2025 Toyota Highlander Review

Turbo FWD/Avail AWD: LE, XLE

Turbo electronic AWD: XSE, Limited, Platinum 

Hybrid eAWD: XLE, Nightshade, Limited, Platinum

Hybrid eAWD: 25th Anniversary Special Edition

The 2025 Highlander lineup provides real variety with five Hybrid grades and five 2.4-Liter turbo-powered gas grades.  Turbo-four models generate a healthy 265 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft of torque. A stop-and-start engine system helps the busy family driver save gas at every redlight and fast-food drive-through. 

The Highlander XSE turbo has been tuned for adventurous driving. The specially tuned suspension is enhanced by low-friction shock absorbers and high-rate springs. Other XSE standards include a rear stabilizer bar and specially tuned electric power steering.

With 243 horsepower and speedy electric-assisted torque, the 2025 Highlander Hybrid powertrain easily competes with the turbo.  Fuel economy is 35 mpg combined, and driving range is potentially 598 miles. 

Adding to its efficiency, regenerative braking captures energy during deceleration, converting it into electricity to recharge the hybrid battery. This innovative technology further enhances the Highlander Hybrid's overall efficiency.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander offers a spacious and comfortable interior for the whole family. With versatile seating configurations, thoughtful amenities, and a focus on passenger well-being, the Highlander makes every journey a pleasure. 

Family-Sized Layout:  Highlander LE 8-person seating includes a second-row bench. The second-tier XLE seats 7 with captain’s chairs, although the 8-person layout is available. As the entry level hybrid, Hybrid XLE models seat 8 with the 7-person layout available. Nightshade, Limited, 25th Special Edition, and Platinum trim levels have 7-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs.

Family Conveniences: Five USB Type-C and Type-A ports are strategically placed throughout the cabin. With the available Wi-Fi hotspot, the whole family can make full use of their smart devices. A wireless charger is standard on many trims, and Toyota Easy Speak is available to make it easy for the driver to talk to the kids on the back row.

First Row Comforts: The Highlander LE and Hybrid XLE cabins provide an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s chair. Gas-powered XLE and XSE models upgrade you to a 10-way power chair. Highlander Limited, 25th Anniversary Editions, and Platinum models have dual heated power chairs with power-ventilation for our hottest summer days. 

Second-Row Comforts: With sliding and reclining functionality for added flexibility, the bench seat offers ample space for three passengers. On the other hand, dual second row captain's chairs provide individual comfort and easier access to the third row.  Highlander Platinum trims add power-heat functions to these seats. The XLT, and higher trims help shelter little ones from the sun with second row sunshades.

Third-Row Comforts: The Highlander's third row is designed to accommodate passengers comfortably, and the second row offers easy entry.  Reclining seats and sliding headrests make it easier for kids to find a comfortable perch.

Ride Quality: Extensive noise insulation, a smart suspension system, and automatic climate controls are universal, keeping the cabin quiet and comfortable. Even the hybrid system minimizes noise, intelligently managing engine speed and electric motor assistance for a truly refined ride.

This year shoppers have five distinctive styling choices: the sporty XSE, the blacked-out accents of the Nightshade, the gorgeous 25th Anniversary Edition, the refined Limited, and the luxury Platinum. Each one vies for the most stylish Highlander trim this year.

Available in Cement, Wind Chill Pearl, Midnight Black Metallic, or Ruby Flare Pearl, the Nightshade edition makes a bold statement wherever it goes. Other available exterior colors include Blueprint, Cypress, Magnetic Gray Metallic, and Celestial Silver Metallic.

Known for its dramatic blacked-out accents, Hybrid Nightshade exterior features include black-painted 18-inch wheels, black grille trim, black mirror caps, and black door handles. The blacked-out theme extends to the rear badging, spoiler, shark fin antenna, and roof rails.

Loaded with adventurous personality, the Highlander XSE embraces a sporty aesthetic with a unique front fascia, specially trimmed grille, and lower spoiler. Unique rocker panels accentuate the sculpted lines, while black roof rails, black mirror caps, and black window moldings add a touch of aggression. This Highlander trim completes its athletic profile with all-black 20-inch wheels and twin exhaust tips.

