Conclusion

How much more should someone pay to reduce their dependence on fuel and to pollute less? In the case of the Highlander Hybrid, $7,000 above a similarly equipped standard Highlander should about cover it. Problem is that at close to $55,000, the luxury SUV segment opens up. The likes of the Acura MDX and even Lexus RX330 find their way on the radar. I still say stripped-down versions of Hybrids should be made available. If we are trying to reduce our dependence, these vehicles should be more affordable. Because this is a Toyota product, I have no particular fears about quality and reliability. These trucks will have teething problems and they will be addressed by a manufacturer that will not sit idly by as others develop new technologies to improve our world.

I have not forgotten that Ford was first in the category with the Escape Hybrid. Seeing as though the midsize category counts for a very large portion of the sales pie, they do not directly compete with each other (in theory).

Good stuff:
Great power
Toyota quality

Not so good stuff:
Maybe it should have less power and be better on gas...

Competitors:
(Non-hybrids)
Honda Pilot
Ford Explorer
Subaru B9 Tribeca

(Luxury)
Acura MDX
Lexus RX330
BMW X5 3.0i