Safety, of course, is a vital consideration for those who use their SUVs as family conveyances. The 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers a stability control system and a tire pressure monitoring system as standard equipment, while front seat-mounted side airbags as well as side curtain airbags for the second and third rows are optional. In fact, all of the options available for the regular Highlander will also be up for the taking on the Hybrid, including a navigation system. The Toyota Highlander is an appealing package, combining the well-mannered driving characteristics of a Camry (upon which the Highlander is based) with the cargo-carrying functionality and high ride height of an SUV. Previously, hybrid technology had mostly been used in pod-shaped oddities like the Honda Insight and the first-generation Prius, both of which attracted attention but fell short in terms of functionality. With the melding of impressive fuel economy, near-zero tailpipe emissions, all-wheel-drive, space for seven occupants and the power of a V6 engine, the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid brings this technology to the masses. And if this isn't mainstream enough, Honda has announced that a hybrid-powered Honda Accord will arrive later this year. That's good news for everyone - except, maybe, OPEC. Don't worry about them, though. The Hummer H2 is still a big seller. -- Photos Courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales, USA
|