With premium details and a luxury look, the Highlander Limited and Platinum trims offer 20-inch wheels, power-folding heated mirrors, and puddle lamps with the Highlander logo. The grille features black paint with a chrome-plated surround, adding a touch of elegance.

The 2025 Highlander 25th Anniversary Edition marks a milestone with a unique combination of exterior features. Side rockers, 20-inch wheels, and bumpers with silver accents create a distinctive look. Shoppers choose from two exterior colors: Heavy Metal and the lustrous Wind Chill Pearl.

Echoing its exterior, the Highlander Hybrid Nightshade injects a dose of mystery into the cabin. Black seats wear Softex upholstery with embossed fabric inserts and silver accent stitching.

With the 2025 Highlander XSE trim level, black SofTex-trimmed seats with fabric inserts and ambient lighting set the stage, while carbon-fiber accents on the instrument panel add a touch of modern sportiness. An available two-tone red and black leather-trimmed interior with red stitching transforms the 2025 XSE into a true driver's haven.

Limited and Platinum trims create an oasis of tranquility worthy of a luxury SUV. Plush leather-trimmed seats and wood trim accents bring classic elegance to the cabin. The Platinum grade further enhances style with a panoramic glass moonroof.

Building on the Limited trim level, the Highlander 25th Editions embody the best of the lineup, elevating style and sophistication. This special edition has a unique interior color scheme centered around lush leather seating in a trim-specific Portobello color. Seats are accented by 25th Edition logos on the headrests. Illuminated door sills add to the ambient lighting.

With front-wheel drive, the Highlander turbo is at its most fuel efficient. From that standpoint, shoppers may not want to step up to an all-wheel drivetrain. However, if you do want AWD, Toyota provides some excellent choices.

Keeping a sharp eye on prices, the Highlander LE and XLE turbos can be paired with mechanical AWD for a 50/50 torque split on slippery surfaces. When needed for steep inclines, downhill assist control can reduce speed safely with less stress on the transmission.

With XSE, Limited, and Platinum turbo trim levels, Toyota upgrades to Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD. This system can achieve the best torque distribution for the axles and for the individual left or right rear wheels. Rear Driveline Disconnect reverts to front-wheel drive to maximize fuel economy.

Dynamic Torque Vectoring coordinates electric power steering, transmission shifting, throttle control. Multi-Terrain Select provides a control dial that gives drivers easy access to a Mud & Sand mode or Rock & Dirt mode, depending on the condition of an off-road trail.

All 2025 Highlander Hybrids come with Electronic On-Demand AWD. This capability is enhanced by electric motors to power the rear wheels as needed for traction. Electronic systems reduce the need for mechanical parts, keeping the weight down.

With generous cargo space and impressive towing capabilities, the Highlander is the perfect companion for family adventures, weekend getaways, and everyday errands. Behind the third row, you'll find 16.0 cubic feet of space, enough for your grocery bags, the family’s suitcases, or a big box store purchase. The area is designed for maximum usability, with thoughtfully shaped side surfaces and convenient pockets to keep your belongings organized.

Folding split-seats allow for various configurations, adapting to your specific passenger and cargo needs. A power liftgate comes standard on all Highlander models, making loading and unloading a breeze. The refined Highlander Platinum trim level has an all-weather rear cargo liner, and it adds hands-free capability to the power liftgate.

With the third row folded, there’s 48.4 cu ft of available space. This can accommodate larger items like double strollers, sports equipment, or even a small piece of furniture.

With second and third rows folded flat, the Highlander offers a cavernous 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space. This large space is perfect for hauling bulky items or maximizing space on a road trip.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander is ready for anything you throw its way – or tow behind it. This model year, Highlander Hybrid models can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the gas-powered models boast a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

All-wheel-drive gas models are equipped with Trailer Sway Control to improve stability and control when towing. Whether you're towing a camper, a boat, or a trailer, the Highlander is up to the task. With roof rack options and accessories, you can further expand your carrying capabilities, hauling up to 220 pounds safely on the roof.

When shopping for a 3-row SUV, please discuss towing capacity with your Earnhardt Toyota dealership Phoenix AZ to match the right model to your specific needs.

