Upcoming Hybrid Highlander 2005

If you go to the toyota site, there is a preview of the upcoming Hylander.

 

There is at least one topic about the 2005 Highlander (which many of us are starting to call the "Hylander") in the "Other Cars" forum on this Web site.

There is also some information on the Toyota Web site ( http://www.toyota.com ).

It is supposed to go on sale in the U.S. in early 2005. It will have a 6 cylinder engine that takes regular gasoline. The combined gas+electric horsepower will be higher than that of the currently available 6-cylinder Highlander. It will be available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel drive version will use an additional electric motor for the rear wheels. Otherwise, the drive train will be similar to that on the Prius, but with a larger battery. I believe it will be available only with 3 rows of seats, but the back 2 rows of seats can be folded up if you would prefer to have more cargo space.

 

http://carsontoyota.com/html/highlanderhybridform.html
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Cost Savings
You really can have your SUV and MPG too.

Tenacious. Not your usual automotive word, but one that aptly describes the “no compromise†attitude of the Highlander Hybrid. It has all the power, versatility, refinements and comfort of a Mid-size SUV, yet the fuel economy of a compact sedan. In fact, it’s poised to boast the best fuel economy in its class [1] and have a cruising range of over 600 miles on a single tank of gas. [1] On top of the dollars you’ll save at the pump, you may also qualify for a federal tax break.

[1]Based on preliminary data from Toyota Motor Corporation.

Power/Performance
The power to move forward…quickly.

The Highlander Hybrid will be known for many things, but first and foremost will be horsepower. The 3.3-liter DOHC 24-valve VVT-i V6 gas engine and electric motor combine for an estimated 270 total horsepower. It’s power that that rivals many V8 engines without sacrificing fuel economy and blows away any hybrid misconceptions. Just look at the facts:

• 0-60 mph in less than eight seconds
• Instantaneous response from electric motor
• High-capacity storage battery
• Sophisticated energy load management system for optimum driving performance
• Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission


Interior Space
The world’s first 7-passenger hybrid SUV [1]

Everyone (and everything) is welcomed within Highlander Hybrid’s spacious interior. The hybrid SUV captures all of its traditional counterpart’s interior versatility:

• 7-passenger seating capacity
• Third-row seat with 4-step recline and fold-flat-into-floor capability
• 60/40 reclining split fold-down flat second-row seat with slide-forward capability (walk-in system on second-row passenger side)
• Maximum 80.6 cubic feet of cargo space (with second- and third-row seats folded flat) [1]

[1] Based on production vehicle.


Low Emissions
The future of the SUV is suddenly clear.

An environmentally-sensitive SUV? No, it’s not an oxymoron. As a matter of fact the Highlander Hybrid prides itself on having lower emissions than many conventional gasoline-powered vehicles. In fact, it is engineered to achieve the EPA’s rating of SULEV (Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle). And in stop-and-go driving conditions (notorious for pollution) its emission systems are even more efficient.

HYBRID SYNERGY DRIVE® SYSTEM
Hybrid Synergy Drive® Pure power for both worlds.

Highlander will feature two versions of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive: a front-wheel drive model and a 4-Wheel-Drive with intelligence (4WD-i ) model. The 4-wheel drive Highlander’s Hybrid Synergy Drive® combines the power of a 3.3-liter DOHC 24-valve VVT-i V6 gas engine with the efficiency of two high-torque electric motors. Using a series of sophisticated computers and sensors, it constantly monitors multiple on-road variables to provide an ideal blend of power and fuel efficiency for any driving situation.

LOW SPEEDS
From initial acceleration to low speeds, power is provided by 4WD-i Highlander’s high-torque electric motors. Unlike a conventional engine that needs to rev up to reach its torque potential, each electric motor achieves maximum torque from the start, giving Highlander plenty of power from the get-go. Energy is supplied by a compact, durable high-capacity storage battery. Whenever the power supply is low, Highlander automatically recharges the battery without needing to be plugged in.

