Looking for the perfect ride that combines fuel efficiency and versatility? Look no further than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid! This remarkable SUV has been turning heads with its eco-friendly design, but as we delve deeper, we uncover a few unexpected cons. Step inside and find a third row of seating that might leave your passengers feeling a bit cramped. Brace yourself for a rough ride that falls short of the smoothness you desire. And while the Highlander Hybrid boasts impressive technology, it is certainly lacking in features compared to its competitors. Join us as we navigate through the pros and cons of this hybrid marvel, and discover if it truly lives up to the hype.
What Are The Cons Of The Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has several cons that potential buyers should be aware of. The third row of seating is tight, which may be uncomfortable for passengers. The ride is heavy and unrefined, lacking the smoothness and comfort found in other vehicles. Another downside is the lack of excitement and unique selling points, making the Highlander Hybrid blend in with other SUVs on the market. Additionally, the third row seat and cargo area are smaller compared to competitors, limiting the space available for passengers and storage. There are also annoyances with the radio operation and shortcut icons disappearing when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Lastly, the Highlander Hybrid has a smaller interior compared to competitors, along with limited fuel economy. The turbo engine is loud, clattery, and has less horsepower than competitors, which may not be suitable for highway driving and heavy passing. Overall, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid may not be the best choice for those looking for a turbo engine option.
Key Points:
- Third row of seating is tight
- Ride is heavy and unrefined
- Lack of excitement and unique selling point
- Smaller third row seat and cargo area compared to competitors
- Annoyances with radio operation and shortcut icons disappearing when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- Smaller interior and limited fuel economy compared to competitors
- Turbo engine is loud, clattery, and has less horsepower than competitors
- Meager horsepower and hybrid system drone may not be suitable for highway driving and heavy passing
- Highlander Hybrid may not be the best choice for those looking for a turbo engine option.
Sources
https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2020-toyota-highlander-pros-cons-review/
https://www.autoblog.com/article/2023-toyota-highlander-review-buying-guide/
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/toyota/highlander-hybrid
https://www.cars.com/articles/2020-toyota-highlander-5-pros-and-4-cons-419123/
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💡 Pro Tips:
1. Storage space in the Toyota Highlander Hybrid may be limited compared to other competitors, so consider your cargo needs before purchasing.
2. If you prioritize a smooth and refined ride, the heavier feel of the Highlander Hybrid may not be ideal for you.
3. Take note of the potential annoyances with radio operation and shortcut icons disappearing when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in the Highlander Hybrid.
4. If you frequently engage in highway driving or require heavy passing power, the limited horsepower and hybrid system drone of the Highlander Hybrid may not be suitable for your needs.
5. Those specifically looking for a turbo engine option may want to consider alternative vehicles, as the Highlander Hybrid does not offer this feature.
Third Row Seating Is Tight
One of the main drawbacks of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is its tight third-row seating. While the Highlander Hybrid is a spacious SUV overall, the third-row seats can be quite cramped, especially for adults or taller passengers. This can be a significant disadvantage if you frequently need to accommodate more than five passengers, as the limited space in the third row may lead to discomfort during longer journeys. It is worth considering the needs of your passengers before deciding if the Highlander Hybrid’s third-row seating is suitable for your lifestyle.
Heavy And Unrefined Ride
Another downside to be aware of when considering the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is its heavy and unrefined ride. Compared to some of its competitors, the Highlander Hybrid can feel cumbersome and less nimble on the road. The suspension may also transmit more bumps and imperfections in the road surface to the occupants, leading to a less comfortable ride quality. If you prioritize a smooth and refined driving experience, you may find the Highlander Hybrid’s ride to be somewhat disappointing.
Lack Of Excitement And Unique Selling Point
While the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a reliable and practical vehicle, it lacks the excitement and unique selling point that some of its competitors offer. Some SUVs in the same class offer more dynamic styling, luxurious features, or advanced technology options that make them stand out from the crowd. If you are looking for a vehicle that not only serves its purpose but also has a “wow” factor or a distinctive feature that sets it apart, the Highlander Hybrid may not be the best choice for you.
Smaller Third Row Seat And Cargo Area Compared To Competitors
When it comes to overall space, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid’s third-row seating and cargo area fall short compared to its competitors. The limited room in the third-row seats can make them less comfortable for passengers, especially on longer trips. Additionally, the cargo area may not be able to accommodate as much luggage or equipment as other SUVs in its class. This lack of space could potentially limit the Highlander Hybrid’s versatility and utility, particularly if you frequently need to carry large items or have a larger family.
Annoyances With Radio Operation And Disappearing Shortcut Icons With Apple Carplay Or Android Auto
There have been some reported annoyances with the radio operation in the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, particularly when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Users have noticed that shortcut icons sometimes disappear or fail to function correctly, causing frustration and inconvenience. While this may not be a deal-breaker for everyone, it is important to note this potential issue when considering the Highlander Hybrid’s overall convenience and user experience.
Smaller Interior And Limited Fuel Economy Compared To Competitors
Compared to its competitors, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a smaller interior space. This may result in less legroom and overall comfort for passengers, particularly in the second and third rows. Additionally, the Highlander Hybrid’s fuel economy may not be as impressive as some of its rivals. While it is a hybrid vehicle and offers improved fuel efficiency compared to non-hybrid SUVs, there are other hybrid options in the market that offer better mileage. If you prioritize interior space and fuel efficiency, you may want to explore alternative options before settling on the Highlander Hybrid.
Loud, Clattery Turbo Engine With Less Horsepower Than Competitors
One aspect that potential buyers should consider is the noise and performance of the Highlander Hybrid’s turbo engine. Some owners have reported that the engine can be loud and clattery, which may detract from the overall driving experience. Additionally, when compared to its competitors, the Highlander Hybrid’s turbo engine has lower horsepower. This could impact the SUV’s acceleration and towing capabilities, potentially limiting its performance in certain situations.
Meager Horsepower And Hybrid System Drone Not Suitable For Highway Driving
Related to the previous point, the Highlander Hybrid’s meager horsepower and hybrid system drone may not be suitable for highway driving and heavy passing maneuvers. With its lower horsepower, the acceleration and overall responsiveness of the Highlander Hybrid may be less impressive compared to other SUVs in its class. Additionally, the hybrid system’s drone may become noticeable during prolonged trips or when trying to accelerate quickly. If you frequently drive on highways or need a vehicle with robust passing power, it is important to test drive the Highlander Hybrid and assess its performance before making a decision.
In summary, while the Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers a blend of reliability, efficient fuel economy, and practicality, it is essential to consider its drawbacks. The tight third-row seating, heavy and unrefined ride, lack of excitement and unique selling point, smaller third-row seat and cargo area compared to competitors, annoyances with radio operation and disappearing shortcut icons with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and smaller interior and limited fuel economy may impact the satisfaction and overall suitability of this SUV for potential buyers. Furthermore, the loud, clattery turbo engine with less horsepower than competitors, as well as the meager horsepower and hybrid system drone, may affect its performance, particularly on highways and during heavy passing. To make an informed decision, it is advisable to thoroughly evaluate and test drive the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, considering your specific needs and preferences, as well as exploring alternatives in the market.
As a seasoned mechanic and proud owner of three successful car workshops, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people just like you overcome their everyday automotive challenges. I created this website as a labor of love, with a simple mission: to make car maintenance and repairs more accessible and approachable for the “average joe.”