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2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.60
Based on 53 Owner Reviews
Drew B | March 31, 2025
The 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a mid-size SUV that marries the practicality of a family vehicle with the fuel efficiency of a hybrid. Part of the first generation Highlander Hybrid (2006-2007), it came in a single well-equipped trim. New, it was priced in the $33,000 - $37,000 range. Its popularity stemmed from its spacious interior, smooth ride, and significantly better fuel economy than its gasoline-only counterpart, making it a pioneer in the hybrid SUV segment. Its blend of utility and fuel savings made it a standout choice.
The Good

The 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers a compelling blend of advantages. Practical buyers appreciate its Toyota reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious cabin. Emotional buyers are drawn to its smooth and quiet hybrid powertrain, comfortable ride, and the "green" appeal of driving a hybrid SUV. It delivers a surprisingly responsive performance, feeling more nimble than expected, making it a versatile and satisfying vehicle.

The Bad

While generally reliable, the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has potential weaknesses. Watch for battery degradation, especially in older models. The hybrid system can be expensive to repair. Some owners reported issues with the multi-information display and early signs of rust in certain climates. Regular maintenance of the hybrid components is critical to avoid costly repairs down the line.

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Quick Overview

Key Specs for the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid:

  • Engine: 3.3-liter V6 engine combined with an electric motor.
  • Horsepower: Total system output of 268 horsepower.
  • Fuel Economy: EPA estimated 27 mpg city / 25 mpg highway. Actual mileage may vary.
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.6 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 pounds with the optional towing package.
  • Trim Levels: Offered in a single, well-equipped trim.
  • Key Features (Standard):
    • Automatic climate control
    • Power windows and locks
    • Cruise control
    • Premium JBL audio system
    • Leather seats (optional)
    • Power moonroof (optional)
    • Navigation system (optional)
    • Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
    • Traction Control (TRAC)
    • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
    • Side curtain airbags

The 2006 Highlander Hybrid aimed to provide a luxurious and comfortable driving experience while maximizing fuel efficiency, resulting in a well-rounded SUV option for its time. Its single trim level simplified the buying process while still offering a range of desirable features.

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2006
Make Toyota
Model Highlander
Trim -
Style 4-Door 4WD V-6
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In Japan
Manufacturing City MIYAWAKA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 1925.5 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 2574.13 kg
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 3MZ-FE + 1JM, 2FM
Engine Size 3.3L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission continuously Variable
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds Continuously Variable
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $39,290 USD
Invoice Price $35,198 USD
Delivery Charges $645 USD

Vehicle History Report

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Analysis

What Problems Does the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid often revolve around the hybrid system's battery life and performance. Battery degradation is a common concern as the vehicle ages, leading to reduced fuel economy and potential replacement costs, which can be significant. Some owners have experienced issues with the hybrid system's control module and inverter.
Recalls for the 2006 Highlander Hybrid have included issues related to the hybrid system and potential fuel leakage. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN against the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns also include potential rust, particularly in areas with harsh winter conditions and road salt. The multi-information display screen can sometimes fail, and repairs can be costly. Regular maintenance, especially of the hybrid system, is crucial to mitigating these potential issues. Due diligence and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.

How long will the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid last?

With proper maintenance, a 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report 15-20 years of service. However, long-term durability hinges on diligent maintenance, especially regarding the hybrid battery. Neglecting the hybrid system can lead to premature battery failure, significantly impacting its lifespan. Rust can also be a problem in certain climates. Monitoring and addressing any mechanical issues promptly are crucial for maximizing its longevity.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time.
Entertainment: It came standard with a premium JBL audio system, and a navigation system was available as an option. There were no modern smartphone integration features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Driver-Assistance: Driver assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It included cruise control, but lacked features like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring.
Safety: Standard safety features included antilock brakes (ABS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control (TRAC), and a suite of airbags, including side curtain airbags for enhanced protection. Optional features included daytime running lights.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA gave it a five-star rating for frontal and side-impact protection for both driver and passenger. The IIHS gave it a "Good" rating in frontal offset crash tests. These ratings provided peace of mind for families seeking a safe and reliable vehicle.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Sand Pearl
Bluestone Metallic
Classic Silver Metallic
Desert Sand Mica
Gold Metallic
Phantom Gray Pearl
Polar White
Sonora Gold Pearl
Strata Blue Pearl
Interior Colors
Taupe Interior
Gray Interior

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was priced between $33,000 and $37,000, depending on options. Current used market prices range from approximately $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been significant, but typical for a vehicle of its age. Factors affecting resale value include the condition of the hybrid battery, overall mechanical health, rust, and mileage. Well-maintained models with documented service history command higher prices. Replacement of hybrid battery will greatly impact the price.

