2025 Toyota Highlander is a phenomenal SUV where the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander made its world premiere hours before the opening day of the Chicago Auto Show to showcase the latest and greatest addition to Toyota’s successful SUV lineup.
The Grand Highlander also offers several options from entry-level to efficiency and performance in one great package. There are three powertrains in three different classes:
As part of Toyota’s diverse approach to carbon neutrality, the Grand Highlander Hybrid and Hybrid MAX vehicles are part of a line that looks to be moving “beyond zero”. With ten hybrids, two plug-in hybrids, the new bZ4X battery electric vehicle, and Mirai’s zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell technology.
In this regard, Toyota remains committed to finding highly efficient, zero-emission solutions that fit the lifestyles of customers throughout the US. As a symbol of that commitment, the 2024 Grand Highlander will be the second Toyota vehicle to wear the new “Beyond Zero” badge, following the all-new Prius in its global quest to achieve carbon neutrality in Toyota products, manufacturing, and more.
- Balanced 2.4L turbo gas engine
- Three Powertrains Available, Adult Sized Third Row, and
- Spacious Cargo Space
- Outstanding Performance with 362 horsepower in the Hybrid MAX Powertrain
- Important features such as the available Digital Key and Standard 12.3-inch Multimedia Display
- Efficiency-leading 2.5L hybrid with a combined manufacturer estimate of 34 MPG
- Available technologies include Traffic Jam Assist, Head-Up Display, and Digital Rearview Mirror
2025 Toyota Highlander Review
One of the well-known car models is Toyota, which has experience offering eight SUVs of different types, one of which is the famous New Toyota Highlander 2025. This type of SUV has a square size in the middle.
With three rows of seats, the 2025 Toyota Highlander is perfect for growing families or large families. While it’s a family option with many kids, making it a big family, consider the larger Grand Highlander that debuted last year. There are all options depending on your needs.
It’s been five years since the latest generation of the Highlander debuted. We really hope there will be big changes for the 2025 model year. Even though it is a bit difficult, Toyota may update the Highlander’s styling or add some new standard features.
Although the Toyota Highlander’s EPA-estimated maximum of 25 mpg in city and highway driving is only slightly better than that of other SUVs, it can save quite a bit of fuel over time. If you want MPG results to be much more economical, the Highlander Hybrid model could be a good choice.
The 2025 Toyota Highlander also gets high marks for overall comfort thanks to its plush seats, smooth ride quality and quiet interior. Combined with solid fuel economy numbers, this car makes an excellent vehicle for road trips or daily commuting.
Key Features
- Comfortable and quiet ride
- Easy to see out
- Fuel efficiency is above average for a three-row SUV
- A Highlander-style refresh is possible in 2025
Updates: Toyota Highlander 2025
The 2025 Toyota Highlander in the future will become a very dashing vehicle in the Toyota SUV lineup. The Toyota Highlander has become the No. 1 retail midsize SUV. 1 for six consecutive years.
Highlander gives buyers even more reasons to choose this top-of-the-line SUV, starting with a new engine for the petrol model and also including a larger multimedia screen and other perks for greater value across all classes and powertrains.
We are seeing the Toyota Highlander receive a significant and beneficial makeover with a new, high-torque, high-efficiency turbocharged engine. The 265-horsepower, 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which uses a balance shaft for super-smooth performance, delivers 309 lb-ft of torque.
This is a significant 17% increase over the previous 3.5-liter V6 which weighed in at 263 lb-ft so far. Drivers will find this advantage in everyday driving situations, especially when taking advantage of the 7 or 8-seat Highlander and its large cargo capacity.
Its important fuel efficiency remains the same as the V6 for this higher torque engine with a combined 24 MPG estimated by the manufacturer.
With standards in all classes of environmentally friendly gases with a reduction in NOx and NMOG by more than 50% and an increase in CO2 emissions compared to the previous V6 engine.
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is also very attractive when equipped with a towing force of up to 5,000 pounds and includes Trailer Sway Control (TSC) which uses Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to help control unwanted trailer movement.
To help reduce fuel consumption and emissions, in this case, the Stop and Start Engine system with a good standard allows the engine to stop when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and immediately restart when the driver’s foot lifts from the brake pedal.
