2025 Toyota Grand Highlander, Toyota Grand Highlander review, Toyota Grand Highlander pricing, Toyota Grand Highlander specifications, Toyota Grand Highlander interior, Toyota Grand Highlander performance, Toyota Grand Highlander safety features
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander stands as a formidable competitor in the midsize SUV segment, offering a balance of luxury, performance, and practicality. It builds on the legacy of the Toyota Highlander but provides an extra dose of sophistication and features tailored for modern families.
Whether you’re looking for a spacious family hauler or a well-rounded daily driver, the Grand Highlander aims to meet all expectations. In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into the design, performance, features, safety, pricing, and more, providing you with a complete picture of what this SUV has to offer.
Overview of the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is a bold step forward for the Highlander nameplate. Sitting comfortably between the standard Toyota Highlander and the larger Sequoia, the Grand Highlander offers an excellent mix of interior space, cutting-edge technology, and rugged capability. This new iteration seeks to cater to those who need more room than the standard Highlander offers, without jumping all the way to the full-size SUV category.
Positioned within Toyota’s SUV lineup, the Grand Highlander is designed to serve the needs of families who prioritize comfort, technology, and performance, all while maintaining a practical approach to fuel efficiency and safety.
Positioning within Toyota’s SUV Lineup
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is positioned nicely between the compact Toyota Venza and the larger full-size Sequoia, which means it serves as a mid-sized SUV. This model offers a great deal of interior space, allowing for comfortable seating and plenty of cargo room. It also comes with improved features and a range of performance options that cater to different driving preferences.
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander builds on the established reputation of the Highlander, which is known for providing a comfortable and reliable driving experience. This new SUV competes head-to-head with other popular mid-sized SUV options on the market, including vehicles like the Honda Passport, Ford Edge, and Hyundai Palisade.
As Toyota seeks to push boundaries and innovate further, the Grand Highlander effectively addresses the increasing demand for larger vehicles that are equipped with modern amenities. It boasts hybrid capabilities, which are becoming more sought after by consumers looking for environmentally friendly options. By combining a smooth driving experience with exceptional reliability and safety features, the Grand Highlander aims to deliver an all-around satisfying experience for drivers and passengers alike.
This vehicle is designed not only to meet the expectations of today’s market but also to provide a sense of comfort and security for all who travel inside it.
Design and Dimensions
Exterior Styling and Design Elements
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander’s exterior exudes sophistication, with bold lines and refined accents. Toyota’s latest design language is evident in the SUV’s front grille, which is larger than the standard Highlander, offering a more commanding presence. The angular headlights and LED daytime running lights give the Grand Highlander a modern, aggressive stance, while the aerodynamic design ensures optimal fuel efficiency.
From a dimension perspective, the Grand Highlander is both longer and wider than the regular Highlander. This provides more space inside while ensuring the SUV doesn’t feel overly large when on the road. The extended rear end offers a spacious cargo area, while the wide stance enhances stability and handling. Overall, the exterior styling is a blend of ruggedness and refinement, making it suitable for both urban and off-road adventures.
Interior Layout, Materials, and Build Quality
Inside, the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander showcases a premium feel with high-quality materials and a clean, uncluttered design. The cabin is built with both aesthetics and practicality in mind, featuring soft-touch materials, chrome accents, and a well-organized dashboard.
The Grand Highlander offers three rows of seating with ample space for seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The seats are designed for comfort, with available leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated options. Soft ambient lighting, a spacious center console, and a panoramic sunroof further enhance the interior’s luxurious feel.
Comparison with the Standard Highlander in Terms of Size and Space
Compared to the standard Highlander, the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander stands out with its additional length, offering increased rear-seat legroom and expanded cargo capacity. The third-row seats are also more accessible, making the Grand Highlander a more comfortable option for families needing more room. In total, the Grand Highlander offers up to 97.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, significantly more than the 84.3 cubic feet available in the standard Highlander.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander offers a range of powertrain options designed to cater to various driving needs, from efficiency to performance. Whether you’re seeking a powerful engine or a hybrid model, the Grand Highlander has options for every driver.
Overview of Available Engines
- 2.4-liter Turbocharged Inline-Four Engine:
- This engine delivers a balance of power and fuel efficiency, producing up to 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It’s ideal for those who want solid performance without sacrificing too much on the fuel economy front. This engine is available in most trims and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
- 2.5-liter Hybrid Powertrain:
- The hybrid powertrain is designed for efficiency, providing an excellent fuel economy rating of 36 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. It produces a combined output of 243 horsepower and offers an eco-friendly driving experience without compromising on power.
