Will there be a 2024 Highlander hybrid?
Yes—the 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was released, continuing Toyota’s midsize SUV hybrid lineup with a 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain, about 243 horsepower total, and seating for up to eight. It combined efficiency with the practicality buyers expect from the Highlander family SUV.
What was the 2024 Highlander Hybrid?
The 2024 Highlander Hybrid used the same core powertrain as recent years: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors and an electronic CVT, delivering a combined around 243 horsepower. It offered front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard and all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option, with a towing capacity near 3,500 pounds. The lineup preserved seating for up to eight passengers (with a 7-seat option in some configurations) and was not a plug-in hybrid—the battery recharges through the gasoline engine and regenerative braking rather than plugging in.
The following list highlights the key specifications and capabilities of the 2024 Highlander Hybrid:
- Powertrain: 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine + two electric motors with an electronic CVT; total system output around 243 horsepower.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (standard) or all-wheel drive (optional) on most trims.
- Fuel economy: approximately 36 mpg combined with FWD and around 35 mpg combined with AWD (numbers vary by trim and driving conditions).
- Towing capacity: up to about 3,500 pounds.
- Seating and space: up to eight passengers, with a 7-seat arrangement (captain’s chairs) available on some configurations.
In summary, the 2024 Highlander Hybrid offered a familiar blend of efficiency, practicality, and family-friendly space, without a plug-in charging option.
Trims and features
The 2024 Highlander Hybrid lineup typically included LE Hybrid, XLE Hybrid, Limited Hybrid, and Platinum Hybrid, with features increasing at each step to deliver more comfort, technology, and luxury interiors. Availability of options such as larger touchscreens, leather seating, and premium audio varied by trim and market.
The following list outlines the general trim progression and what buyers could expect as they moved up the lineup:
- LE Hybrid — baseline efficiency with essential safety tech and typical interior comforts.
- XLE Hybrid — adds extra comfort and tech enhancements, with upgraded seating and larger display options.
- Limited Hybrid — mid‑to‑high range features including premium interior touches and enhanced infotainment.
- Platinum Hybrid — top-tier equipment, premium materials, and the fullest suite of technology and driver-assistance options.
Across trims, standard safety and driver-assistance features from Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ were common, with higher trims adding advanced comforts and tech packages.
Fuel economy, charging and real-world performance
Important notes for buyers: the Highlander Hybrid is a conventional hybrid (HEV) and does not plug in to recharge. Its battery is charged through the gasoline engine and regenerative braking, and real-world fuel economy depends on driving conditions, load, and style. Towing and acceleration performance can vary with trim level and drivetrain.
The following list highlights practical takeaways for performance and efficiency:
- Plug-in capability: not offered on the 2024 Highlander Hybrid; owned and operated as a standard hybrid.
- Real-world mileage: typically in the mid-30s mpg range, with slight variations between FWD and AWD.
- Driving feel: smooth acceleration with the hybrid system, plus the versatility of optional AWD for inclement weather.
For shoppers, the key is to balance the need for passenger capacity and cargo space with the desire for efficiency, and to select the trim that best matches technology and comfort preferences.
Shopping tips and availability
When considering a 2024 Highlander Hybrid, compare trims for features like infotainment size, upholstery, and driver-assistance packages. Availability can vary by market and dealership, and some regions may have promotional pricing, finance offers, or package options that influence the final configuration.
Summary
The 2024 Highlander Hybrid existed as part of Toyota’s ongoing hybrid lineup, offering a capable, efficient family SUV with 243 horsepower, 3,500-pound towing capacity, and seating for up to eight. It delivered the expected Toyota reliability and Safety Sense protection, while lower to mid trims emphasized value and practicality, and upper trims added more premium features and tech. If you’re shopping for a 2024 Highlander Hybrid, expect a non-plug-in hybrid with multiple trims to fit different budgets and needs, and plan for real-world efficiency that generally sits in the mid-30s mpg range depending on drivetrain and conditions.