- The new high-efficiency turbo gas engine increases torque for better everyday responsiveness
- New 12.3-inch dual display for Limited and Platinum Models
- Power folding mirror adds convenience to the Limited and Platinum
- Hands-free power liftgate available in an additional grade
- Improved wireless charger location on the dashboard
2025 The Toyota Highlander is expected to come with three lines in 2025 as the latest updated model in the brand’s extended crossover lineup. The Grand Highlander will fill the role between the existing Highlander as a three-line, and the larger Sequoia.
The Toyota Highlander 2025 with the larger model will likely provide more space for passengers at the very rear as the layout may be a bit cramped for people in the third row.
If our 2025 forecasts for the Toyota Highlander are correct it will stick with the 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower (220 kilowatts) and 263 pound-feet (357 Newton meters.
Another option is the hybrid-assisted 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a combined total of 243 hp). (181 kW). ). Presumably, Grand Highlander will have the same options.
The new Toyota Highlander 2025 is also very interesting to test drive with a choice of hybrid powertrain engine options available in the Corolla Cross in some markets. Toyota is being cautious about whether the version for the US gets this engine as well, but it looks likely.
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2025 Toyota Highlander Specs
The 2025 Toyota Highlander with front-wheel drive is standard, with two types of all-wheel movement (AWD) available as an option. The simple AWD system available on the gas-powered L, LE, and XLE divides the available torque between the front and rear equally.
The XSE, Limited, and Platinum trims are upgraded with Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD which takes a more active role in determining which wheels need power and when.
Inside, the cabin remains solid with few changes to the setup. Woven fabric seats are standard while customers can find SoftTex and perforated leather trim as they move up the trim line.
The Limited and Platinum variants provide LED cabin lighting around the passengers.
On the tech front, the Highlander comes standard with dual 12.3-inch displays for the gauge cluster and infotainment displays on the Limited and Platinum trims. The gauge cluster comes with four different visual modes: Casual, Smart, Powerful, and Sporty.
Toyota has also changed the location of the wireless charging pad that comes with the XLE trim and up, shifting it from the center console box to the instrument panel rack, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
2025 Toyota Highlander Redesign
In addition to several vehicle models being introduced to the market that dominate such as small crossovers, full-size trucks, and large CUVs dominating the US market, mid-range drivers are in third place and may soon surpass subcompact CUVs and mid-size sedans.
It is not surprising that many of the several car manufacturers are also significantly involved in this industry. Models like the Ford Explorer, Volkswagen Atlas, Honda Pilot and Passport, Kia Telluride, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Sorento, Subaru Ascent, Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-90, Hyundai Palisade and Santa Fe, Buick Enclave, and Nissan Pathfinder all have several benefits in their efforts to persuade as many customers as possible.
But notice, how are we supposed to list just one Toyota model? It will be difficult to choose from their selection, as they provide four attractive options: Venza, 4Runner, Highlander, and Grand Highlander. The first is a new version of the Japanese-market XA80 Harrier, with just five seats but a bargain price – starting at $34,920 with hybrid power.
The second moniker is self-explanatory The durable 4Runner is Toyota’s classic-looking midsize off-road SUV, competing with the likes of the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. When it comes to Highlanders, the new 2024 Grand Highlander is the first to steal the show this year, with its longer wheelbase and extra space for up to eight passengers.
So, maybe it’s time for the smaller Highlander to take the initiative and try to become America’s greatest midsize crossover SUV.
However, digital car content developer Inventive Domain believes that Toyota needs some CGI cues. Therefore, the good folks at the Q Cars channel on YouTube are now hoping to amaze and amaze the public with the potential styling of their concept for the revised 2025 Toyota Highlander CUV.
Anyway, let’s focus on the image for a change; if the comments are too unpleasant, you can disable them, as we did when it was too difficult to try to figure out the reasons behind them. Like other unofficial projects, the pixel master nevertheless has two variants for the hypothetical 2025 Toyota Highlander: one is closer to the current model’s styling both at the front and rear, while the second has more significant design freedom, especially at the rear.
2025 Toyota Highlander Refresh
Designed by Calty Design Studios and produced exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing’s plant in Princeton, Indiana, the price and sales data for the 2024 All-New Grand Highlander will be announced later this summer.
Built on the TNGA-K platform, the Grand Highlander is an active family cruiser suitable for everything from short trips to long trips. It offers discreet storage areas throughout the cabin and ample cargo capacity with room for seven carry-on luggage behind the 3rd row. The total space is about 98 cubic feet with the seats folded down, and the third row is spacious adult-sized.
