For the 2011 model year, the Highlander Hybrid has been overhauled—outside, inside and under the hood. It has no real competition in its class—an SUV suited to “large families who love hybrids.”

The new gas-electric Highlander is outfitted with a brand-new 3.5-liter V6 engine, replacing the 3.3-liter six of its predecessors. The dual-overhead cam Atkinson-cycle engine is rated at 231-horsepower, an increase of 22-hp over the 2010 edition. In addition, two electric motors join this powertrain, one in the front and one in the rear, boosting the overall horsepower to a very respectable 280.

The result is an EPA fuel mileage rating of 28 miles per gallon city and highway. That’s up from last year’s numbers of 27 mpg and 25 mpg respectively. It’s only available as a four-wheel drive vehicle. The HH’s most desirable features: family-friendly seating. A third row comes standard. And this vehicle offers a wonderful 40/20/40-split second-row bench seat. It reclines, slides fore and aft and the center section can be removed and stowed away, leaving an open center aisle.

Price: $37,490
MPG: 28 city / 28 highway