A Better 2008’s Model: The 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
One of the staples of the Sport Utility segment is the Toyota Highlander. In the previous model year released a brand new version of the Highlander with five versions: Base, Sport, Limited, Hybrid, and Hybrid Limited. Sales for the Highlander, especially the Highlander Hybrid, were brisk during 2009 and 2010. The improved vehicle quality and the classic styling were responsible for the sales boost.
Toyota Highlander Engine Specs
Toyota Highlander Engine Specs: The Highlander Hybrid comes outfitted with a 3.3 liter, 6-cylinder motor that uses 24 valves. The engine, manufactured by Toyota, is teamed up with a N/A 4-speed transaxle. This arrangement has demonstrated to be an effective style for Toyota.
The fuel system for the 2009 Highlander is a SFI design, running on ELECTRIC/GAS fuel. The fuel flow is regulated by a electronic system and is a fuel-injected MFI design. The storage capacity of the fuel tank is 18.50 gallons.
The Highlander uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The truck uses coil and coil springs front and rear respectively.
Vehicle Statistics
The Highlander is 189.20 inches long, 71.70 inches wide, and 57.90 inches high. It has a wheelbase of 109.30 inches. It is able to seat 5 comfortably.
The listed retail price in 2009 (MSRP) was $19,770, with an invoice cost of $18,088. This price is above average of the industry average price for a four-door Sport Utility.
The standard warranty period for the Highlander is 36 months, or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The warranty also includes a warranty on the drivetrain for 60 months or 60,000 miles respectively. This is standard in the sport utility market. Extended warranties are also available through the dealer.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2009 Highlander gets 31 miles/gallon on the highway and only 21 in the city. This is exceptional for a sport utility truck.
We Think…
The 2009 model year was telling year for the Toyota Highlander. The introduction of several trim levels (along with the Hybrid version) meant that buyers had several options to choose from..