Whether you are the driver, passenger, or in the second or third row – the Grand Highlander is fully functional for the road ahead.
An update to the 2025 Highlander with an entertainment value SUV that features a larger and more versatile multimedia screen, and Highlander delivers.
In addition to the JBL® Premium Audio System with 11 speakers as standard from 2022, the Limited and Platinum classes now have two 12.3-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) screens as standard.
Equally important to users, content can now occupy the full 12.3-inch optically bonded screen that reduces glare.
The new, second 12.3” Full Digital Instrument Cluster display replaces the previous 7-inch TFT, now with four different visual modes for a personalized touch: Relax, Smart, Powerful, and Sporty modes.
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2025 Toyota Highlander Facelift
The Japanese manufacturer has been quite busy this year in its efforts to reclaim General Motors’ leadership in the US vehicle market. However, as half-time approached, things didn’t look any better.
GM remains unbeaten despite Toyota’s bombardment of new model debuts, including the 2023 Prius Prime plug-in hybrid, 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid, and superstars like the 2024 Grand Highlander, N400 Tacoma, and 2024 Land Cruiser.
However, currently, not all of them are on the market, so Toyota continues the tidal wave with models that can be implemented more efficiently, such as the large Corolla Nightshade family, GR special editions (GR86 Trueno, GR Corolla Circuit, GR Supra 45th Anniversary), including the MY RAV4 2024, and the hybrid-powered Tundra 1794 Limited Edition.
While the red carpet limelight has long been on the Grand Highlander’s larger sibling and its Lexus TX cousin, the mid-size Highlander (also known as the Kluger in various regions) hasn’t been overlooked. Instead, Toyota is giving the Highlander Hybrid some sneaky considerations as it joins the extended Nightshade family.
But now, some people are even more determined to achieve the Highlander title, even if only from the realm of imagination of digital automotive content providers. As a result, the AutoYa info channel on YouTube has created a CGI rendering of the facelift for the 2025 Toyota Highlander mid-size crossover SUV.
It’s true, the moniker has been around since 2000, with the fourth generation debuting at the New York International Auto Show in spring 2019. The car is built on the TNGA-K platform, which is a unibody version of the modular design aimed at cars of this size. intermediate. and full-size passenger cars and crossover vehicles, as well as the larger Grand Highlander and TX, so it would be easy to revitalize.
More specifically, the channel’s pixel master was (once again) called upon to demonstrate a prospective look at the updated 2025 Highlander. According to the host, possible changes include a new bumper design, a slightly revised front fascia with modified headlights, new taillights and a completely updated interior.
Luckily, (almost) everything is presented in the latest video feature posted below, which includes a glimpse of the new cabin’s amenities, signature luxury color choices, and a quick comparison of old versus new. What remains up for debate is the prospect of a powertrain upgrade.
Don’t worry, the rumors circulating have covered it too. To keep up with the trend, the 2025 Highlander is expected to borrow the Hybrid Max option from the 2024 Grand Highlander, which includes a 362 hp 2.4-liter turbo engine and two electric motors. Instead, Toyota is rumored to be removing the 3.5-liter V6 engine as a balance.
2025 Toyota Highlander Exterior
The mid-century modern-inspired SofTex ® seat with fabric inserts and bronze stitching looks like something out of a concept car, an effect amplified by the Captain’s Seat layout.
Lighted bronze door frames as well as unique flooring and cargo mats embroidered with a custom bronze stitching logo complete the designer look. Tech features only enhance the Bronze Edition – thanks to two 120V/1,500 watt interior outlets, a hands-free power liftgate, and rain-sensing wipers, to name a few.
The Highlander 2025 XSE exclusive styling applies to the front fascia, grille, lower spoiler, and headlights. The unique rocker panels add an edgy accent to the Highlander XSE’s sculptural line. The black roof rails, mirror caps, and window molding add to the subtle cool factor, topped off with twin exhaust tips.
2025 Toyota Highlander Interior
The 2025 Toyota Highlander models are equipped with the first and second rows of seating, which provide ample space, but the third row is one of the tightest in the midsize three-row SUV class.
We gave the Highlander high marks for outward visibility. The front roof pillars are thin, helping you see around corners. Some of the Highlander’s available tech features also help, like a camera-based rearview mirror that lets you see out the back even if you’ve fully loaded the cargo area.
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is also equipped with a surround-view camera system, which is sharp and can be rotated to view around the vehicle. Everything is easy to operate.
