Does the Highlander Hybrid really get 35 MPG?

The Highlander Hybrid is generally rated around 35 miles per gallon combined on EPA tests for common configurations, but real-world results vary widely depending on drivetrain, year, tires, cargo, and driving style. In optimal highway conditions you can approach that figure, while city driving and heavier loads typically yield lower mileage.

What the official ratings say

EPA fuel economy figures are measured under standardized tests and can differ by drivetrain, year, and wheel/tire setup. For recent Highlander Hybrid models, Toyota and the EPA have historically placed the blended efficiency in the mid-30s, with front-wheel drive (FWD) versions typically at or near 35 mpg combined and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions slightly lower due to the added drivetrain weight. Exact numbers can vary year-to-year and by trim, so always check the window sticker for the precise figure on a given model.

• Front-wheel-drive (FWD): about 35 mpg combined on the EPA test cycle.


• All-wheel-drive (AWD): about 34 mpg combined on the EPA test cycle.

These figures reflect the 2.5-liter inline-four hybrid system paired with electric motors and a continuously variable transmission, and they assume standard tires and typical driving conditions. Real-world mileage can differ based on several factors.

How the Highlander Hybrid performs in real-world driving

Journalists and owners report a range of results, with many variables at play beyond the label. City driving tends to yield lower numbers than highway cruising, and payload, climate, and tire choices can all shift outcomes. In everyday mixed driving, readers and reviewers commonly see mileage in the upper 20s to mid-30s mpg, with highway trips at steady speeds often reaching into the upper 30s, depending on conditions.

• Urban and stop-and-go driving: typically in the low-to-mid 20s mpg, sometimes higher with very light loads and favorable conditions.


• Highway and steady-speed cruising: often in the mid-to-upper 30s mpg, particularly with calm speeds and efficient tires.

In practice, expecting mid-30s mpg on longer highway trips while accepting lower figures in dense city traffic is a reasonable rule of thumb. Real-world results will vary by year, trim, and how the vehicle is equipped and driven.

Tips to maximize mpg

Improving efficiency on a Highlander Hybrid involves a mix of driving habits and maintenance. The following strategies can help you get closer to the EPA numbers.

• Maintain proper tire pressure and use tires with low rolling resistance when possible.


• Drive smoothly: gradual acceleration, gentle braking, and steady speeds; use cruise control on highways when appropriate.


• Limit heavy loads and roof racks when not in use to reduce drag and weight.


• Use eco or hybrid modes to emphasize fuel-saving behavior, and precondition the cabin before driving when the engine is cold.


• Keep up with maintenance: clean air filters, proper oil changes, and periodic tire rotations can help efficiency.

Following these practices can help you approach the EPA-estimated efficiency in everyday use.

Bottom line

The Highlander Hybrid is designed to meet the roughly 35 mpg combined target on the EPA cycle, especially in favorable highway conditions and with lighter loads. Real-world mileage varies—city driving, heavier payloads, and colder weather typically lower mpg into the upper 20s or lower 30s. For the exact figure on your model year and configuration, consult the window sticker or the official Toyota specifications, and consider independent test results for real-world expectations.

Summary

In short, the Highlander Hybrid can approach 35 mpg combined on EPA tests, but actual mileage depends on drivetrain (FWD vs AWD), year, tires, load, climate, and driving style. If you're shopping, review the specific model year’s EPA ratings and read recent independent reviews to gauge how closely real-world results match the numbers you see on the sticker. With mindful driving and proper maintenance, you can get strong fuel efficiency from this hybrid SUV.

What are the disadvantages of a Toyota Highlander Hybrid?

The main disadvantages of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid include a cramped and small third-row seat, limited cargo space, and a noisy engine under hard acceleration. Other drawbacks include potentially underpowered acceleration on the Grand Highlander hybrid, and some in-car electronics and infotainment system issues reported by owners. 
Interior and space

• Tight third-row and cargo: The third-row seat is small, best suited for children, and there is not much cargo space behind it. 
• Limited EV mode: The vehicle has limited capability to run on electric power alone. 
• Basic interior quality: Some reviews note that certain trims may have noticeable hard plastics in the cabin compared to competitors. 

Performance and driving

• Underpowered engine: The base hybrid powertrain can feel underpowered and struggle with acceleration, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers or cargo, particularly in the Grand Highlander model. 
• Noisy engine: The engine can be noisy and sound strained during hard acceleration, such as when merging onto a highway or climbing a hill. 
• Limited towing capacity: The hybrid model has a lower towing capacity compared to the non-hybrid gas models. 
• Limited off-road capability: The Highlander Hybrid is designed for on-road use and is not suitable for challenging off-road conditions. 

Technology and features

• Infotainment system issues: Some owners have reported that the infotainment system can be quirky, with the large touch screen sometimes being difficult to use, freezing up, or having issues with phone pairing. 
• In-car electronics problems: Some models have experienced issues with the in-car electronics, including Apple CarPlay complications and the display screen freezing. 
• Reliability concerns: Some specific issues have been reported, such as problems with the fuel gauge/sender and sensors, though these vary by model year. 

What is the lawsuit against the Toyota Highlander?

Recent and ongoing lawsuits involving the Toyota Highlander address issues such as faulty door lock actuators, a potential transmission defect in certain models, and a claim that 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids have fuel tanks that do not fill completely. Other recent lawsuits include an investigation into defective power liftgates and a separate class action settlement for a Bluetooth echo defect that affected some Highlanders. 
Current and recent lawsuits

• Door Lock Actuators: A class action lawsuit was filed because many Toyota models, including the Highlander, reportedly have defective door lock actuators that may fail to engage properly. The lawsuit claims owners have been charged for repeated replacements, which Toyota allegedly considered "wear and tear" items. 
• Transmission Defect: Lawsuits allege that certain Highlander models (2017-2022) equipped with the UA80 automatic transmission have a defect that can cause whining, erratic shifting, and premature failure. A Customer Support Program (CSP ZJC) was created but only covers a limited number of vehicles, according to Change.org. 
• Fuel Tank Defect: A class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids, claiming a defective fuel tank vent causes it to not fill to its capacity. 
• Power Liftgate Defect: Some Highlander models (XU20, XU40, XU50, and Highlander Hybrid MHU28) are reportedly affected by a power liftgate defect that can lead to costly repairs, with the lawsuit alleging Toyota knew about the issue but did not issue a recall or warning. 
• Bluetooth Echo Defect: A class action lawsuit over a Bluetooth defect that caused an echo on calls in certain Toyota models, including the Highlander, resulted in a settlement, notes this article from Unión Rayo and ClassAction.org. 

How to proceed

• Identify your vehicle's details: Determine if your Highlander is included in any of these lawsuits by checking its model year, VIN, and the specific defect alleged.
• Gather evidence: Collect any repair invoices, service records, or documentation related to the defect.
• Contact an attorney: Speak to a lawyer who specializes in consumer or automotive class action lawsuits to understand your options and how you may be affected by an ongoing investigation or settlement. 
• Check settlement websites: Visit official settlement websites if they are available for a specific lawsuit, as they often provide important information and instructions for potential claimants. 

Is 35 mpg good for hybrids?

Good mileage for a hybrid is anything between 35 and 50 mpg, depending on the vehicle size. An interesting consideration with hybrid cars is that they get better gas mileage during city driving than they do on the highway, so it's important to know what kind of driving you tend to do.

What is the real mpg of a Toyota hybrid?

The Toyota Prius one of the most famous hybrids out there, and it's exceedingly popular not only as a family car, but also with fleets and taxi firms. With a real-world average of 50.5mpg it's very cost-effective to run.