We already compared few most popular mid-size three-row crossovers. However, one of them is very interesting because it is different than others. The only SUV that will offer the hybrid drivetrain is 2019 Toyota Highlander. Toyota, as a leader in this segment, is improving this system for next year. So, its crossover will be more powerful and more economical at the same time.
Whatsoever, hybrid sales take an only minor share of the total market. The petrol engine is also reliable and potent. Other advantages of the 2019 Toyota Highlander will be its safety and comfort, although it is not as spacious as Honda Pilot. Also, if you need a crossover that can tow a lot, Highlander is not the best solution, since there are Dodge Durango and Chevy Tahoe. These two are ahead of Toyota’s SUV.
2019 Toyota Highlander Specs
A 3.5-liter V-6 engine is very reliable and durable. Previous editions can prove it, and it is hard to imagine the 2019 Toyota Highlander without this drivetrain. It is also pretty potent, with outputs of 295 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, buyers of the Highlander will get an 8-speed transmission. This combo is good for 23-24 mpg combined, depending on trim level.
A V-6 returns better mileage than its 4-cylinder alternative. It works better on the highway. A 2.7-liter unit is good for 24 mpg, while 3.5-l can make 27 mpg outside the city traffic. Furthermore, the smaller unit can produce only 185 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Models with this engine cost less.
Highlander Hybrid
As we already mentioned in our review about 3-row mid-size SUVs, the 2019 Toyota Highlander will still be the only plug-in model. In future, Honda is also considering to bring its Pilot, but until it shows up, Highlander will have a monopoly. This crossover uses its trusted V-6 drivetrain to combine it with a 650-volt battery. An electric battery is not radically changing horsepower output with just 10 extra horses. Also, the mileage on the highway remains the same, but the consumption is city ride drops to 30 mpg.
Changes on the 2019 Toyota Highlander Interior
Outside, the 2019 Toyota Highlander is not suffering big changes. More attention designers will turn to the cabin. Not only that upper trim levels will bring more luxurious equipment, but also the base model. We still don’t have confirmation, but new seating layout will create more room for taller persons. All trims having the Limited suffix will come with premium materials and top-notch features.
2019 Toyota Highlander Spy Shots and Release Date
Although we don’t have clear spy shots to prove the existence of the 2019 Toyota Highlander, some experts claim they saw test mules. The vehicle will be official soon, so there is not the reason for hiding it.
According to rumors, the new 2019 Highlander will have a debut before the summer. But again, without spy photos, we could doubt that SUV will come so soon. Whatsoever, the company is working on it. Finally, there is a possibility to see a new hybrid version before the petrol unit. With it, Toyota would cement its place right at the top of the plug-in segment, no matter if Honda launches the Pilot.