2025 Highlander prices start at $39,520 MSRP, excluding dealer processing and handling fees. Keep scrolling to discover what’s in the inventory in our Phoenix Toyota dealership.

The heart of the Highlander's technological prowess is the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. Standard on the LE and Hybrid XLE is an 8-inch touchscreen with six speakers, while higher trims boast a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen.

This intuitive system offers a range of features, including over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring you always have the latest software. Dual Bluetooth phone connectivity allows for seamless hands-free communication, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility integrate your smartphone effortlessly.

The XSE, Limited, and Platinum trims feature a 12.3-inch Digital Gauge Cluster, providing a customizable and informative display. The Platinum trim further enhances the driver's experience with a 10-inch color Head-Up Display, projecting vital information onto the windshield.

If available, Connected Service Drive Connect can be a driver’s best ally. A simple "Hey Toyota" allows you to control navigation, audio, climate, and more without taking your hands off the wheel. Cloud Navigation offers real-time traffic updates and the most up-to-date maps. Destination Assist offers 24/7 live agent assistance to help you find your way.

For an immersive audio experience, the Highlander offers an available JBL Premium Audio system. Boasting 1,200 watts of power, 11 speakers, and Clari-Fi technology, this system delivers concert-quality sound, bringing your favorite music to life.

Remote Connect allows you to control various vehicle functions from your smartphone, including remote start, lock/unlock, and vehicle location. Push-button start and a Smart Key system offer keyless entry and ignition for added convenience.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander has a 5-star NHTSA rating.  While the new model doesn’t have an IIHS rating yet, the similarly equipped 2024 Highlander is a Top Safety Pick.

Packed with tools to make driving safer, important systems watch the front and sides, working to keep the Highlander out of crash situations. Taking a step beyond warnings, interventions include a forward autobrake and a lane steering assist. Electronic braking assistance is always available to help you stop faster. 

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection 
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist 
• Blind Spot Warning
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert 
• Smart Stop Technology
• Hill Start Assist

Highlander Platinum drivers benefit from an Adaptive Front-Lighting System, a Head Up Display, and rain-sensing wipers. A digital rearview mirror is a live-feed camera system that eliminates the blind spot with the touch of a button.

The Highlander offers a suite of Connected Services to enhance your ownership experience. Safety Connect provides emergency assistance, automatic collision notification, and a stolen vehicle locator. An in-car Wi-Fi subscription is needed for these important services.

Toyota believes in providing more than just a vehicle; a Highlander lease or loan offers peace of mind and lasting value. From comprehensive warranties to complimentary maintenance, Toyota goes the extra mile to ensure your ownership experience is as rewarding as the drive itself.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid comes with an exceptional warranty that underscores Toyota's confidence in its hybrid technology. Hybrid-related components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. The hybrid battery itself has an even longer warranty period of 10 years or 150,000 miles, providing assurance and protection against unexpected repair costs. 

ToyotaCare includes essential services like oil changes, tire rotations, and multi-point inspections. Ensuring your Highlander receives proper care from Toyota-trained technicians, this complimentary maintenance plan covers normal factory-scheduled service for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. 

Complimentary Roadside Assistance lasts for two years (unlimited mileage) with your Highlander lease or loan. You'll have access to 24/7 assistance in case of unexpected events. Whether you need a tow, a jump start, a tire change, or lockout service, help is just a phone call away.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ also helps Highlander drivers by providing tools that help make life less stressful. Whether commuting to work or traveling across the country, the driver can rely on this 3-row SUV to take some of the responsibility for mundane tasks. 

• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control 
• Lane Tracing Assistance
• Road Sign Assistance
• High Beam Auto-Control

Parking assistance starts with the rear cross-traffic alert and the rearview camera. Even better, the available Panoramic View Monitor has a perimeter scan function. Plus automatic braking can strengthen the usefulness of front and rear distance warnings.  

The Highlander is the ideal vehicle for families on the go. Pack up for a weekend camping trip, haul sports equipment to the game, or load up for a cross-country road trip – the Highlander can handle it all, while still entertaining your family and reducing the chance of crash scenarios.

Ready for hands-on research? Schedule a test drive to learn more at Earnhardt Toyota in Mesa.