From the outside, Highlander Hybrids look largely unchanged from their gasoline-only siblings, with the exception of a revised front grille and bumper (larger air inlets for improved cooling), rear LED taillights (use less power, have a longer life and illuminate more quickly for a speedier reaction time in those following), extra chrome trim, and standard 17-inch alloy wheels. Rear badges indentify both the Hybrid and 4WD-i versions.
Interior changes are relatively minor and mostly provide information about the hybrid system. The shift pattern is changed to P,R,N,D, and B for braking, which is similar to the lock-out switch on an overdrive transmission, and helps to regenerate energy through engine braking when coming to a stop, slowing, or descending hills. Optitron gauges include indicator lights that show the status of the main battery, as well as a power meter that replaces the tachometer and displays the total output of the engine and electric motors as well as energy recovery. The power meter also has a "blue zone" that depicts regenerative energy and engine braking power. In versions without a navigation screen, the multi-functional display adds an energy flow monitor and current fuel economy to other typical data, such as individual trip odometer, outside temperature, and average fuel economy.
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