The Toyota Highlander is a popular mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Understanding its miles per gallon (MPG) ratings is essential for potential buyers and current owners looking to manage fuel costs effectively.
Overview of the Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is designed to cater to families and individuals seeking a versatile SUV with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. It’s known for its smooth ride, advanced safety features, and a range of engine options that provide a balance between power and fuel efficiency. With both gas-only and hybrid models available, the Highlander offers something for everyone, including those who prioritize eco-friendliness and lower fuel consumption.
36 mpg combined.
The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of the most efficient 3-row SUVs you can buy. It is rated at 36 mpg combined (36 city/35 highway) with FWD
Comparison with Previous Models
The fuel economy of the Toyota Highlander has generally improved over the years. For instance:
- The 2022 Highlander had similar ratings, with gasoline models achieving about 21-22 MPG city and 28-29 MPG highway.
- Older models, like the 2017 Highlander, typically averaged around 18-21 MPG, depending on the engine and driving conditions.
Factors Affecting MPG
Several factors can influence the actual MPG you achieve with your Toyota Highlander, whether it’s a gasoline or hybrid model:
- Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, can lower your MPG. Smooth and steady driving helps maximize fuel efficiency.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and tire pressure checks, ensures that your Highlander runs efficiently. Poor maintenance can lead to lower fuel economy.
- Load and Weight: Carrying heavy loads or towing can significantly reduce your MPG. The Highlander is capable of towing, but doing so will require more fuel, especially with a gasoline engine.
- Weather Conditions: Cold weather can reduce fuel efficiency as the engine takes longer to warm up and achieve optimal performance. Additionally, using air conditioning or heating can increase fuel consumption.
- Terrain: Driving on hilly or mountainous terrain requires more power, which can decrease MPG compared to flat or level roads.
Conclusion
The Toyota Highlander is a well-rounded mid-size SUV that offers impressive fuel efficiency, especially in its hybrid variant. The Toyota Highlander offers competitive fuel economy for a mid-size SUV, especially with its hybrid variant. With ratings of up to 36 MPG for hybrids and around 22-29 MPG for gasoline models, it provides a practical balance of performance and efficiency.