Toyota's Highlander Hybrid makes its debut as the world's first seven-passenger hybrid SUV and marks the launch of a second hybrid vehicle from Toyota. The 3.3-liter V-6-equipped Highlander Hybrid will be powered by a new version of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, specifically developed to meet the load-carrying requirements of a midsize SUV. The hybrid system features a larger-capacity battery and high-speed electric motor that combine to provide double the power and speed of the system in the Prius, promising a combined peak horsepower of approximately 270 horsepower and 0-60-mph acceleration below 8 seconds. Highlander Hybrid will come standard-equipped with front-wheel-drive and offer an electric four-wheel-drive with intelligence (4WD-i) system that utilizes front and rear electric motors to deliver balanced power to all four wheels along with nearly instantaneous acceleration. Toyota officials said the 4WD version will be the hot ticket, delivering more power to the ground and recovering more energy thanks to the additional motors. The Highlander Hybrid will join the Motor Trend Car of the Year award-winning Prius in early 2005, offering all the options currently found in the 2004 Highlander.
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