By Toyota
(TORONTO) – Passenger car-like handling and control, the power and versatility of a mid-size SUV, and an innovative, future-friendly power train that maximizes power and torque while minimizing fuel use and emissions. Canadian drivers looking for all of that, and more, can find it in the 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

“The 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid features all of the great versatility of the conventionally powered gas model – then adds performance and efficiency that only Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive can deliver,” said Warren Orton, Director at Toyota Canada Inc. “With two models, accommodating five or seven passengers or 2.66m3 of cargo, it’s easy to take family, friends and gear wherever you want to go – with fewer stops for gas and the peace of mind of reduced emissions.”

The Highlander Hybrid’s powertrain was designed specifically for the needs of a mid-size SUV, with emphasis on performance, comfort, and efficiency. Built around a 3.3 Litre V6 and powerful, high-torque electric motors, the Hybrid Synergy Drive achieves 270 peak horsepower across a broad speed band, up to 212 lb-ft of torque, and a Tier 2 Bin 3 emissions rating. The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission selects the ideal balance of power, torque and fuel efficiency at every speed and under every driving condition. This plus an extensive suite of Toyota engine management technologies combine to deliver a combined city/highway fuel consumption rating of just 7.7 L/100 KM and remarkably powerful acceleration for confident driving.

Ready to handle anything, all Highlander Hybrid models are equipped with extensive handling and safety features, including:

* Seven standard air bags (dual stage driver and front passenger air bags, front seat mounted side air bags, driver knee air bag, roll-sensing front and rear head/side curtain air bags);
* Three-point lap and shoulder belts for all seating positions, including front seatbelt anchor height adjusters, pre-tensioners and force limiters;
* Ventilated front and rear disc brakes enhanced with Toyota’s Antilock Braking System, Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution technologies, plus the innovative electronically controlled hydraulic braking system and Toyota’s Integrated Regenerative Braking System, which captures energy that would otherwise be wasted during braking and uses it to charge the Hybrid Synergy Drive’s high-capacity storage battery;
* Highly responsive electric power steering;
* Toyota’s state of the art Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System, plus Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control technologies;
* The confidence of on-demand electronic four-wheel-drive;
* A specially designed suspension featuring front and rear anti-vibration sub-frames and stabilizer bars;
* Anchor points for child seats and child protector rear door locks.

The 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is on sale at Toyota Dealers across Canada now. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid carries a manufacturer’s suggested retail price starting at $42,725. The Toyota Highlander Limited’s suggested price starts at $54,775.