Tech
Toyota used to lag behind other technological manufacturers, but in 2025, Toyota Highlander has made a big step in the right direction. The optional 12.3-inch touchscreen is extensive (an 8-inch display is standard) and responds quickly to input, but sometimes, reflections on its surface make using it more difficult than it should be.
Toyota’s latest software also looks more modern. All 2025 Toyota Highlander models come standard with a full suite of advanced driver aids, which not all competitors offer.
We liked the adaptive cruise control, among other things, but we found the lane departure warning a bit too sensitive in standard mode and not sensitive enough in low mode.
Comfort
The 2025 Toyota Highlander’s ride quality is very comfortable. Thanks to the compliant suspension, road imperfections, large and small, are smoothed out, but it doesn’t feel floaty or vague at high speeds. The front seats are comfortable even on long trips, and the available second-row captain’s chairs provide nearly the same comfort level.
The 2025 Toyota Highlander with climate control is easy to use, and the standard three-zone system provides ample heating and cooling capacity. This helps offset heat and ventilates the seats quite effectively.
When driving on the highway, we bet you don’t really hear much noise. It’s very comfortable, with no vibrations, creaks, or annoying wind noise, even at high speeds. There is very minimal road noise.
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Storage
The 2025 Toyota Highlander has a capacity of 16 cubic feet behind the third row. Meanwhile, behind the second row, the space expands to a better-than-average 48.4 cubic feet. The lift height is average for a mid-size SUV, and both rear rows fold down for a flat loading surface.
Regarding cabin storage, there are large pockets, cup holders, and two shelves mounted on the dashboard for storing smartphone cables.
There is also a sizeable rear-facing car seat that will easily accommodate the second-row thanks to the generous amount of fore/aft movement of the available captain’s chairs, which is beneficial for children’s comfort.
2025 Toyota Highlander Engine
The 2025 Highlander is equipped with a four-cylinder engine that produces plenty of torque at low rpm, which helps make the Highlander comfortable to drive around town. Test results yielded our all-wheel-drive 2025 Highlander accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds, which is slightly quicker than most V6-equipped three-row midsize SUVs.
The 2025 Highlander’s ability to stop quickly and capably on winding roads is solid. Body roll is controlled when you turn, and the available torque vectoring AWD system also helps by applying engine power to each rear wheel to improve the SUV’s handling balance subtly.
All this advanced technology helps the Highlander feel more agile than the average mid-size SUV. Overall, the Highlander makes every day driving an effortless activity.
2025 Toyota Highlander MPG
The New 2025 Toyota Highlander with four cylinders is relatively fuel efficient. We tested an all-wheel-drive model, which the EPA estimates gets 24 mpg in city/highway driving.
A few mpg may not seem like a massive advantage over its competitors, but it’s significant for this vehicle class. For the record, the 2025 Highlander Hybrid gets an estimated 36 mpg in combined driving conditions.
2025 Toyota Highlander Models
The Toyota Highlander is a mid-sized three-row SUV with seating for up to eight passengers and is offered in five trim levels: LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. All are powered by a 265-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
For the 2025 Toyota Highlander, front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available on all trims as an option. There is also the Highlander Hybrid and Grand Highlander, which are reliable with special needs for large families with impressive MPG results.
2025 Toyota Highlander LE
| 18-inch alloy wheels |
| LED headlights |
| Height-adjustable power liftgate |
| Keyless entry and ignition |
| Power-adjustable driver's seat |
| Tri-zone automatic climate control |
| Folding 60/40-split seats in second and third rows |
| 8-inch infotainment touchscreen |
| Digital instrument panel display |
2025 Toyota Highlander XLE
| Roof rails |
| Sunroof |
| Hands-free liftgate |
| Wireless smartphone charging pad |
| Auto-dimming rearview mirror |
| Synthetic leather upholstery (SofTex) |
| Heated front seats |
| Power-adjustable passenger seat |
| Second-row captain's chairs (reduces seating capacity to seven) |
| Second-row sunshades |
2025 Toyota Highlander XSE
| 20-inch wheels |
| Unique sporty styling cues |
| Sport suspension |
| Interior ambient lighting |
2025 Toyota Highlander Limited
| Power-folding mirrors |
| Leather upholstery |
| Ventilated front seats |
| Driver's seat memory function |
| Heated steering wheel |
| Household power outlet |
| Bigger digital instrument panel |
| 12.3-inch center touchscreen |
| Intercom system that broadcasts the driver's voice through the speakers |
| 11-speaker JBL audio system |
| Front and rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking) |
2025 Toyota Highlander Platinum
| 20-inch alloy wheels |
| Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves) |
| Panoramic sunroof |
| Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line onto the windshield) |
| Digital rearview mirror (allows you to see out the back even with a fully loaded cargo area) |
| Heated second-row seats |
| Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the Highlander and its surroundings in tight parking situations) |
2025 Toyota Highlander Competitor
Although the new 2025 Highlander gets high marks for efficiency, it can’t compete with the dominant Kia Telluride and the similar Hyundai Palisade. Both types of cars are more fun to drive, offer more features at the price, and are more spacious and luxurious on the inside.
