The sixth-generation Toyota Highlander polishes its reputation as a multitalented family hauler. Built for daily drives and road trips, the 2025 model showcases refreshed exterior accents, new alloy wheels, expanded color choices, and interior upgrades. Tech gets a boost with standard wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a larger touchscreen, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 available on all trims. Offered in petrol and hybrid versions, the Highlander balances power and economy alongside a spacious, flexible cabin. This three-row SUV remains ideal for parents, commuters, and anyone seeking a safe, comfortable, and dependable family ride.
What they’re saying
Good Comments
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“Fuel-efficient hybrid model, excellent reliability record, and a family-friendly cabin make the Highlander a perennial favorite.” — Car and Driver
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“Expanded safety features plus a larger infotainment screen further cement Toyota’s commitment to comfort and tech.” — AutoNation
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“Adaptable interior with genuine three-row seating and ample cargo space, making long trips a breeze.” — CarExpert
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“AWD versions handle slippery roads well and the turbo engine pulls strongly when loaded with passengers.” — Edmunds
Bad Comments
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“Third row is tight for large adults and cargo capacity behind the seats is merely average.” — Car and Driver
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“Interior plastics and dashboard trims could use a premium upgrade compared to direct rivals.” — What Car?
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“Handling isn’t very sporty, but it’s perfectly suited to relaxed family duties.” — AutoExpress
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“Higher trims get expensive, approaching luxury SUVs without matching their finishes.” — What Car?
Key Specifications Overview
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Powertrain: 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 petrol (265 hp, 310 lb-ft); 2.5L hybrid (243 hp combined)
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Transmission: 8-speed automatic (petrol); e-CVT (hybrid)
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Drivetrain: FWD or AWD on both engines
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Fuel Economy / Range: Petrol: 21–29 mpg (US EPA); Hybrid: 34–35 mpg (US EPA)
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Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 7.2s (petrol AWD); Hybrid ~7.3s
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Weight: 2,020–2,020 kg (4,450 lbs avg., varies by trim)
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Seating Capacity: 7 or 8 (depending on second-row bench/captain’s chairs)
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Cargo Capacity: 453 liters (16 cu.ft.) behind third row; up to 2,380 liters folded
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Safety Rating: Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 standard; 5-star Euro NCAP/ANCAP
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Price Range: £42,580–£57,000 UK; $39,520–$53,675 US; AU$54,240–$73,650 AUS; NZD 68,990–84,990 NZ; €49,900–62,900 EU
Key Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification / Notes |
|---|---|
| Engine / Powertrain | 2.4L turbo petrol; 2.5L hybrid |
| Power Output | 265 hp petrol / 243 hp hybrid |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft (petrol); N/A (hybrid combined) |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto (petrol); e-CVT (hybrid) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Fuel Economy / Range | 21–29 mpg (petrol); 34–35 mpg (hybrid, US EPA) |
| Acceleration (0-60) | 7.2s (petrol AWD); ~7.3s (hybrid) |
| Weight | ~4,450 lbs (2,020 kg) |
| Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 |
| Cargo Capacity | 453L up / 2,380L folded |
| Safety Rating | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0; 5-star NCAP/ANCAP |
Price Range Table
(Ordered: £UK, $USA, AUS, NZ, EU)
| Region / Country | Trim Levels Available | Price Range (Local Currency) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Icon, Design, Excel, Hybrid, Platinum | £42,580–£57,000 | Hybrid at upper trims |
| United States | LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum, Hybrid | $39,520–$53,675 | Hybrid and AWD at most levels |
| Australia | GX, GXL, Grande, Hybrid, Limited | AU$54,240–$73,650 | Hybrid popular at top trims |
| New Zealand | GXL, Limited, ZR Hybrid | NZD 68,990–84,990 | Hybrid AWD options |
| Europe (euros) | Active, Style, Hybrid, Platinum | €49,900–62,900 | Hybrid main seller regionally |
Performance and Driving Experience Overview
Turbo petrol models deliver responsive acceleration, confidence when passing, and a quiet highway ride; hybrids are slower off the line but offer excellent fuel economy and near-silent urban driving. Ride comfort is well-damped, tuning leans toward relaxed, everyday usability—rarely sporty but ideal for comfort. All Highlanders deliver stable, predictable handling, especially with AWD, but sharp cornering isn’t its forte. Multi-mode drive settings (Eco, Sport, Normal) help tailor feel.
Interior and Technology
The Highlander’s cabin maximizes utility: spacious first and second rows, decent third-row access (for kids or smaller adults), and a flexible cargo area. Newly standard features include a larger 8-inch or upgraded 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, multiple USB ports, Wi-Fi hotspot, and cloud-based navigation in upper trims. Available panoramic sunroof, premium JBL audio (certain trims),, leather seats, & tri-zone climate reinforce the upscale feel. Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 rolls out lane keep assist, adaptive cruise, collision warning, and more across the board.
Battery and Range Considerations
Hybrid Highlanders pair a 2.5L petrol engine with electric motors and a modest battery; no plug-in is offered. Combined efficiency peaks at 34–35 mpg (US EPA) for hybrid models, surpassing most competitors for family three-row SUVs. Petrol Highlanders return 21–29 mpg (EPA, varies by drive/trim). Both use regenerative braking and standard fueling.
At a Glance Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine / Powertrain | 2.4L turbo petrol or 2.5L hybrid |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto / e-CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Fuel Economy / Range | 21–35 mpg; hybrid top for class |
| Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 |
| Cargo Volume | 453L up / 2,380L folded |
| Safety | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0; 5-star rating |
| Infotainment | 8- or 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless CarPlay/AA |
| Price Range | £42,580–£57,000 UK; $39,520–$53,675 US |
Pros and Cons Overview
Highlander’s strengths: efficiency (hybrid), ample standard tech, safety, and reliable comfort. Its main drawbacks remain a tight third row and average cargo behind all seats, as well as only moderate luxury polish in lower trims. More expensive top versions compete with premium-branded models, raising buyer expectations on finishes.
Pros and Cons Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fuel-efficient hybrid options | Third row is tight for large adults |
| Ample safety and connectivity standard | Premium feel limited to top trims |
| Quiet, comfortable highway ride | Handling is safe but not sporty |
| Versatile seating and cargo flexibility | Cargo behind third row just average |
| Legendary Toyota reliability, resale value | High-spec trims approach luxury prices |
Overall Verdict
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is a smart, modern midsize SUV for families who want comfort, safety, and efficiency. Turbo petrol and hybrid options deliver brisk acceleration or segment-leading economy. While rival interiors or performance may edge it out for luxury or sport, few beat the Highlander’s balance of tech, space, ride quality, and price. For those prioritizing peace of mind, practicality, and everyday value, it remains a top pick in the segment.
Sources
Car and Driver
AutoNation Toyota
Edmunds
Toyota Official
CarExpert
What Car?
AutoExpress