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid are generally moderate, similar to other mid-size SUVs. Fuel costs are lower than non-hybrid counterparts, thanks to its better gas mileage. Maintenance can be economical if routine services are followed; however, hybrid system repairs can be expensive. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on the condition of the hybrid battery. Replacing it can be a major expense. Overall, it's moderately costly to own, depending on potential hybrid system repairs.

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 65.11 liters
City Mileage 11.48 km/l
Highway Mileage 10.63 km/l

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Poor
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Recalls & Defects

Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Recall date 2006-07-13
Recall no. 06v253000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Sport Utility and Hybrid Vehicles, THE Two Retaining Clips FOR THE Driver's Side Forward Center Console CAN Become Loose. IF Both Clips Separate From THE Floor Carpet Cover, THE Cover MAY Lean Toward THE Accelerator Pedal, Causing Interference With THE Accelerator Pedal Rod.
Consequence This Condition MAY Interfere With THE Accelerator Pedal Returning TO THE Idle Position Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Two Floor Carpet Cover Retaining Clips Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 24, 2006, and Should BE Completed BY Early September 2006. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331 or Lexus AT 1-800-255-3987.
Notes Toyota Recall NO. 60F and Lexus Recall NO. 6ld.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Recall date 2011-02-24
Recall no. 11v112000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2006 Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, and Model Year 2004-2007 Lexus Rx330, Rx350, and Rx400h Vehicles. IF THE Forward Retention Clip Used TO Secure THE Floor Carpet Cover, Which IS Located IN Front OF THE Center Console, IS NOT Installed Properly THE Cover MAY Lean Toward THE Accelerator Pedal and Interfere With THE Accelerator Pedal Arm.
Consequence IF This Occurs, THE Accelerator Pedal MAY Temporarily Become Stuck IN A Partially Depressed Position Rather Than Return TO THE Idle Position. A Stuck Accelerator Pedal MAY Result IN Unintended and Sustained Vehicle Speeds and Make IT Difficult TO Stop, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Floor Carpet Cover With A Newly Designed ONE Free or Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin During March 2011. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Toyota Safety Recall BOA Lexus Safety Recall NO. Blc.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date 2010-10-21
Recall no. 10v499000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2006 Avalon, Model Year 2004-2006 Highlander, Model Year 2004-2006 Lexus RX, and Model Year 2006 Lexus GS and IS Vehicles. Brake Fluid Containing Polymers IS Used That Acts AS Lubricants FOR Certain Brake System Components. IF Replacement Brake Fluid IS Used That Does NOT Contain Such Polymers, or That Contains Only Small Amounts, A Part OF THE Rubber Seal Located AT THE Rear OF THE Brake Master Cylinder MAY Become Dry, and THE Seal MAY Curl During Movement OF THE Piston. IF This Occurs, A Small Amount OF Brake Fluid Could Slowly Leak From THE Seal Into THE Brake Booster.
Consequence A Leak OF Brake Fluid Could Lead TO A Change IN Brake Pedal Feel and Overtime A Degradation IN Braking Performance Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Seal With A Newly Designed One. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON November 15, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331 and Lexus AT 1-800-255-3987.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2010-02-03
Recall no. 10v036000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2011 Passenger Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence A Driver MAY Overload A Vehicle Which MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date 2011-11-09
Recall no. 11v539000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004 Avalon Vehicles; 2004 and 2005 Camry, Camry Solara, Highlander, and Sienna Vehicles, 2006 Highlander Hybrid; 2004 and 2005 Lexus Es330 and Rx330; and 2006 Lexus Rx400h Vehicles Manufactured From June 1, 2004 Through March 31, 2005, Equipped With THE 1mz-Fe or 3mz-Fe Engine. THE Amount OF Adhesive Agent Applied Between THE Outer Ring and THE Torsional Rubber Damper (Inner Ring) IN THE Crankshaft Pulley MAY BE Inadequate. IF THE Adhesive IS Insufficient, There IS A Possibility That THE Outer Ring MAY Become Misaligned and IT MAY NOT Properly Rotate With THE Inner Ring, Causing Noise And/Or Illumination OF THE Battery Discharge Indicator Light.
Consequence IN Some Cases, THE Belt FOR THE Power Steering Pump MAY Become Detached From THE Pulley Which Could Result IN A Loss OF Power Steering and A Sudden Increase IN Steering Effort, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Check THE Crankshaft Pulley TO Identify Whether IT WAS Produced BY THE U.s. Supplier. IF SO, THE Dealer Will Replace THE Pulley With A NEW ONE AT NO Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin During Early January 2012. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System
Recall date 2011-06-29
Recall no. 11v342000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2007 Highlander Hybrid and Lexus Rx400h Passenger Cars Manufactured From February 16, 2005, Through August 30, 2006. A Module Inside THE Inverter Module MAY Contain Inadequately Soldered Transistors That During High-Load Driving, MAY BE Damaged BY Heat Caused BY THE Large Current. IF This Occurs, Various Warning Lamps, Including THE Malfunction Indicator Lamp, Slip Indicator Light, Brake System Warning Light, and Master Warning Light, Will BE Illuminated ON THE Instrument Panel.
