Mother Proof's view

I’m a sucker for fuel-efficient, moderately-sized-yet-totally-spacious, attractive-looking cars. The 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid delivers on all fronts. That’s a good thing, because with high gas prices, a budget to stick to, a wild toddler, a new baby on the way, a dog, a husband, a personal belief that style matters, and lots of accessories to tote around, I need all the vehicular help I can get.

As many women know, accessorizing can make or break an outfit. I’ve never publicly discussed this, but driving while accessorized is often difficult for me. My high-fashion, oversized sunglasses never ever fit into cars’ sunglass holders – a pet peeve of mine for years. I had low expectations for the fate of my sunglasses in the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid (Hi-Hy, as we like to call it at MotherProof.com). So imagine my surprise when the Hi-Hy’s sunglass holder gently took my designer shades in its cradle and closed easily. It was a dream come true, which also sums up my attitude toward the Hi-Hy. It fit me, my family and our things so easily that I was on a Hi-Hy high from the get-go.

The Hi-Hy’s plentiful cargo space gave me the biggest thrill. For an SUV that doesn’t look or feel big, this baby can pack a lot in. I have an ongoing quandary because I don’t love huge cars, but a teeny car just doesn’t cut it anymore. The Hi-Hy fit all our gear and had room to spare.

The captain’s chair conversion seats in the second row, which allow you to go from seating two people to three with a flip of the center console, was easy to use and fun, too. The optional third row also is easy to set up and access. As with many third-row optional cars, however, the rear cargo space is significantly diminished if you use the third row.

Honestly, the diminished cargo space is my biggest complaint about the Hi-Hy. Let’s get back to the good stuff – how about more accessory talk? There are 12 cupholders, which came in handy since I’m preggers and really thirsty all the time. You also can accessorize your Hi-Hy with a slick GPS navigation system that includes voice activation, a four-disc CD changer, Bluetooth and MP3 capability. Of course, the DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones would be a nice addition to any family outfit.

My son, who just started watching videos, was completely enthralled by his first in-car video experience. He wouldn’t keep the spiffy headphones on, but my husband sure enjoyed them… and “Thomas & Friends” (boys like trains; what can I say?). You might try the power moonroof on for size – it allows the sun to shed a little light on your face so you look positively fabulous on the road. And, of course, you also can run the front dual-zone climate control system as well as the auto rear air-conditioning system to make sure everyone is comfortable.

The Hi-Hy has a ton of options; but let’s get back to me. I recently rediscovered my favorite huge red handbag, which I somehow lost track of after my son’s birth, and it fit perfectly in the front center console. How great is that? My sunglasses in their cradle and my bag where I can reach it – life doesn’t get much better. If you believe in the power of accessories (or even if you don’t), give the Hi-Hy a try. It’s worth it.

*For more information on the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid and its safety features, visit Cars.com. With questions or comments regarding this review, write to editor@motherproof.com.

LET’S TALK NUMBERS

Latch Connectors: 2

Seating Capacity (includes driver): 7

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT

Storage Compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Galore

Cargo/Trunk Space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Ample

SENSE AND STYLE

Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Excellent

Fun Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove On): Good Times

Specs

2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Base price: $39,950

Price as tested: $47,714

Engine: 209-hp, 3.3L, V-6

Fuel: 27/25 mpg

Length: 188.4″

Width: 75.2″

Ground Clearance: 7.3″

Turning Radius: 19.5 ft.

Cargo space: 94.1 cu. ft. (with back seats folded)

NHTSA Crash-Test Ratings

Frontal Impact

Driver’s side: 5 Stars

Passenger’s side: 4 Stars

Side Impact

Front occupant: 5 Stars

Rear occupant: 5 Stars

Rollover resistance: n/a