- Hybrid MAX Powertrain:
- The Hybrid MAX powertrain is the performance-oriented option, combining a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with a hybrid system for a total output of 362 horsepower. It delivers the most powerful performance in the lineup, with enhanced acceleration and towing capabilities, making it ideal for those seeking a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Performance Metrics and Fuel Efficiency for Each Powertrain
- Turbocharged 2.4L Inline-Four Engine:
- Horsepower: 265 hp
- Torque: 310 lb-ft
- Fuel Efficiency: 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- 2.5L Hybrid Powertrain:
- Horsepower: 243 hp
- Fuel Efficiency: 36 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- Hybrid MAX Powertrain:
- Horsepower: 362 hp
- Torque: 400 lb-ft
- Fuel Efficiency: 27 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
Transmission Options and Drivetrain Configurations
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander offers two drivetrain configurations: front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The FWD configuration is standard on most trims, while AWD is optional for those seeking additional traction in adverse weather conditions or off-road environments. Additionally, the eight-speed automatic transmission provides smooth shifts, contributing to the SUV’s overall refined driving experience.
Interior Features and Comfort
Seating Capacity and Configurations
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander comfortably accommodates up to seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim and configuration. The second-row seats are available in both captain’s chair and bench seat formats, allowing families to tailor the interior to their needs. Third-row passengers benefit from improved legroom compared to the standard Highlander, making long road trips more comfortable.
Cargo Space and Storage Solutions
With its larger dimensions, the Grand Highlander offers an impressive cargo area, with 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 97.6 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. This makes the Grand Highlander a versatile option for hauling gear, luggage, or other large items.
Infotainment System Details, Including Screen Size and Connectivity Options
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, but higher trims offer a 12.3-inch display for a more expansive view of navigation, media, and vehicle settings. Toyota’s latest infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, ensuring seamless connectivity. Additionally, a 12-speaker JBL audio system is available in higher trims, providing an enhanced listening experience.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Comfort features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated and ventilated seats, and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. For added convenience, the Grand Highlander offers a hands-free power liftgate, wireless charging, and a suite of USB ports.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Standard and Optional Safety Features
Toyota continues to prioritize safety with the 2025 Grand Highlander. The SUV comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes a suite of driver assistance features such as:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Automatic high beams
- Adaptive cruise control
Additionally, the Grand Highlander offers available features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors, ensuring comprehensive safety coverage for all passengers.
Crash Test Ratings and Safety Accolades
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander has not yet been rated by the NHTSA, but the standard Highlander has historically earned high marks for safety. Given the shared platform, it’s expected that the Grand Highlander will maintain a similar safety profile. The Grand Highlander is also expected to earn Top Safety Pick+ status from the IIHS.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is available in five trims:
- LE – Entry-level trim with standard features like LED headlights and the Toyota Safety Sense suite.
- XLE – Adds features like a larger touchscreen and a power-adjustable front passenger seat.
- Limited – Includes premium features such as leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof.
- Nightshade – Sports blacked-out exterior elements for a more aggressive appearance.
- Platinum – Top-tier trim with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, premium audio, and a fully loaded interior.
Pricing for the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander starts at approximately $41,000 for the base LE trim, with higher trims like the Platinum pushing the price closer to $55,000.
Driving Experience
The driving experience of the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is characterized by its smooth ride, stable handling, and quiet cabin. The standard turbocharged engine provides a confident and responsive performance, while the hybrid powertrains offer impressive fuel economy. The Grand Highlander’s handling is composed, whether navigating tight city streets or cruising on the highway.
For off-road enthusiasts, the AWD configurations provide added capability, though the Grand Highlander is not as rugged as some of its off-road-focused competitors.
Competitor Comparison
When you look at the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander and compare it to important competitors such as the Honda Passport, Ford Edge, and Hyundai Palisade, it clearly sets itself apart in several notable ways. One of the most impressive aspects of the Grand Highlander is the wide variety of hybrid powertrains that it offers. This selection not only appeals to those who are environmentally conscious but also those seeking better fuel efficiency in their daily driving.
In addition to its hybrid options, the Grand Highlander comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features designed to keep both drivers and passengers secure on the road. These technologies make it a strong choice for families and individuals who prioritize safety in their vehicle.
Moreover, the Grand Highlander provides more cargo space than many of its rivals, making it easier for you to transport gear, groceries, or luggage without feeling cramped. However, it is essential to keep in mind that while it excels in cargo room, its towing capacity might not measure up to that of larger SUVs that are built specifically for off-road adventures and handling heavier loads.
Ultimately, buyers should carefully consider their specific needs and preferences when evaluating the Grand Highlander against other options on the market, weighing factors like cargo space, hybrid availability, safety features, and towing capability to find the right fit for their lifestyle.
