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Early reports of Highlander Hybrid test drives will excite anyone considering an SUV. The Hybrid Synergy Drive® powertrain sports a V6 engine, but performs like a V8. Highlander Hybrid has exceptional low-end torque thanks to the hybrid electric motors. Drivers say it makes no concessions and offers a fresh and completely satisfying SUV experience.
Performance and utility count in SUVs, and the mid-size Highlander Hybrid meets the test at every turn. The standard front-wheel drive 3.3-liter DOHC 24-valve VVT-i V6 gas engine works with an electric motor for a combined estimated 268 total horsepower. The variable gear set brings no-shift smoothness to the SUV experience. Optional 4WD-i (four-wheel drive with intelligence) adds an electric motor to the rear axle for powerful four-wheel performance on demand. All this comes with a SULEV (super ultra-low emission vehicle) rating and an impressive targeted EPA mileage estimate.
Prius, on the other hand, has its own balance of fuel economy, performance and emissions. Based on results, this mix is right on target! Prius made a huge impression in the marketplace, exceeding all sales expectations. Toyota is responding with another significant increase in production, and an allocation of 100,000 units to the U.S. market in 2005. There are no major changes for Prius in 2005, except for the selection of features in some option packages.
Hybrid vehicles are a "no-turning-back" phenomenon in the automotive industry. They are here to stay. Hybrids have proven themselves in the market, and will appear in more Toyota vehicles and those of other automakers over the next several years. Future innovations, such as fuel cell vehicles, will be built on hybrid platforms.
Prius gave the automotive world a huge wake-up call in 2004, and Highlander Hybrid just may repeat this performance in 2005!
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