 30K miles. No mechanical issues but some little electrical warnings. One was a recall, and the other one is dealership didn't install a pipe properly after a scheduled maintenance. If you are somehow looking for that 400hp, definitely pick the T8.
@@Cyua_ thanks for the info. Nothing against a Chinese company other than we don't have the track record to draw conclusions about reliability here in the us. Two electrical issues at 30k and a dealer who makes mistakes is disturbing on a $70k+ suv. What kind of pipe has to be uninstalled and reinstalled
Eric Brady that pipe was something to do with a thermometer, which is the recall I had. But at the time, it wasn’t a recall yet. The dealer wasn’t familiar with that issue too.
Eric Brady I don’t expect the reliability on this car to be any close to a highlander. The thing is, no other 400hp suv is as dependable as a highlander on the market right now......
@@Cyua_ True. Very little, period. Agreed.
You can get an after hitch set up for a lot less
Edmund's and fuelly dot com are only just over 31 mpg with Highlander and bigger Sienna Hybrid...better off with +80 mpge on Pacifica Hybrid.
Front facial looks a lot like Subaru. No wonder they are the same company now. It's not too fair to compare the central control unit to the Koreans for they are the leader in that field now.
many people ask me if the highlander does anything exactly like the rav 4.....and the answer is *no*
Thank you Alex for using the under sold Mazda CX-9 which is the best in this class. Too bad nobody knows it.
They have the RAV4 Prime, so why not a Highlander Prime?
Don't u guys in the us get the rav4 phev like we in europe do? Then we can talk good mpg.. 70mpg easy. Highlander 38 mpg is a joke after europe standards. Funny to see what us thinks are impressive mpg numbers on a car. A Highlander phev would be the perfect car.
Great and informative review. The best one yet on Higlander. Explorer 3.0 phev is now on sale in europe and i think that is the one to get.
Direct Copy of Subaru Ascent. Somehow not compared here but working AWESOME for me 👌