At the 2013 LA Auto Show, Toyota displayed a new Highlander Hybrid. This gas-electric mid-size hybrid is a seven-passenger SUV that saves gas and the environment.

The third-generation Highlander has an upgraded exterior styling with “flush-mounted roof rails for improved aerodynamics, and sculptured side-door panels,” according to a Toyota press release. The SUV comes with leather-trim seats in the first two rows, a 4.2-inch LCD multi-informational display and many other comfort and technology features including Entune Premium JBL Audio system with navigation and the App suite. There is an optional Blu-Ray rear seat entertainment system with an RCA coaxial input for external devices like a gaming system.

Seating inside the SUV will consist of the standard driver/passenger seating, second-row captains’ chairs and a 60/40 split bench third-row that can hold 3 passengers. There is also rear cargo space behind the third row. Additional features include:

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

Automatic High Beam Headlights

Panoramic moonroof

Heated steering wheel

The hybrid is powered by a “Hybrid Synergy Drive” system paired with a 3.5L V-6 engine with electronic all-wheel-drive. It will also include:

MacPherson strut front suspension

Double-wishbone rear suspension

Four-wheel disc brakes

19-inch Chromtec® alloy wheels

Toyota offers many safety features on this vehicle as well like a standard backup camera and hill start assist. It will also have the latest innovations like:

Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control

Traction Control

Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Brake Assist, an Anti-lock Braking System

Smart Stop Technology

Rear parking sonar

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Lane Departure Alert

Pre-collision System

The Highlander will come in two different trim lines: Hybrid Limited and Hybrid Limited Platinum. The MSRP for the limited is $47,300.

For the Hybrid Limited Platinum it will come with additional safety equipment and the panoramic moonroof, heated steering wheel and heated seats in the second row. The MSRP will be $49,790.

All Toyota Highlanders are built in the Princeton, Indiana. Replacement parts for older models are available through Olathe Toyota, click here to shop for them.

The new 2014 Highlander will hit dealer showrooms in February 2014.

Click here for the full press release.

Written by Tim Esterdahl