Conclusion: 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander truly stands out in the SUV market because it provides a lot of space along with a very comfortable ride. This makes it an excellent choice for families that need additional room for passengers and cargo as well as modern features that enhance the driving experience. One of the key highlights of the Grand Highlander is its variety of powertrain options which cater to different driving preferences and needs. Whether you prefer a more performance-oriented engine or one that focuses on fuel efficiency, there is an option for you.
Safety is another major strength of the Grand Highlander. It comes equipped with many advanced safety features designed to protect you and your loved ones on the road. These features not only help in preventing accidents but also provide peace of mind while you’re driving. Inside, the Grand Highlander has a luxurious and thoughtfully designed interior that adds to the overall enjoyment of the ride. The materials used are high-quality, and the layout is user-friendly, making it easy for everyone to get comfortable.
Given all of these qualities, the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is a strong competitor in the crowded midsize SUV market. Whether you prioritize performance, fuel economy, or a pleasant and comfortable driving experience, the Grand Highlander meets all these needs. Overall, it is a dependable and well-equipped vehicle that stands out as a great choice for families looking for a capable and enjoyable SUV.
How much is the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander?
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is available in several trims, each with its own pricing:
LE: Starting at $42,310.
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XLE: Starting at $45,080.
Limited: Starting at $49,810.
Platinum: Starting at $55,495.
Additionally, the Hybrid models are priced as follows:
Hybrid XLE: Starting at $45,380.
Hybrid Limited: Starting at $51,710.
Please note that these prices are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) and may vary based on dealer pricing, optional features, and regional factors.
Is the Toyota Highlander changing in 2025?
Yes, the 2025 Toyota Highlander has undergone several changes:
New Trims and Features: The 2025 model introduces new trims, including the Nightshade edition for the hybrid variant, featuring black exterior accents and an 11-speaker JBL Audio System.
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Pricing Adjustments: The base price for the petrol LE trim has been reduced by approximately $2,460, now starting at $42,310.
Hybrid Enhancements: The Highlander Hybrid now comes standard with all-wheel drive, enhancing its performance and versatility.
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Design Updates: The 2025 model features a bold exterior design with aerodynamic contours, a refined grille, and new color options like Heavy Metal and Cement.
Is Toyota Highlander a luxury car?
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers a premium experience but is not classified as a luxury vehicle. While it provides high-quality materials and advanced features, it doesn’t carry the luxury badge associated with brands like Lexus.
Is Grand Highlander only hybrid?
No, the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is available with both traditional gasoline and hybrid powertrains. The standard model features a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, while the hybrid options include a 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain and a more powerful Hybrid MAX system.
What is the gas mileage on a 2025 Toyota Highlander?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander offers the following fuel economy ratings:
LE Trim: Approximately 25 MPG combined (22 MPG city / 29 MPG highway).
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XLE Trim: Approximately 24 MPG combined (21 MPG city / 28 MPG highway).
Limited Trim: Approximately 24 MPG combined (21 MPG city / 28 MPG highway).
Hybrid Models: Approximately 27–31 MPG combined, depending on driving conditions and specific model.
These figures may vary based on driving habits, vehicle condition, and specific configurations.
What colors will the 2025 Highlander come in?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is available in the following exterior colors:
Wind Chill Pearl
Ruby Flare Pearl
Midnight Black Metallic
Magnetic Gray Metallic
Heavy Metal
Cypress
Cement
Celestial Silver Metallic
Blueprint
Is Highlander same as Fortuner?
No, the Toyota Highlander and Fortuner are distinct models. The Highlander is a midsize SUV primarily designed for on-road use, offering a comfortable ride and advanced safety features. In contrast, the Fortuner is a full-size SUV built on a truck-based platform, emphasizing off-road capabilities and durability. While both are SUVs in Toyota’s lineup, they cater to different market segments and driving needs.
Which is better, Highlander or Highlander Hybrid?
The choice between the Toyota Highlander and the Highlander Hybrid depends on your priorities:
Fuel Efficiency: The Highlander Hybrid offers superior fuel economy, achieving approximately 35 mpg combined, compared to the standard Highlander’s 25 mpg combined.
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Performance: The standard Highlander provides robust performance with its turbocharged engine, while the Hybrid balances power and efficiency, delivering a smoother and quieter driving experience.
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Cost: The Highlander Hybrid typically comes at a higher initial price, which may take several years to offset through fuel savings.
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Environmental Impact: The Hybrid model produces fewer emissions, making it a more eco-friendly choice.
In summary, if fuel economy and environmental considerations are your top priorities, the Highlander Hybrid is the better choice. However, if performance and lower upfront costs are more important, the standard Highlander may be preferable.
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