For the 2008 model year, the Highlander Hybrid joined Toyota's growing fleet of fuel efficient gas-electric automobiles. The system combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor to produce 209 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 212 pound-feet of torque at 3600 rpm.

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Not only were engineers able to increase engine power, they were able to maintain Highlander Hybrid's impressive fuel economy at 31 city and 27 highway.

Offered in both Base and Limited grades, all Highlander hybrids will feature Toyota's advanced VDIM stability system. The system enhances handling and traction control systems that normally react to an already unstable condition by anticipating tire slippage before a skid, slide or wheel spin occurs and make stabilizing corrections more promptly.

The new Highlander gained about 500 pounds, growing significantly in every dimension and receiving extensive body and chassis reinforcement, aimed specifically at achieving best-in-class crash ratings.

Highlander Hybrid rides on an all-new chassis derived from the current Camry and Avalon. It is nearly four inches longer and three inches wider, with an inch more ground clearance and three inches of additional wheelbase.

The Highlander's second-row features captain's chairs with armrests that, if needed, can be converted to a bench seat for three passengers. A "Center Stow" seat, when not in use, is hidden in a compartment under the front center console. In its place, passengers can easily snap in the provided center stow center console or choose to leave the area open as a walk-through to the third row. The second row also slides forward and back 4.7 inches and reclines.

Standard features include: a third-row bench seat with foldable headrests for a flat rear cargo area; a rear glass hatch for quick access to the back (optional on base grades); and "Smart Start and Entry" for "Limited" models.

Nineteen-inch alloy wheels are standard on both Sport and Limited models.

An array of options and accessories are offered, such as a power backdoor that can be opened and closed with a key fob, a navigation system with an eight-inch screen, a rear-seat entertainment system with a nine-inch screen, and three-zone air conditioning.

Other options include: JBL audio with six-disc changer and nine speakers with Bluetooth; third-row seat delete to create a second-row model; leather seat trim and heated seats; and a tow package with a 5000-lbs. maximum towing capacity (class-leading for car & van-based mid SUVs).

As with all Toyota SUVs for the last three years, Highlander provides Toyota's STAR safety system, featuring: anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and for the first time, enhanced vehicle stability control with electronic power steering.

On all models except the base models, it will provide a standalone backup camera with a multi-information screen, not tied to a navigation system. The crossover is the first Toyota division vehicle to feature both active head restraints and a new hood and fender system designed to crumple on impact with a pedestrian.