Forums (& the internet in general!) skew negative. People with problems are just much more likely to post than the vast majority of people who are happy with their vehicles. I own a Toyota Tacoma & spend lots of time on the TacomaWorld forum. Based on that forum, you'd think the Tacoma was to...
Can't imagine there would be much effect. From previous experience with the trucks that I've owned, highway mpg actually seemed to get better with a topper. Less wind resistance maybe? Also, I'd wait to see what Leer & ARE do as far as bed caps go. The OEM Ford SnugTop cap is way too expensive...
I guess I'm not understanding the issue. This is a hybrid vehicle, not an electric one. In hybrid cars, the ICE is running for 99% of the time. The electric battery is supplemental/secondary...
In my experience, every bed cap/canopy I've ever put on the trucks that I've owned has at some point leaked. And I've try all the major brands. Some leaked right away, some developed leaks later on. I just learned to live with it. You can have the installers try to redo the gaskets around the base?