Toyota continues to drive New Zealand towards lower emissions, recently adding the family favourite Highlander to it’s impressive range of hybrid powertrains.
Steve Prangnell, Toyota New Zealand General Manager of New Vehicle Sales and Product Planning says one in three of the company’s new vehicle sales are now hybrid.
“Hybrids are the stepping-stone to a lower carbon emission future,” he says. “The introduction of the new Highlander hybrid to our line-up extends our focus on moving our business towards a more sustainable low emission economy while simultaneously delivering our customers cost savings through increased fuel efficiency.”
“We are very confident of the potential for hybrid sales; in fact, we have ordered four hybrid Highlanders for every petrol version and customers have already placed over 500 orders for the new Highlander, with over 90% of those orders in a hybrid powertrain.”
The new hybrid variants will feature a revised version of the 2.5L petrol engine used in the RAV4, and an upgraded hybrid system. Together the combined petrol engine and electric motors offer plenty of power, enough to tow 2,000kg (braked). The larger drive motor produces a total system output of 184kW and a combined cycle fuel consumption of just 5.6L/100km. Like the RAV4, the rear wheels are driven by an E-Four AWD system.
The CO2 emissions are just 128g/km on the hybrid variants.
For those customers who still want a 3.5 V6 engine, Toyota New Zealand will continue to offer the petrol-only version in two grades.
The V6 engine featured in the GXL and Limited variants have engine stop/start functionality that helps reduce combined cycle fuel consumption from 9.5 litres/100km to 8.8 litres/100km.
“The decision to retain a V6 option in the 2021 Highlander line-up was driven by consumer demand – mainly from fleets. While Toyota will introduce more hybrid and pure electric cars to the market, we will continue to offer multiple powertrains to meet the needs of our customers,” Steve says.
“The all-new Highlander is the beneficiary of Toyota’s extensive experience in SUVs, adding the latest Hybrid technology to its unrivalled reputation for quality, durability and reliability.”
The 2021 Toyota Highlander features the latest in technology and safety; as well as a refreshed interior and exterior look.
The front of the new Highlander has a wider stance and features a high-gloss black grille framed in chrome. Inside, the new Highlander offers larger cabin, particularly for third row passengers – and increased luggage space. Entertainment and information are provided via a multimedia system with controls accessed on the steering wheel and an 8-inch touchscreen display atop the centre console. The system incorporates Bluetooth® connectivity, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility.
