The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is coming with the same four-cylinder engine under the hood. The three-row SUV lacks power, which is obvious. But, the Highlander makes it up with exceptional gas mileage. The SUV sits at 35 mpg. No other mid-size model can do a similar return. Even in the compact crossover class we can’t find too many vehicles with such rating.
Toyota is preparing an upgrade that should solve the power issue. The new 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid might get a plug-in variant. From what we see in the rest of the lineup, the SUV is about to offer extra power, while keeping the gas mileage at a very high level.
For the new season, this vehicle is available with extra grades. Now, the hybrid version offers five trim levels. The 2024 Highlander PHEV will probably inherit all but the entry-level one, with small modifications of packages.
2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Gas Mileage
The main thing about the SUV is its fuel economy. Toyota made a stunning move by dropping a V6 plant. Engineers sacrificed power to gain extra miles. Well, the 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid will definitely draw more buyers thanks to the 35 mpg rating. A 2.5-liter petrol engine comes with an electric support, but the system produces only 245 hp. That is way under the average for the mid-size class and Highlander’s main downside. But, the PHEV setup can fix that.
A CVT is a power router. By default, the engine is sending power to front wheels. If you want AWD, another electric motor will be installed on the rear axle. However, it won’t change the outputs. The mileage drops by 1 point. Towing capacity of the hybrid SUV is just 3,500 pounds.
Plug-In Hybrid Range and Specs
Standard hybrid is still the class-leading model when it comes to fuel economy. But, 245 horsepower is definitely not something we expect from a three-row SUV. So, the 2024 Highlander Plug-In Hybrid is about to enhance the power with a more potent electric motor. We assume the mid-size SUV could get the same system the Rav4 crossover is using. With 302 hp, it would settle down the critics.
Nevertheless, the PHEV should be there to impress. On the compact crossover, it delivers way more power than rival models. The Highlander PHEV would be at the same level with base configurations of SUVs it competes. So, a more potent combo could be out. We assume a 2.4-liter turbo engine and a hybrid system can be a solution. The score should settle around 350 hp. On the other hand, the gas mileage won’t be so high. Still, the upcoming SUV will offer at least 30 mpg.
Grades and Options
The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid carries over all the options, while the PHEV model comes with some unique features and upgrades. So, the base version is the LE (L is for the SUV with petrol only engine). Highlights of this grade are the power liftgate with adjustable height, projector headlights, blind-spot monitor, 8-inch touchscreen and Smart Key system with push-button start.
The XLE adds a few notable features. The power sunroof is one of them, and it opens/close on a simple touch. The XLE also comes with heated front seats, wireless charger and 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Again, the Safety Sense 2.5+ packs all the necessary systems.
The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Bronze edition sits in the middle of the offer with a $46k price tag. Unique colors and themes are available. You are getting 18-inch bronze wheels, interior stitches, floor mats, and illuminated doorsill with metal plate. Of course, all finishes are bronze.
The top of the range packages are Limited and Platinum. The first one packs the SUV with the JBL sound system, hands-free power liftgate, 20-inch wheels, and Panoramic View Monitor. Leather seats are with memory functions for drivers and front row is heated/ventilated. The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum adds a few advanced options and missing stuff from all the previous trim levels.
2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid and PHEV Release Date
Since the standard model is coming unchanged, we are only waiting for the announcement of the 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid with a plug-in system and all the details about the new SUV. It might take some while, since everything about the upcoming model are just rumors. The company is not confirming speculations. So, we hope that by the end of 2023, we’ll get more about the Highlander PHEV.
Anyway, it will cost significantly more than the base hybrid. Its price is $40,500 for the entry-level LE. The XLE is still under $45,000 and the Bronze Edition breaks that mark. Limited package is close to $50,000. The new Platinum grade will be around $52,000 before you make any upgrades. Toyota will provide enough optional features and packages, including fresh colors.