Consequence THE Vehicle MAY Enter A Fail-Safe/Limp-Home Mode That Limits THE Drivability OF THE Vehicle. IT IS Possible That THE Hybrid System Will Shut Down While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven, Causing THE Vehicle TO Stall Unexpectedly, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota/Lexus Mailed AN Interim Owner Notification ON July 19, 2011 TO Advise Owners OF This Recall and THE Fact That They Will Receive A Future Notice When Parts Become Available TO Complete Repairs. Toyota Dealers Will Inspect THE Hybrid Inverter Production Number TO Determine Whether THE Inverter Contains Suspect Transistors and Replace THE Module Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2009-06-15
Recall no. 09v223000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling 27,080 Model Year 2005 Through 2010 Passenger Cars Built From September 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. These Vehicles Were NOT Equipped With Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels Could Result IN THE Vehicle Being Overloaded, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners and Provide Them With A New, Accurate Label TO BE Installed Over THE Inaccurate Label Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON August 18, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-888-270-9371.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2010-02-03
Recall no. 10v035000
Source NHTSA
Summary Gulf States Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2010 Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Between September 1, 2005 and June 2, 2008 Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence This Does NOT Meet THE Standard Requirements.
Remedy Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. Dealers Will Also Correct THE Owner's Manual. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Gulf States Toyota AT 713-580-3300.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Hybrid Propulsion System: Inverter
Recall date 2013-09-04
Recall no. 13v396000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2010 Highlander Hybrid Vehicles Manufactured February 16, 2005, Through July 29, 2010; and Model Year 2006-2008 Lexus Rx400h Vehicles Manufactured February 23, 2005, Through December 2, 2008. THE Intelligent Power Module (Ipm) Inside THE Inverter Module MAY Contain Transistors That Have Higher Operating Temperatures Than THE Solder CAN Support and THE Transistors MAY BE Heat Damaged BY THE Solder. IF This Occurs, Various Warning Lamps, Including THE Malfunction Indicator Lamp, Slip Indicator Light, Brake System Warning Light, and Master Warning Light, Will BE Illuminated ON THE Instrument Panel.
Consequence THE Vehicle MAY Enter A Fail-Safe/Limp-Home Mode That Limits THE Drivability OF THE Vehicle. IT IS Possible That THE Hybrid System Will Shut Down While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven, Causing THE Vehicle TO Stall Unexpectedly, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE IPM Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331. Vehicles That HAD Their IPM Replaced Under Recall 11v-342 ARE NOT Affected BY This Campaign.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date 2014-11-19
Recall no. 14v743000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4X2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4X2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4runner. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Experience Compression OF THE Seat Cushion Which MAY Damage THE Seat Heater Wiring.
Consequence Damage TO THE Seat Heater Wiring Could Cause THE Wires TO Short, Increasing THE Risk OF THE Seat Burning and Causing Personal Injury TO THE Occupant.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Heaters With Copper Strand Heating Elements and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Began IN January 2015. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date 2016-06-02
Recall no. 16v396000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain 2005-2011 4runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander Hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry Hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla Vehicles Equipped With Aftermarket Accessory Seat Heaters With A Copper Strand Heating Element. THE Electrical Wiring IN THE Seat Heaters MAY BE Damaged When THE Seat Cushion IS Compressed.
Consequence IF Damaged, THE Copper Strand Heating Element MAY Short Circuit, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Seat Heaters, Free OF Charge, and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory. THE Recall Began ON July 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226. SET Number FOR This Recall IS Set16b.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Insurance

Insurance for a 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid competed with other mid-size SUVs, including the Honda Pilot, Nissan Murano, and Ford Explorer. Compared to the Pilot, the Highlander Hybrid offered better fuel economy, though the Pilot had a larger interior and more seating. The Murano provided a more stylish design but lacked the Highlander's hybrid efficiency. The Explorer offered a more truck-like experience with higher towing capacity, sacrificing fuel economy.
In terms of reliability, the Highlander Hybrid held a slight edge, consistent with Toyota's reputation. Feature-wise, they were generally comparable for the time. Price-wise, the Highlander Hybrid was typically a bit more expensive upfront but offered long-term fuel savings.
Alternatives to consider include later model Toyota Highlander Hybrids, which offer improved technology and potentially newer batteries. The Lexus RX 400h (a luxury version of the Highlander Hybrid) also presents a similar alternative. If fuel economy isn't the top priority, the Honda Pilot remains a strong competitor with more interior space.

