Toyota Highlander II 3.5 V6 (280 Hp) Hybrid 4WD-i e-CVT


Overall Rating

8.5 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Toyota Highlander:

The Toyota Highlander , also known as the Toyota Kluger in some markets, is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by Toyota since 2000.
The Highlander was announced in April 2000 at the New York International Auto Show, arriving in Japan in late 2000, and North America in January 2001. It was among the first of a new class of mid-size SUVs that were based on a car platform. At the time, the Highlander was built on the company's existing Toyota K architecture, shared with the Camry. The Highlander became Toyota's best-selling SUV in the US before being surpassed by the smaller RAV4 in 2006....(Read more on Wikipedia)

II Overview:

Toyota Highlander (II). With 337 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.4 l/100km). At around 2045 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.2 s). The top speed reaches 180 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Toyota Highlander II generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. Safety ratings for this model are primarily available from North American organizations like NHTSA and IIHS.

3.5 V6 (280 Hp) Hybrid 4WD-i e-CVT Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers a slight but noticeable boost in system power to 280 Hp, resulting in quicker acceleration (8.2 sec 0-100km/h) and even more responsive driving dynamics.

Fuel Economy

Maintains excellent fuel efficiency at 9 l/100 km combined, matching the 3.3L hybrid despite the increased power output, showcasing superior hybrid optimization.

Best Use Case: Ideal for drivers seeking enhanced performance and responsiveness from their hybrid SUV without compromising on fuel economy, suitable for all driving conditions.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional Toyota reliability and durability
  • • Spacious and versatile interior with available third-row seating
  • • Smooth and comfortable ride quality
  • • Strong V6 engine options and highly efficient hybrid powertrains
  • • Good resale value

Cons:

  • • High fuel consumption for non-hybrid V6 models
  • • Less engaging driving dynamics compared to some rivals
  • • Interior materials, while durable, can feel dated or less premium
  • • No Euro NCAP safety rating available for this generation

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(II: 2007 - 2013).

General:
Brand:Toyota
Model:Highlander
Generation:II
Modification (Engine):3.5 V6 (280 Hp) Hybrid 4WD-i e-CVT
Start of production:2011
End of production:2013
Powertrain Architecture:FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Body type:SUV
Seats:7
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:245 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:70.9 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:337 Nm @ 4700 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:2GR-FXE More details about the engine 2GR-FXE
Engine displacement:3456
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC, VVT-i
Engine oil capacity:6.1 l
Coolant:13.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:94 mm mm
Piston Stroke:83 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.8:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:8.7 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:9 l/100 km
Emission standard:SULEV
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:8.2 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:8.2 sec
Maximum speed:180 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.3 kg/Hp, 136.9 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6.1 kg/Nm, 164.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2045
Max. weight:2720
Max load:675
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2282 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:292 l
Fuel tank capacity:65 l
Size:
Length:4785 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:1910 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1760 mm mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2790 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1625 mm
Rear (Back) track:1625 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):206 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.8 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureAn Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. There is an ability for running in full electric or mixed mode.
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typee-CVT
Front brakesVentilated discs, 327.66 mm [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc, 309.88 mm [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size245/55 R19
Wheel rims size7.5J x 19
Front suspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear suspensionIndependent coil spring
Electric:
Battery technology:Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)
Battery location:Below the floor, under the rear seats
System power:280 Hp
Electric motor power:167 Hp @ 4500 rpm.
Electric motor Torque:335 Nm @ 0-1500 rpm.
Electric motor location:Integrated into the transmission
Electric motor type:Synchronous
Battery voltage:288 V

What’s the best feature of the Toyota Highlander? Tell us in the comments!