Toyota is known for its reliable vehicles which makes the brand the best choice for buyers. If you are interested in a hybrid, consider the following three model years. They offer an ideal mix of affordability and reliability for under $20,000.
2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
US News rounded up the most used hybrid SUVs on a budget. The top-rated model is the 2009 Toyota Hybrid. It boasts a total of 9.1 out of 10. The average used car buyer paid $9,500 to $14,000 for this used model. However, because it’s an older SUV, its interior is sparse on features.
it is standard. This configuration allows this 2009 SUV to get 27 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined.
It also boasts a perfect five out of five in reliability from JD Power. However, it does have a pull. The problem is related to the SUV’s electrical components potentially not having enough lubricant. Authorized dealers will apply lubricant to or replace components.
2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Overall, the 2010 Toyota Highlander is similar to the 2009 model—both SUVs have the same powertrain and specs. However, the 2010 version has an overall US News score of 9.0 out of 10, slightly lower than the 2009 score. This hybrid SUV takes second place.
And because it’s a year younger than its big brother, it’s also more expensive. Used car buyers pay an average of $12,500 to $13,500, according to US News. That said, this model year has a few more features than the 2009 version, including .
It also earned a five out of five in reliability from JD Power and is included in the same recall as the 2009 model.
2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
While the 2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid isn’t much younger than the 2009 or 2010 models, it has a significantly lower overall score from . It received 8.3 out of 10, placing it 16th on the list of 64 used hybrid SUVs. Expect to pay between $13,000 and $18,500 for one. This used Highlander is still similar to the 2009 and 2010 models, but Toyota has made some significant changes.
Its exterior styling was updated and third row seats became a standard feature. it also gave it a new hybrid powertrain: a 3.5-liter V6 with a 280-hp electric motor. It still has a CVT, but this setup allows the hybrid SUV to get 28 mpg combined.
Additionally, its JD Power reliability score is an excellent (but not perfect) 4 out of 5. The same recall as the 2009 and 2010 models applies here as well.