And with the introduction of the Grand Highlander last year, the standard Highlander could be a better mid-size three-row SUV in Toyota’s lineup. Of course, we can advise you to check all your needs and consider this type of SUV to be the right one for them.
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review
The New 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid’s smaller RAV4 Hybrid backs on one side and the larger Grand Highlander on the other. This fourth-generation Highlander Hybrid has been available since 2020. Meanwhile, the newest model, the 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, will indicate Toyota’s progress in producing electric cars. We expect the car to see a styling update to keep it in line with its newer brethren.
We have detailed 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid EPA estimates of up to 36 combined mpg. The 2025 Highlander Hybrid is currently one of the leaders in mileage among mid-sized three-row SUVs.
Compared to petrol-only models, you don’t have to pay a considerable premium to go with a hybrid, and the savings can be significant enough to cover the additional costs in the first year of ownership. Since both Highlanders provide a similar driving experience, it makes more sense to go with the hybrid.
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Interior
With the 2025 Toyota Highlander model equipped, The first and second rows of seating provide ample space. Unfortunately, the Highlander’s third row is among the most limiting by midsize three-row SUV standards. If you plan to use total passenger capacity regularly, ensure it meets your needs first.
The driver’s seat is quick and easy to adjust, and there is a wide range of adjustments. Tall drivers may want the steering wheel to stick out a little more.
Outward visibility, especially for a vehicle of this size, is excellent. The windshield roof pillars are thin, helping you see around corners or in tight parking situations.
The Platinum trim also comes with some very useful features, like a camera-based rearview mirror that lets you see out the back even if the rear cargo area is fully loaded. There’s also a surround-view camera system available. It has a sharp resolution and can be rotated to see around the vehicle.
Tech
In its latest 2025 model, the new Highlander Hybrid is taking a big step in the right direction, but it still has some minor flaws. An optional 12.3-inch touchscreen measuring a large 8-inch display is standard and responds quickly to input.
However, its highly glossy surface makes it susceptible to reflections and smudges. Our Highlander Hybrid Platinum tester had five USB charging ports for the first and second rows but none for the third.
All Highlanders come standard with a full suite of advanced driver aids. We liked the adaptive cruise control’s natural operation, but we found the lane departure warning a bit too sensitive and the lane centering ineffective at highway speeds.
Comfort
The Highlander Hybrid’s ride quality is luxurious. The car rides smoothly over most uneven roads but remains manageable without much wobble at high speeds. The wide front seats are comfortable even for long journeys, and the available second-row captain’s chairs provide nearly the same level of comfort.
Unfortunately, the third row of seats remains one of the Highlander’s most significant weaknesses. Thin cushions, very low seat cushions and limited legroom make this car unsuitable for most adults.
We liked the Highlander’s excellent climate control system. It is easy to use and can quickly heat or cool the cabin. Highlander is well insulated from wind and road noise at highway speeds.
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Storage
Cargo space is a mixed bag with the Highlander Hybrid. Behind the third row, there’s only 16 cubic feet of space, slightly less than the Ford Explorer provides. Behind the second row, space expands to a better-than-average 48.4 cubic feet. The liftover height is average for a mid-size SUV.
There’s decent space for your stuff, with functional shelves on the dashboard. If you have a phone charging on a wireless pad in the centre storage area, you must remove it to access the space underneath. We didn’t find it a hassle, but you might feel that way.
Have small children? Thanks to the generous fore-and-aft movement of the available captain’s chairs, you can easily install a sizeable rear-facing car seat in the second row. Car seat anchors are also easy to find and access for all seat types, although no anchors are in the third row.
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid MPG
Our 2025 Toyota Highlander predicts that the top trim with an all-wheel drive (AWD) model will get an EPA estimate of 35 MPG. Meanwhile, front-wheel drive (FWD) gets a slightly more efficient 36 MPG.
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Engine
The three-row Highlander has the same hybrid powertrain as the RAV4 Hybrid, although Toyota beefed it up slightly to handle the added weight. Our test Highlander accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds. That’s undoubtedly respectable, considering some SUVs with V6s take longer and are much more fuel-efficient. Emergency braking power is also equivalent.
When cornering, the hybrid is surprisingly composed. The Highlander Hybrid is more athletic than the hybrid version of the Ford Explorer, but handling isn’t usually a strong selling point for three-row SUVs.
More important is ease of driving; the 2025 Highlander Hybrid does that well. Power is readily available and delivered smoothly, and the brakes are smooth and don’t exhibit the grip found in some other hybrids.
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Competitor
Until last year, we recommended the Toyota Highlander Hybrid for buyers considering a fuel-efficient three-row SUV. With the introduction of the larger Grand Highlander Hybrid, we recommend buyers consider purchasing a larger car to get more passenger and cargo space.
Outside of these two Toyota twins, the Kia Sorento Hybrid offers a similar fuel economy of up to 37 mpg combined. Meanwhile, the Ford Explorer Hybrid cannot match the fuel efficiency of both.
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Models
The 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid will come in LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum trim levels as the top trim of this model. The New 2025 Toyota Highlander has Eight-passenger seating and a second-row bench, which is standard on the LE trim.
All trim levels get a second row of seats and accommodate seven passengers. A second-row bench seat remains an option for the XLE. All Highlander Hybrids have a four-cylinder engine and a hybrid system that combine to produce 243 horsepower.
Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional on all trims. Keep reading for our breakdown of the key features you get with each trim level.
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE
| 18-inch wheels |
| LED headlights and foglights |
| Keyless entry and ignition |
| Power liftgate |
| Three-zone climate control |
| Power-adjustable driver's seat |
| 8-inch touchscreen |
| Six-speaker audio system |
| Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration |
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE
| Sunroof |
| Roof rails |
| Hands-free liftgate |
| Synthetic leather upholstery |
| Heated front seats |
| Power-adjustable passenger's seat |
| Second-row captain's chairs |
| Second-row window sunshades |
| Wireless smartphone charging pad |
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE/XLE Nightshade Edition
| 18-inch black alloy wheels |
| Black grille, spoiler and exterior trim |
| Unique graphite-colored seats with silver accents (XLE) |
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited
| 20-inch wheels |
| Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking |
| Leather upholstery |
| Heated and ventilated front seats |
| Heated steering wheel |
| Interior ambient lighting |
| 12.3-inch touchscreen |
| Navigation system |
| 11-speaker JBL audio system |
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum
| Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves) |
| Panoramic sunroof |
| Digital rearview mirror (allows you to see what's behind the Highlander even with a fully loaded cargo area) |
| Heated second-row seats |
| Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield) |
| 360-degree camera system (gives you a top-down view of the Highlander and its surroundings for tight parking situations) |
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Review
In this case, Toyota introduced the Grand Highlander, a three-row SUV that measures 6.5 inches longer than the regular Highlander. Most of that extra length is used to make the third row roomier. Thus, the 2025 Grand Highlander is a better choice if you frequently use the third row, especially for taller teens or adult-sized passengers.
Of course, there are many things to like about the 2025 Toyota Highlander, starting from the efficient drive system and comfortable ride. However, the seats in the third row have drawn criticism because their small dimensions are only suitable for children and occasional use.
The presence of the Grand Highlander easily overcomes that problem with a much larger space. Adults will not only fit there, but they will also feel comfortable. Coupled with much greater cargo capacity, it’s clear that the Grand Highlander is a better choice for large families.
Key Feature
- Spacious passenger and cargo space
- Comfortable ride over bumpy and potholed roads
- A generous set of standard features
- Easy to see out
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Interior
The 2025 Grand Highlander provides ample space for the first and second rows of seating, and now the third row is finally fit, and dare we say comfortable, for adults.
It’s easy to find your desired driving position up front, but taller drivers may want greater reach from the telescopic steering wheel and thigh pad adjustment.
Like Highlander models, the Grand Highlander gives high marks for outward visibility. The front roof pillars are thin, helping you see corners. Some of the Grand Highlander’s available tech features also help, like a camera-based rearview mirror that lets you see behind you even if you’ve fully loaded the cargo area.
