Low emissions and excellent ratings for fuel economy from the EPA are standout features of the 2010 Toyota Highlander hybrid. It loves the earth. It features the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive System that combines its high-torque electric-powered motor/generator with a juiced-up 3.3L V6 engine that delivers 212 horsepower and 209 pound pound/feet of torque. Net horsepower ratings are reported at 270. The system also employs a continuously variable electronic gearbox to maximize efficiency. 2 trim levels are available: Limited and Base. Base models feature standard seating for 5 while Limited versions seat 7. For 2010, the Highlander hybrid is a strict carryover to changes made.

The NHTSA awarded the 2010 Highlander hybrid from Toyota 5 of 5 stars in driver's side frontal crash tests (4 stars for the passenger side). The impressive list of standard safety features includes:

• Loads of airbags including first, second and third row curtains;
• ABS and driveline electronic traction control;
• Height adjustable seat belts with pretensioners;
• Keyless access and entry;
• Parking assist and panic alarm;
• Engine disabling, first aid kit and tire pressure monitoring;
• And loads more...

Retail pricing for the Toyota hybrid Highlander 2010 ranges from $34,900 to $41,020. The Environmental Protection Agency reports estimates for fuel economy of 25/27 mpg city/highway. It stacks up very well against competitors including the Chevy Traverse, Mazda CX-9 and Nissan pathfinder. Featuring a maximum towing capacity of 3500 pounds, payload ratings for Base and Limited trims respectively are 1427 and 1359 pounds. Its 4508 pound curb weight (4641 pound Limited) is well balanced on its 109.8 inch wheelbase that clears the ground by 7.3 inches. Length, width and height measurements are 188.4 x 75.2 x 68.1 inches. On the inside, headroom, shoulder room, hip room and legroom measure 41, 60, 57 and 43.2 inches respectively. Base trims feature a standard luggage capacity of 42.4 cubic feet while Limited trims offer only 10.3 cubic feet. Both trims can expand their maximum cargo capacity to 94.1 cubic feet by folding the rear seating flat.

The all wheel-driven 2010 Toyota Highlander hybrid requires 19.5 feet of radius for turning. These are large, capable vehicles that make both drivers and passengers feel protected and confident. Optional features like OnStar automatic crash response, red emergency button-push assistance, stolen vehicle assistance, remote ignition block, stolen vehicle slowdown, turn-by-turn navigation and roadside assistance all act in conjunction to make your driving experience more pleasurable and safe. And although Toyota is currently struggling with an unprecedented recall, the Japanese giant is still the largest automaker on the planet. Decades and decades of dependability and excellent customer service standards are not to be forgotten.