Ranks #149 SUV

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is ideal for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and reliability in a mid-size SUV. It's worth buying used if you find a well-maintained model with documented service history and a healthy hybrid battery. A pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic specializing in hybrids is essential. Avoid models with significant rust or those that have neglected maintenance. If you need more space or towing capacity, consider other options. The main concern is the potential replacement cost of the hybrid battery, so factor that into the overall purchase decision.

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Owner Reviews

4.60
Consumer Rating, Based on 53 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Marty on August 4, 2023

250,000 still great

Ordered a new limited in 2005. We still have it. It has been a great car and still in great condition with 250,000 miles. Looking to buy a new one and keep the 2006.

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Ann D Lawrence on July 26, 2022

Highlander Hybrped

I bought this car 2006, Highlander Hybrid used, maybe 7 years ago. It has been faultless in it performance and currently has 98,926 miles which is low, I believe. Still very happy with my Highlander. I do find that it will take on rain water, a bit, if I park it with front sloping downward in my drive though. So I try to reverse it if I’m expecting rain.

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Bert on April 30, 2022

Still Great

Bought this 2006!Tkyota Highlander Hybrid Limited new way back when. 16 years later, still great. Only 170,000 miles, with original Hybrid batteries. Sure wish Toyota would offer an EV of this caliber.

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EWOK on April 1, 2022

Way better than a Ford Escape!

in 2019 I traded in my 2013 Ford Escape and bought a used all-wheel-drive 2006 Hylander Hybrid Limited. This is way better than any Ford, period! Solid and dependable!

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Hihy on February 18, 2021

Best car EVER

I've had this baby for 5 years and shes at 290k miles and running like a top. Still on original hybrid battery and regular oil changes. Gets great gas mileage, hauls all my stuff and friends, and the AWD system got me through 3ft deep snow in Chicago during a blizzard without issue, never got stuck even once. You can get one cheap nowadays, it's totally worth it.

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LJ on January 5, 2021

She just keeps on going and looking smart!

This vehicle cannot be beat! While owning my Highlander since 2007, I purchased a new 2013 Hyundai Equus thinking I wanted a luxury vehicle, drove it for about a year, kept my Highlander and turned the Equus over to my Son! My Highlander is sharp, comfortable, reliable, has only 169,000 miles on it and I understand I'll be able to drive her another 130,000 miles, so it could very well turn out to be the last car I need to purchase. The turning radius is excellent, the visibility is great, easy to enter and exit, easily carries 7 people (8 if they're small) and can haul lots of stuff which I do frequently. Everything about this vehicle is wonderful. In looks, it stands up to the newest, sharpest SUV out there I use it for business, pleasure, long trips, you name it! Can you tell that I'm a huge fan of my 2006 Toyota Highlander Limited Hybrid???

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HoosierDaddy on September 29, 2020

Great, all around mid-sized SUV

I purchased this car used when there was still some hesitation out there in buying a used hybrid. It's been a great car and averages around 25 mpg actual driving. That's pretty good considering it has the 3rd row and is an all wheel drive vehicle. Plenty of storage and enough tech to to not be left too far behind. Very smooth driving & great JBL audio with the disc changer. No back-up camera or blue tooth. Love the Highlander in general- would buy again.

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TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID on September 27, 2020

Most Reliable Car I have drive it

This car meets all the needs. It is an exdelent condition. Good for commute to work. I have recommand this car to my firends and family.

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healthyeater51 on August 8, 2020

abs actuator recall - expired

This car has a problem with the ABS actuator . Can be a 2,500 too 3,000. fix. even though it was a recall previously. other than that car runs great. The actuator failing makes loud noise every time you step on brake. Moving or not. My car has 101,000. miles on it.

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Chiefs fan on July 8, 2020

Most reliable hard working car I’ve ever owned.

Needs a new crank shaft. This is the first major repair the car has ever needed. Fuel efficient and quiet. Smooth comfortable ride with plenty of cargo space.

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Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma