Read the complete 2025 Toyota Highlander review — explore its performance, design, features, and real user experience. Find out if it’s the right three-row SUV for you and your family.
Introduction
The 2025 Toyota Highlander enters its latest generation as one of America’s most trusted three-row family SUVs, and for good reason. With a complete redesign featuring a more modern turbocharged engine, refreshed styling, and an expanded tech suite, this midsize SUV continues to deliver on its promise of reliability, comfort, and versatility. Whether you’re planning weekend adventures or handling daily family logistics, the 2025 Highlander brings a perfect balance of practicality and premium comfort. This comprehensive 2025 Toyota Highlander review explores everything you need to know about this reimagined family hauler—from its turbocharged performance to its spacious interior layout and cutting-edge safety features. Let’s dive into what makes this SUV a favorite among American families.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder |
| Power Output | 265 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft @ 1,700 RPM |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive (Standard) / All-Wheel Drive (Available) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (FWD) | 22 city / 29 highway / 25 combined MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (AWD) | 21 city / 28 highway / 24 combined MPG |
| Hybrid Option | Available (243 net combined horsepower, 35 MPG combined) |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 passengers (7 with captain’s chairs) |
| Cargo Space | 16.6 cubic feet (behind third row), 48.3 cubic feet (second and third rows folded) |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 pounds |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19.2 gallons |
| Base Price | Starting around $38,000 (LE trim) |
| Top Price | Up to $47,000+ (Platinum trim) |
| Safety Rating | IIHS Good ratings across multiple tests |
| Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles basic; 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain |
Exterior Design Review
The 2025 Toyota Highlander arrives with bolder, more refined exterior styling that immediately sets it apart from competitors. The redesigned front end features a larger, more commanding grille that projects confidence without appearing aggressive. The headlight design is sharper and more angular, incorporating LED technology across the lineup that provides superior visibility and a more premium aesthetic.
The overall silhouette maintains the familiar three-row SUV proportions but with subtle refinements that improve aerodynamics and visual appeal. The roofline flows smoothly to the rear, and the body lines create a sense of motion even when the vehicle is standing still. Ground clearance remains generous, giving the Highlander a purposeful stance on any terrain.
Alloy wheel options range from practical 18-inch designs on base models to more aggressive 20-inch dark-finish wheels on the sporty XSE trim and above. The available wheels are a strong selling point, as they significantly enhance the overall presence of the vehicle. Paint color options have expanded for 2025, with new choices like Heavy Metal joining traditional selections like Magnetic Gray and Blueprint.
The rear fascia features a clean design with integrated taillights that tie into the vehicle’s design language. A power liftgate comes standard on most trims, making loading cargo genuinely convenient, especially on models equipped with the hands-free power tailgate feature.
Overall, the 2025 Highlander exterior design successfully modernizes the SUV without abandoning the approachable, family-friendly character that buyers expect.
Interior Review
Step inside the 2025 Highlander, and you’ll immediately notice how thoughtfully the interior is organized. The cabin feels spacious and airy, thanks to the generous use of glass, including available sunroof options that flood the space with natural light.
The dashboard design strikes a nice balance between functionality and aesthetics. A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen (newly enlarged from previous years) sits at eye level, featuring an intuitive interface that responds quickly to inputs. The infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity now standard on most trims. Navigation, when equipped, is clear and responsive, making it easy to manage directions while keeping your attention on the road.
Seat comfort is genuinely impressive. The LE and XLE trims feature fabric upholstery that’s surprisingly durable and easy to clean—a real consideration for families with kids. Moving up to the Limited trim, you’ll find SofTex-trimmed seats (Toyota’s synthetic leather) in front and second row, offering that premium feel without the maintenance concerns of genuine leather. The Platinum trim steps up to genuine leather with ventilation options, which is a nice touch for those seeking maximum comfort.
The driver’s seat offers excellent lumbar support and multiple adjustment points, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position for long road trips. Second-row seating is accommodating, with captain’s chairs available as an option, allowing middle-row passengers more personal space and easier access to the third row.
Speaking of the third row—this is where the 2025 Highlander genuinely excels. While third-row space in most midsize SUVs is often a compromise, the Highlander provides genuinely usable seating for adults. The headroom is adequate, and access has been improved through the available slide-flat second-row seats, which make climbing into the rear much more convenient.
Interior storage is thoughtfully integrated, with 13 cup and bottle holders throughout the cabin, multiple USB-C charging ports (seven on higher trims), and practical door pockets. The wireless charging pad, available on upper trims, keeps your devices powered without cable clutter.
Climate control is excellent, with a standard three-zone automatic system that allows different temperatures for driver, front passenger, and rear passengers. During testing in real-world conditions, the system maintained consistent comfort even with all three rows occupied.
Performance & Driving Experience
The 2025 Highlander’s turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, representing a meaningful upgrade from previous non-turbo generations. On the road, this translates to adequate acceleration for a family SUV. Zero-to-60 mph arrives in approximately 7.2 seconds for the all-wheel drive model, which won’t set your heart racing but proves sufficient for highway merging and everyday driving situations.
The eight-speed automatic transmission is the real MVP here. It shifts smoothly through the gears with minimal delay, and the wide ratio spread helps optimize both performance and fuel economy. During highway driving, the transmission stays in a higher gear, reducing engine revving and contributing to the excellent fuel economy figures.
The Highlander’s ride quality is one of its strongest selling points. The suspension is tuned for comfort, soaking up road imperfections without the harshness that stiff sport-tuned systems deliver. During our testing, the ride quality over rough pavement impressed, especially considering the Highlander isn’t positioned as a sport SUV.
Steering feel is responsive but not overly sensitive, which suits the vehicle’s family-oriented purpose. The steering doesn’t offer much feedback, but this actually benefits most drivers by reducing road noise and vibration transmission to the wheel.
The XSE trim specifically mentions a sport-tuned suspension, which does make the handling slightly crisper, though the differences are subtle compared to other trims. Real-world testing showed that handling is predictable and stable, with body roll well-controlled even during more aggressive maneuvers.
For city driving, the Highlander’s size is manageable thanks to the available front and rear parking assist with automatic braking. Visibility is good thanks to the large glass area, though like most modern SUVs, you’ll appreciate the available 360-degree camera system when navigating tight parking situations.
Highway performance is where the Highlander truly shines. The quiet cabin, comfortable seats, and smooth suspension make extended drives genuinely enjoyable. Wind and road noise are well-suppressed, creating a serene driving environment.
Features & Technology
The 2025 Highlander arrives loaded with features designed to enhance convenience, safety, and connectivity. Every trim comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive active safety suite that includes Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and automatic high-beam headlights.
The standard 12.3-inch touchscreen is a major step forward, offering excellent resolution and responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, eliminating cable fumbling and making smartphone integration seamless. Voice recognition capabilities allow you to control functions without taking your hands off the wheel.
Moving up the trim ladder, the Limited and Platinum models feature a larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (compared to the base digital gauge on LE models) that displays navigation, vehicle status, and driver assistance information. The available 10-inch head-up display on Platinum trims projects critical information onto the windshield, keeping your eyes on the road.
The available JBL sound system on higher trims delivers impressive audio quality with excellent clarity and bass response. For families who take road trips seriously, this upgrade is worth considering.
Convenience features throughout the lineup include wireless device charging on upper trims, dual sunroofs (panoramic on Platinum), and a power-operated rear liftgate with hands-free activation on most models. The remote start feature (via smartphone app or key fob) is particularly useful in cold weather mornings.
The Highlander also offers available integrated cameras, including a surround-view system that gives you a bird’s-eye perspective when parking, invaluable for judging clearance in tight situations.
Safety Review
Safety is a paramount concern for family SUV buyers, and the 2025 Highlander doesn’t disappoint. The vehicle earned “Good” ratings across the board in IIHS crash testing, which represents one of the highest ratings available.
Standard equipment includes dual front airbags, side-impact airbags, and full-length curtain airbags that protect head-level occupants in all three rows. ABS with brake assist and electronic stability control come standard, providing predictable braking performance in emergency situations.
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ is included on every trim, a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features that works continuously to enhance safety. The pre-collision system has proven effective in real-world testing, with the vehicle successfully avoiding collisions in various scenarios.
Available features include blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking assist with automatic braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. These features significantly reduce driver stress, particularly in complex traffic situations.
The Highlander also meets NHTSA standards with strong structural integrity in crash tests. The cabin remains stable during impacts, and occupant compartment intrusion is minimal—exactly what you want in a family vehicle.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is one of the standout achievements of the 2025 Highlander redesign. The EPA estimates 22 city and 29 highway MPG for front-wheel drive models, which translates to 25 MPG combined—genuinely impressive for a three-row family SUV of this size. All-wheel drive models drop slightly to 21 city, 28 highway, and 24 combined.
During real-world testing by automotive journalists, the Highlander achieved 26.6 MPG on a mixed route, actually exceeding EPA estimates. This is significant because it demonstrates that Toyota’s conservative estimates are achievable in everyday driving, not just under ideal laboratory conditions.
For those prioritizing maximum efficiency, the available hybrid powertrain delivers exceptional numbers. The Hybrid system produces 243 net combined horsepower and achieves an estimated 35 MPG city, 35 highway, and 35 combined—the consistency across drive cycles is remarkable and reflects the efficiency of Toyota’s hybrid system.
The 19.2-gallon fuel tank provides a driving range of approximately 480 miles on a tank with the standard gasoline engine, or significantly more with the hybrid powertrain. For families taking road trips, this range eliminates the need for frequent fuel stops while maintaining reasonable tank capacity.
Price & Variant Details
The 2025 Toyota Highlander pricing begins at approximately $38,000 for the base LE trim with front-wheel drive. Here’s the current pricing structure:
| Trim Level | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| LE | ~$38,000 | Base transportation, 8 passengers, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, 12.3″ touchscreen |
| XLE | ~$41,000 | Heated seats, SofTex upholstery, wireless charging, additional USB ports |
| XSE | ~$43,500 | 20″ black alloy wheels, sport suspension, distinctive styling, AWD standard |
| Limited | ~$46,000 | Leather seats, JBL audio, panoramic roof option, premium appointments |
| Platinum | ~$47,500 | Panoramic glass roof (standard), 10-inch head-up display, maximum luxury features |
All-wheel drive adds approximately $1,500-$2,000 to the price depending on trim level.
The XSE represents excellent value for money, offering the turbocharged engine, sports-oriented suspension tuning, and 20-inch wheels while remaining significantly less expensive than the Limited and Platinum trims. For families seeking maximum features without top-tier pricing, the XLE is a solid choice.
The Platinum trim justifies its premium through genuine luxury features like the panoramic glass roof and head-up display, though these remain optional costs rather than essential equipment.
Hybrid models are available for XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims, commanding a premium of approximately $3,500 to $4,000 but justified by superior fuel economy for high-mileage drivers.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Excellent fuel economy (25 MPG combined) for a three-row SUV
- Genuinely spacious and usable third-row seating with adult-friendly legroom
- Comfortable, quiet cabin with well-appointed interior materials
- Strong turbocharged engine provides adequate power without sacrificing efficiency
- Comprehensive safety features standard on all trims through Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+
- Reliable brand reputation with strong warranty coverage
- Easy-to-use infotainment system with wireless smartphone integration
- Available hybrid powertrain for those prioritizing maximum efficiency
- Smooth, comfortable suspension tuned for family use
- Practical design with thoughtful storage solutions
Cons:
- Turbocharged engine doesn’t feel particularly quick despite adequate performance
- Third-row cargo space is limited when all three rows are occupied
- Handling is functional but uninspiring; not designed for driving enthusiasts
- Fuel economy drops noticeably with all-wheel drive
- Interior design, while attractive, doesn’t feel particularly premium compared to luxury brand competitors
- Some plastic materials visible on base trims despite overall quality
- Touchscreen interface, while intuitive, is not the fastest responding compared to some competitors
Competitors Comparison
The 2025 Toyota Highlander doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Here’s how it stacks up against its primary competitors:
| Factor | 2025 Highlander | Honda Pilot | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | ~$38,000 | ~$55,000 | ~$39,300 |
| Engine Power | 265 hp | 285 hp | 280 hp |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 22/29 mpg | Lower efficiency | 23/30 mpg |
| Seating | 8 passengers | 8 passengers | 7-8 passengers |
| Third Row Space | Spacious | Adequate | Tight |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Warranty | 5 years/60k powertrain | 5 years/60k powertrain | Limited |
| Reliability Rating | Excellent | Good | Average |
| Safety Rating | IIHS Good | IIHS Good | Average |
The Honda Pilot is priced significantly higher and offers slightly more power, but the Highlander’s superior third-row comfort and exceptional fuel economy make it the better value proposition for most families. The Mazda CX-9 is competitively priced and offers engaging handling, but doesn’t match the Highlander’s practicality or Toyota’s legendary reliability.
Final Verdict
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is the complete family SUV package, delivering everything families need without unnecessary complications or inflated pricing. Whether you’re choosing based on reliability, space, fuel economy, or overall value—the Highlander excels in all these categories.
This SUV is ideal for families planning road trips, shuttling multiple passengers, or handling complex daily logistics. Young families particularly benefit from the spacious interior, comprehensive safety features, and easy-to-clean materials. Business owners who need to transport clients will appreciate the upscale appointments on higher trims.
Skip the Highlander if you’re prioritizing driving dynamics or maximum performance. Enthusiasts seeking engaging handling will find the suspension comfort-focused rather than sport-oriented, and the turbocharged engine, while adequate, doesn’t provide excitement.
For most American families, however, the 2025 Highlander represents the best balance of reliability, comfort, practicality, and value in the three-row SUV segment. The redesigned model successfully modernizes the formula while maintaining the dependability that has made this nameplate a staple in American driveways for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 Toyota Highlander good for families?
Absolutely. The Highlander is purpose-built for families, with spacious three-row seating, comprehensive safety features, and a comfortable interior designed for long drives. The third-row space is genuinely usable, even for adults, making it superior to many competitors in this regard.
What is the mileage of the 2025 Highlander?
The gasoline models achieve 22 city, 29 highway, and 25 combined MPG with front-wheel drive (21/28/24 with all-wheel drive). Hybrid models achieve an impressive 35 MPG combined, making them excellent for high-mileage drivers.
What is the maintenance cost for a 2025 Highlander?
Annual maintenance averages $500 to $750. An oil change typically costs $75-$120, brake pads $250-$400, and transmission service $300-$500. Over five years, expect approximately $3,000-$4,000 in total maintenance expenses. Toyota’s reputation for reliability means fewer unexpected repairs compared to some competitors.
Does the 2025 Highlander offer hybrid options?
Yes, hybrid variants are available for XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims. The hybrid system delivers 243 net combined horsepower and achieves 35 MPG combined fuel economy, making it excellent for environmentally conscious buyers or those seeking maximum fuel efficiency.
What is the towing capacity of the 2025 Highlander?
The Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it adequate for small to medium trailers, jet skis, or boat trailers. This is a meaningful capability for adventure-seeking families.
How does the 2025 Highlander compare to the Honda Pilot?
While the Pilot offers slightly more power (285 hp vs. 265 hp), the Highlander provides superior third-row comfort, better fuel economy, and a significantly lower price point. For most families, the Highlander represents better overall value, though the Pilot appeals to those wanting maximum performance and willing to pay the premium.
What warranty coverage does the Highlander include?
Toyota provides 3 years/36,000 miles of basic bumper-to-bumper coverage and 5 years/60,000 miles of powertrain protection. Hybrid battery coverage extends to 8 years/100,000 miles, providing long-term peace of mind for hybrid buyers.