The surround-view camera system is sharp and can be swivelled to view the vehicle. A fantastic “see-through” feature utilises the camera to see signs of the ground you’ve driven over.
Tech
The 2025 Grand Highlander has an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the 8-inch screen is standard. The graphics look sharp, and the screen responds quickly to input, but sometimes, reflections on the surface make it more challenging to use than it should be. Some of the menus can also be confusing.
All Grand Highlanders come standard with the latest complete suite of advanced driver aids (Toyota Safety Sense 3.0), which not all competitors offer. All the functions, from adaptive cruise control to lane-keeping assist, are well-tuned and helpful in everyday driving.
Most importantly, Toyota’s voice recognition system is now one of the best. The system connects to the web, so you can ask for jokes, weather, and general questions like Google.
Comfort
The driving quality of the New 2025 Grand Highlander is very comfortable. Thanks to the compliant suspension, big and small curves are smoothed out, but it doesn’t feel like floating at high speeds. The front seats are comfortable even on long trips, and the standard second-row captain’s chairs provide nearly the same comfort level.
The significant advantage here is the much more comfortable third row compared to the standard Highlander. The cushions are a little thinner to help make folding more accessible, but the third row sits higher off the floor, making for much better legroom and a suitable position for adults.
The 2025 Grand Highlander also features easy-to-use climate control and slight aesthetic upgrades over the Highlander. The standard three-zone system provides ample heating and cooling capacity, which helps offset heat and light seat ventilation.
The Grand Highlander’s cabin could be better when blocking out road or ambient noise, but it’s alright, too. You don’t hear the sound of the four-cylinder engine when cruising, but any request for substantial acceleration will reveal a less-than-refined soundtrack.
Storage
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander has more cargo space than the regular Highlander. Behind the third row, there is now nearly five cubic feet of extra space, for a total of 20.6 cubic feet. That’s comparable to the Volkswagen Atlas and Kia Telluride.
Behind the second row, space expands to an even more impressive 57.9 cubic feet, maxing out at an incredible 97.5 cubic feet with all rows folded. You shouldn’t have trouble loading your luggage for a family road trip.
The Grand Highlander also makes laudable improvements regarding cabin storage for small items. There’s better storage in front of the gear selector, plus a larger cup holder. Underarm storage also feels more profound and more significant than the regular Highlander.
The second row gets beneficial door storage bins, a removable center storage area with space for a mobile phone, and some secure cup holders. The third row has two cup holders per side and cell phone storage space.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Engine
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is equipped with the Grand Highlander’s four-cylinder engine, which produces plenty of torque at low rpm and helps make the Grand Highlander pleasant to drive around town. However, the engine starts running out of power at highway speeds or when carrying a full load of passengers.
If you can afford it, the available Hybrid Max powertrain would likely be ideal. On track, our 2025 Grand Highlander with all-wheel drive (AWD) accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8 seconds, which is a bit slower than most V6-equipped three-row midsize SUVs.
Fortunately, the Grand Highlander’s ability to stop quickly and confidently and negotiate twisty roads is still impressive. The available torque vectoring AWD system, which helps by applying engine power to individual rear wheels, provides a subtle improvement to the Grand Highlander’s handling balance that also has the usual benefit of extra traction in slippery road conditions.
Overall, the Grand Highlander is easy to drive, which is the most essential quality here.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander MPG
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander four-cylinder is relatively fuel efficient. The all-wheel-drive Platinum trim model returns an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in city/highway driving, while front-wheel-drive models do slightly better at 24 mpg in combined driving conditions.
A few mpg may not seem like a massive advantage over its competitors, but it’s significant for this vehicle class.
On our real-world evaluation route, we got 24.4 mpg, which is encouraging and shows us that the EPA estimates should be achievable. In its most efficient form, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is estimated to return up to 36 mpg in combined driving conditions.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Competitor
It is clear that the competitors in this segment are the Kia Telluride, one of the top-rated three-row midsize SUVs. Its sibling, the Hyundai Palisade, is also hot on its heels. The Toyota Grand Highlander is shy of the top spot, which more power could offset.
The good news is that you can get it from the upgraded Max version of the Grand Highlander Hybrid. It costs slightly more than the standard Grand Highlander, but it’s a more intelligent choice because you also get much better fuel economy.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Models
Our consideration of the midrange 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Limited trim strikes a good balance between added features and price. This is especially true if you plan a more extended road trip. Ventilated and leather-trimmed seats, along with premium audio, should make driving distances feel much shorter.
