If you’re shopping for a family vehicle that offers the compact feel of a smaller SUV with improved fuel efficiency, consider the 2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
Hybrids have advanced significantly in both design and performance over the years. The 2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combines attractive styling with strong performance and family-friendly practicality.
Space, storage, and tech
The Highlander Hybrid seats up to eight with its third row. That third row is compact compared to larger SUVs — adequate for kids and short rides, but less comfortable for adults on long trips.
Front and middle-row legroom are generous. On our test drive the middle row comfortably accommodated several children and adults, who reported good comfort for everyday use.
Rear cargo capacity is practical for family needs. We easily loaded chairs and umbrellas for a full family outing with room left for groceries and gear.
What stands out is the thoughtful design of smaller storage areas. For people who spend a lot of time driving kids or working on the go, well-placed compartments make daily life easier.
The center console is notably large — it easily held a packed crossbody bag with camera gear, demonstrating practical capacity for everyday essentials. That kind of usable storage is a win for busy parents and professionals.
A useful ledge beneath the radio and glove compartment provides a handy spot for phones, tissues, or snacks. Above that, the dash houses a clear rearview camera display. The model also includes a perimeter scan system that provides rotating, 360-degree views when parked, helping with tight parking situations.
Charging is straightforward with five USB ports — three in the front and two in the rear — eliminating the usual fights over outlets on long drives.
Performance
Hybrids can be surprisingly quiet at start-up, and the Highlander Hybrid is no exception. The silence can make you double-check that the vehicle is on, but it’s an appreciated trait for many drivers.
The EPA ratings for this model are about 30 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, and it carries a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle designation. Power comes from a 3.5-liter V6 combined with an electric motor for a total system output of 280 net horsepower. Acceleration feels responsive, with good pickup for merging and passing.
Safety
The Highlander Hybrid includes Toyota’s expected safety suite, such as the Star Safety System with features like Anti-Lock Brakes and Traction Control, plus an advanced airbag system with eight airbags.
Additional driver-assistance features include Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, both valuable for family driving. Lane Departure Alert is available and can be turned off if you find its sensitivity too high, which is useful for drivers who prefer fewer alerts on minor lane position shifts.
Wrap up
The 2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a well-rounded choice for families seeking a comfortable, efficient, and practical hybrid SUV. It offers roomy front and middle seating, practical cargo and storage solutions, modern tech conveniences, and a suite of safety features that suit busy family life.
Pricing for this model starts near $36,000 and can rise to around $50,000 depending on trim and options.
Would you consider a vehicle like this for your family? Which features matter most when you shop for a new car?
The vehicle shown was provided for a one-week test drive for the purpose of this review. All opinions and photos are the reviewer’s own.