35 MPG combined is a great figure for the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD. This isn’t a compact hatchback; it’s a practical three-row SUV with all-wheel drive, designed for families who need space, safety, and the ability to handle various road conditions. It achieves fuel economy figures rivalling some sedans, reflecting Toyota’s proficiency in hybrid technology.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Highlander Hybrid AWD at 35 MPG in both city and highway driving. This similarity is due to the hybrid system’s ability to recapture energy during braking and deceleration, heavily benefitting urban driving where stop-and-go traffic is common. On the highway, the hybrid system assists the 2.5L four-cylinder engine during acceleration and maintains efficiency during cruising. Real-world differences between city and highway MPG will depend on driving style and terrain, but the consistency of the EPA estimates suggests a minor difference in most situations.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,250 for the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your individual fuel costs will vary depending on how many miles you drive and where you live, as regional fuel prices can differ considerably. However, the $1,250 figure provides a good baseline for comparing the Highlander Hybrid’s running costs to other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing methodology, real-world fuel economy can change. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, weather, and even tire pressure can influence your actual MPG. However, Toyota hybrids generally perform close to their EPA estimates, and a careful owner should have no problem achieving figures in the low to mid-30s. Aggressive acceleration and frequent use of climate control can negatively impact fuel economy, while smooth and consistent driving yields the best results. The onboard trip computer provides real-time and average MPG readouts, allowing drivers to monitor their fuel consumption and adjust their driving habits accordingly.

How it compares

The Highlander Hybrid AWD offers good fuel economy, which many competitors in the three-row SUV segment simply cannot match. The gas-only Honda Pilot, for example, achieves around 22 MPG combined. Even the smaller Mazda CX-9, known for its driving dynamics, only manages about 23 MPG combined. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, popular choices in the segment, deliver similar figures to the Honda Pilot. While some plug-in hybrid SUVs offer superior MPGe figures, they often come with higher price tags and require regular charging. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan achieves impressive MPGe numbers, but it caters to a different customer segment. For buyers prioritizing fuel economy in a spacious, all-wheel-drive SUV, the Highlander Hybrid is a great value. For a broader view, see HIGHLANDER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Highlander Hybrid’s regenerative braking system. Anticipate stops and gently decelerate when possible, allowing the system to recover energy and reduce wear on the brake pads. Avoid abrupt braking and acceleration, which consume more fuel.

Minimize idling. The hybrid system will automatically shut off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, but prolonged idling still wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the vehicle completely, especially in situations like waiting in a parking lot.

Maintain optimal tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove unnecessary items from the roof rack, as they can significantly increase wind resistance and reduce fuel economy, particularly at highway speeds. Also, ensure that the tires are properly aligned, as misaligned wheels create drag.

Use the ECO mode. The Highlander Hybrid features an ECO mode that optimizes various vehicle systems for maximum fuel efficiency. This mode can reduce throttle response and adjust climate control settings to conserve energy. Explore all all Toyota fuel economy data.