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a mid-size, three-row SUV in three trim levels: XLE, Limited, and Platinum. Every trim has a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (265 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque) and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on the XLE and Limited trims, with all-wheel drive optional on those trims and standard on the Platinum.
Seating for seven is standard (with captain’s chairs in the second row). An eight-passenger configuration with a second-row bench is available at no additional cost on the XLE and Limited trims.
2025 Toyota Highlander Safety
The 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid will aim for top safety ratings. The NHTSA awarded the 2024 Highlander Hybrid a five-star overall safety rating, with four stars in the front crash test, five stars in the side impact test, and four stars in the rollover evaluation. The 2024 Highlander received IIHS’s 2023 Top Safety Pick+ rating, making it one of the safest SUVs on the market.
Toyota is expected to continue to offer a wide range of standard safety features, such as automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with steering assist, automatic high beams, full-speed adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
2025 Toyota Highlander Colors
The 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited and Platinum parts bring the convenience of a hands-free power liftgate. Added an elegant new Cypress exterior color, and Harvest Beige and Glazed Caramel interiors now feature Black as the accent color, replacing Noble Brown.
We anticipate that the Toyota Grand Highlander will come in seven colors:
- Blueprint (Dark Blue),
- Celestial Silver Metallic,
- Coastal Cream (Off-White),
- Midnight Black Metallic,
- Ruby Flare Pearl (Red),
- Storm Cloud (Gray), and
- Wind Chill Pearl (White)
Note: Ruby Flare Pearl and Wind Chill Pearl cost an additional $425.
2025 Toyota Highlander Price
We estimate the 2025 Toyota Highlander’s Price is still around $40,000. The 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid comes in at around $42,000, and the 2025 Toyota Highlander comes in at around $45,000.
2025 Toyota Highlander Release Date
For the release schedule, we predict that the 2025 Toyota Highlander will have its newest models in the fall of 2024. Meanwhile, the 2025 Grand Highlander will be released in the summer of 2024.
Verdict
SUV-class fans have highly coveted this car because the Toyota Highlander model received high marks for its fuel-efficient engine, quality with a luxurious driving concept, confident handling, and many standard driver assistance features. However, this car’s third row is less accommodating than other top competitors, so keep an eye on whether that’s its primary focus.
The Grand Highlander is larger than the regular Highlander but also gets several changes, making it one of our top recommendations for a mid-sized three-row SUV. This car has one of the most adult-friendly third rows and still gets high marks for fuel efficiency, comfort and technology. The Grand Highlander is quite majestic.
The New 2025 Highlander Hybrid effectively starts with the solid foundation of the regular Highlander and adds excellent fuel economy. It’s fast and agile and doesn’t lose any passenger or cargo space compared to a regular Highlander. Its third row of seats is small by midsize SUV standards, but that’s one of its few drawbacks.
Thank you for reading, we will soon update further information about the 2025 Toyota Highlander SUV, so make sure you bookmark the Toyota SUV Model website to get the latest complete information about the world of Toyota Automotive.
FAQs: People also ask about the Toyota Highlander 2025
Q: Is the Toyota Highlander changing in 2025?
A: For the 2025 model year, we believe there will be significant changes, with the possibility that Toyota will update the Highlander’s styling or add some new standard features.
Q: Is Highlander getting redesigned in 2024?
A: This fourth-generation family hauler has seen only minor changes since then. For 2024, Toyota discontinued the entry-level L trim and added a hands-free power liftgate for the mid-level trim.
Q: Is Toyota discontinuing the regular Highlander?
A: The big news is that the base model has been eliminated from the lineup, meaning the LE is now the entry-level version of this three-row Toyota SUV.
Q: How many miles per gallon does a 2025 Toyota Highlander hybrid get?
A: The top trim for the all-wheel-drive Highlander Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 35 mpg. The front-wheel-drive version is slightly more efficient at a combined 36 mpg. We observed 33 mpg from our test vehicle on our real-world evaluation route.
Video Discovery: Toyota Highlander 2025
Toyota Highlander Hybrid or Grand Highlander by car mate Motormouth about the Toyota Highlander Hybrid mid-size SUV. What’s New The Toyota Highlander XLE trim comes with a hands-free electric liftgate with kick sensor and the Nightshade Edition is now available on the Highlander hybrid.
