2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Independent review & score by Carivo
Independent review & score by Carivo
| Engine | 2.5L 4-Cylinder |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Automatic (AV-S6) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
| City / Hwy MPG | 36 / 35 MPG |
| Combined MPG | 36 MPG |
| Est. Annual Fuel Cost | $1,900 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 245 g/mi |
| Seating Capacity | 7 passengers |
| Body Style | Hybrid |
| Base Price | $40,020–$48,458 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
With an overall Carivo score of 8.0/10, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid earns a Recommended rating among the hybrids we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.8/10, while Performance at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Toyota Highlander Hybrid's reliability at 8.8/10 — among the strongest in our hybrid database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. Safety is a strength too — 8.6/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.6/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology comes in at 7.5/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $40,020–$48,458, 34 MPG, seating 7, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid sits in the mid-market bracket of the hybrid segment. The 8.0/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this hybrid delivers more than most of the class. At 4 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in performance are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid ranks #94 of 135 hybrids in the Carivo database — better than 31% of the segment. Its 8.0/10 overall score is 0.2 points below the segment average of 8.2/10. Its $40,020 starting price is about 27% above the segment's median of $31,584.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full Hybrid ranking → · Best Hybrids under $50k →
Smart-money pick: the 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid scores 7.9/10 — within striking distance of the 2022's 8.0 — and starts roughly $4,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 8.3/10 | $43,852 | Read review → |
| 2025 | 8.3/10 | $43,852 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 8.2/10 | $42,575 | Read review → |
| 2023 | 8.1/10 | $41,297 | Read review → |
| 2022 (this review) | 8.0/10 | $40,020 | |
| 2021 | 8.0/10 | $38,743 | Read review → |
| 2020 | 8.0/10 | $37,466 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 7.9/10 | $36,188 | Read review → |
| 2018 | 8.0/10 | $34,911 | Read review → |
| 2017 | 7.9/10 | $33,634 | Read review → |
We rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's reliability 8.8/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
It scores 8.0/10 overall, ranking #94 of 135 hybrids in our database (better than 31% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid starts at $40,020 and ranges up to $48,458 across trims (MSRP when new). At 34 MPG, expect roughly $1,544/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Other hybrids at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Explore the full lineup of Toyota models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.