NORMAL CONDITIONS
In normal driving conditions the Highlander runs on the front motor and is assisted by the engine as needed. For exceptional highway performance, Highlander’s gas engine powers the wheels and electric motor via the generator. As with low-speed driving, battery recharging may also occur -- the key to why Highlander never needs to be plugged in.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
During heavy acceleration, 4WD-i Highlander delivers smooth, seamless instantaneous acceleration from the gas engine and the electric motors. Additional energy is supplied by the battery. In special 4WD driving conditions (such as slick road conditions) the rear motor engages to assist with supplemental power.
DECELERATION/BRAKING
During deceleration/braking, Highlander’s electric motor becomes a generator converting otherwise wasted kinetic energy into electricity stored in the high-capacity battery. For sudden stops, Highlander’s conventional brakes are also applied.
AT A STOP
As the Highlander slows down and comes to a stop, its gas engine shuts off to conserve fuel and reduce emissions as the electric motors stand silently ready for action


Photos & Options
Uncommon technology disguised in a familiar package.

Highlander Hybrid Options

• Power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade
• Driver and front passenger seat-mounted side and front- and second-row side curtain airbags[1]
• Driver and front passenger heated seats[2]
• JBL Premium 3-in-1 AM/FM Cassette/CD with eight speakers in six locations
• JBL Premium 3-in-1 AM/FM Cassette/6-disc in-dash CD changer with eight speakers in six locations[3]
• Rear-seat DVD entertainment system with rear-seat audio and two wireless headphones
(includes 115V power outlet and RCA jacks)[4, 5]
• Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
• Color-keyed front and rear mudguards
• Power driver's seat with 8-way adjustment, plus power lumbar support
• Urethane steering wheel with cruise and audio-mounted controls[6]
• Color-keyed rear spoiler
• Fog lamps
• Power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade
• Driver and front passenger seat-mounted side and front- and second-row side curtain airbags[1]
• Driver and front passenger heated seats[2]
• JBL Premium 3-in-1 AM/FM Cassette/6-disc in-dash CD changer with eight speakers in six locations
• JBL Premium 3-in-1 AM/FM Cassette/6-disc in-dash CD changer, touch-screen DVD navigation system[7]
and eight speakers in six locations
• Rear-seat DVD entertainment system with rear-seat audio and two wireless headphones
(includes 115V power outlet and RCA jacks)[5]

Highlander Hybrid Packages
Convenience Package- includes roof rack system, multi-function remote keyless entry system and
tonneau cover
Preferred Package[8] - includes fabric-trimmed power driver's seat with 8-way adjustment plus power lumbar support, engine immobilizer, illuminated vanity mirrors and HomeLink®[9] universal transceiver
Leather Seat Package[8] -includes leather-trimmed seats, 8-way power adjustable driver's seat (with power lumbar support), and fore and aft headrest adjustments, leather-trimmed steering wheel with cruise and audio-mounted controls and shift lever, HomeLink®[9] universal transceiver, engine immobilizer and illuminated vanity mirrors
Cold Weather Package - includes heated folding color-keyed power outside mirrors and heated
windshield wiper de-icer grid
Towing Prep Package - includes transmission oil cooler, trailer prewiring harness and 3,500-lb.
towing capacity[10]
[1] The Toyota driver, front passenger, front seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags are Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS). The driver and front passenger airbags are designed to deploy in severe (usually frontal) collisions where the magnitude and duration of the forward deceleration of the vehicle exceeds the design threshold level. The side airbags and side curtain airbags are designed to inflate in severe sideimpact collisions. In all other accidents, the airbags will not inflate. To decrease the risk of injury from a deploying airbag, always wear seatbelts, sit upright in the middle of the seat as far back as possible from the airbag modules and do not lean against the door. Do not put objects in front of an airbag or around the seatback. Do not use rearward-facing child seats in any front passenger seat. The force of a deploying SRS airbag may cause serious injury or death. Please see your Owner's Manual for further instructions.
[2] Requires Leather Seat Package.
[3] Requires either urethane steering wheel with audio controls or Leather Seat Package.
[4] Requires either urethane steering wheel with audio controls or Leather Seat Package on Highlander (leather-trimmed steering wheel is
standard on Limited).
[5] Requires power moonroof.
[6] Requires JBL audio.
[7] The Toyota touch-screen DVD navigation system is designed to assist in locating an address or point of interest. Discrepancies may be encountered between the system and your actual location. Changes in street names, road closures, traffic flow or other road system changes may affect the accuracy of the mapping software. Rely upon your common sense to decide whether or not to follow a specified route. Detailed coverage not available in every city. Optional periodic geographical updates available at an additional cost. See your Navigation System Owner's Manual and your Toyota dealer for further details.
[8] Requires Convenience Package.
[9] HomeLink® is a registered trademark of Johnson Controls, Inc.
[10] Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up properly and you have all necessary additional equipment. Do notexceed any Weight Ratings and review all instructions and cautions from your trailer hitch manufacturer and Toyota vehicle Owner's Manual. Note that the maximum amount you can tow depends on the total weight of any cargo, occupants and available equipment in the vehicle.


Highlander Hybrid FAQs:
Some common questions regarding an uncommon vehicle.

When you're leading hybrid technology by a vast margin, there are bound to be questions. Which is why we've listed the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) of Highlander Hybrid below.

1. What is Toyota’s commitment to hybrid technology?
For the last decade, Toyota has been committed to the development of hybrid vehicle technology. In 1997, we were the first automaker to sell a mass-produced hybrid vehicle in the world (Prius in Japan). Since then, the second generation Prius introduce Hybrid Synergy Dive which helped it win the coveted Motor Trend “Car of the Year†award.
We believe that our latest generation of hybrid technology -- Hybrid Synergy Drive® -- offers drivers the best of both worlds: maximum driving performance with the least impact on the environment. It can be deployed on virtually any platform in the Toyota family, and will serve as the basis of our expanded hybrid lineup over the next decade.

2. When and where will Highlander Hybrid be available for sale?
By early 2005, all Toyota dealerships throughout the U.S. will sell and service the 2005 Highlander Hybrid. Check the Dealer Locator for the dealer nearest you.


3. What am I compromising with the Highlander Hybrid?
Nothing. The Highlander Hybrid was designed to make no compromises. With the breakthrough technology of Hybrid Synergy Drive,® we’ve overturned conventional wisdom that says you have to sacrifice performance and spaciousness to achieve high fuel economy or low emissions.

4. What is Highlander Hybrid’s fuel economy?
Despite its size, the 2005 Highlander Hybrid will be one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market -- due to its amazing Hybrid Synergy Drive® powertrain. And Highlander Hybrid can travel over 600 miles between fill-ups.

5. What is the emission rating of Highlander Hybrid?
Highlander Hybrid will be certified as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV).

6. What are the features and specifications of the car?
To view a listing of current features and options, visit Highlander Hybrid’s Options page.

7. Is Highlander Hybrid available in a manual transmission?
No. Highlander Hybrid’s Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) comes standard with the Highlander Hybrid, and in fact, is an integral component to the amazing performance of Hybrid Synergy Drive.®

8. Do I need to plug Highlander Hybrid in?
Never. The Highlander Hybrid automatically recharges its batteries using regenerative braking, or by running the gasoline engine. The driver never needs to worry about recharging the battery.

9. Do I need to use special gasoline?
No. Highlander Hybrid can be fueled with regular 87-octane gasoline, saving you money at the pump.

10. Can the Highlander Hybrid be jump-started?
Yes. Should you need it, Highlander Hybrid can be jump-started with any standard 12V DC power source, and it actually requires less power than a conventional car. Simply connect the cable clamps to access points under the hood (which are connected to the auxiliary battery near the cargo area) and energize the computer. Please see your Owner’s Manual for further instructions.

11. Can Highlander Hybrid run on electricity when it runs out of gas?
No. Though Highlander Hybrid can operate in electric-only mode when gasoline is in the tank, it is not designed to run without gasoline. Doing so could cause severe damage to the hybrid system, so drivers should be sure to keep gas in the tank at all times.

12. How does Highlander Hybrid safety features compare to other Toyota SUVs?
The Highlander Hybrid is equipped with all the advanced safety features of any other Highlander. Highlander Hybrid helps avoid accidents altogether with a standard Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist,[2] plus available Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)[3] with Traction Control (TRAC). In an emergency, its strong mono-form shape, front crumple zones, standard driver and front passenger multi-stage airbags,[4] and available driver and front passenger front seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags [4] help shield its occupants from harm. A low tire pressure warning system is standard and the battery is sealed inside a built-in security case to prevent any leakage or shock in the case of an accident.

13. How often does Highlander Hybrid need to be serviced?
Highlander Hybrid needs no more servicing than a conventional SUV.

14. What tax or other incentives are available upon purchasing a Highlander Hybrid?
Toyota expects that buyers of the 2005 Highlander Hybrid will be eligible for a federal tax deduction [5] if purchased by December 31, 2005. In addition, numerous states offer financial or other incentives for hybrid vehicle purchases (or leases), so check your local regulations and be sure to consult with a tax advisor.

15. Can Highlander Hybrid drive in carpool lanes with a single occupant?
Current federal law prohibits hybrid vehicles from traveling in the carpool lanes with just the driver. However, certain states may have exemptions to this law, so check your state’s regulations.


[2] Brake Assist is designed to help the driver take full advantage of the benefits of ABS. It is not a substitute for safe driving practices. Braking effectiveness also depends on proper brake-system maintenance and tire and road conditions.
[3] Toyota Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is an electronic system designed to help the driver maintain vehicle control under adverse conditions. It is not a substitute for safe driving practices. Factors including speed, road conditions and driver steering input can all affect whether VSC will be effective in preventing a loss of control. Please see your Owner's Manual for further details.
[4] The Toyota driver, front passenger, front seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags are Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS). The driver and front passenger airbags are designed to deploy in severe (usually frontal) collisions where the magnitude and duration of the forward deceleration of the vehicle exceeds the design threshold level. The side airbags and side curtain airbags are designed to inflate in severe side-impact collisions. In all other accidents, the airbags will not inflate. To decrease the risk of injury from a deploying airbag, always wear seatbelts, sit upright in the middle of the seat as far back as possible from the airbag modules and do not lean against the door. Do not put objects in front of an airbag or around the seatback. Do not use rearward-facing child seats in any front passenger seat. The force of a deploying SRS airbag may cause serious injury or death. Please see your Owner's Manual for further instructions.
[5] Available to retail purchasers (leases will not qualify) only for purchases completed during calendar year 2003 according to federal tax law as of 9/15/03. Consult your own tax advisor for possible additional tax benefits and details.

 

MasterSgtBob,

Before you settle on the Hylander, you might want to try sitting in a Prius. I was impressed with the ease of getting in and out. Some have complained about the firm seats, I think that they are pretty comfortable.

Bob

 

From what Toyota is saying on their Web site, no, you don't have the choice about the 3rd row of seats.

You do have the choice of Limited or regular (unLimited?).

The Hylander will undoubtedly have a much larger gas tank than the Prius, so 600 miles per tank is probably only thirty-something MPG, maybe pushing 40 mpg at best on a good day.

If you have a limited budget, then, like me, you are probably dreading to see what they are going to charge for even the regular (unLimited?) Hylander. Probably more than they are charging for the current V6, would be my guess.

Until they can get the volume up and the cost down, I suspect that Toyota will be trying to hide the costs of the hybrid technology in high-priced vehicles.