The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is Toyota’s answer to a growing demand: a three-row SUV that offers real adult-friendly space, modern technology, and efficient powertrains without moving into full-size SUV territory. Positioned above the standard Highlander, the Grand Highlander focuses on maximizing interior room, improving third-row comfort, and delivering strong hybrid performance options that few rivals can match.
For families who need space without sacrificing fuel efficiency, or buyers who want a premium-feeling SUV with Toyota’s long-standing reliability, the 2025 Grand Highlander presents a compelling case. This review takes a deep look at its design, interior, performance, safety, trims, ownership costs, and how it stacks up against competitors.
What Is the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander?
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is a midsize three-row SUV built on Toyota’s TNGA-K platform. It is larger than the standard Highlander, with a longer wheelbase and extended body designed specifically to improve third-row seating and cargo capacity.
Unlike many three-row SUVs where the third row feels like an afterthought, the Grand Highlander is engineered to comfortably accommodate adults in all rows. It also stands out by offering three distinct powertrain options, including two hybrid systems, making it one of the most versatile SUVs in its class.
What’s New for the 2025 Model Year
For 2025, the Toyota Grand Highlander carries over largely unchanged, which reflects Toyota’s confidence in the model’s initial design and engineering. The exterior styling, powertrain lineup, and interior technology remain consistent, while minor software refinements and feature availability updates enhance overall usability.
This approach benefits buyers by ensuring proven reliability rather than introducing untested changes.
Exterior Design and Road Presence
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander features a clean, confident exterior design that prioritizes proportion and presence over aggressive styling. Its longer body and wide stance give it a planted look on the road, while subtle sculpting keeps it from appearing bulky.
Up front, the bold grille design varies slightly by trim, with higher trims receiving more refined finishes. Slim LED headlights and clean character lines contribute to a modern appearance that aligns with Toyota’s latest SUV design language.
Wheel sizes range from practical designs on lower trims to larger, more premium alloys on upper trims, enhancing curb appeal without sacrificing ride comfort.
Color Options and Styling Variants
Toyota offers a balanced palette of exterior colors, including classic neutrals and more expressive metallic finishes. Higher trims add subtle chrome or gloss-black accents, allowing buyers to choose between understated elegance and a sportier look.
Interior Design, Comfort, and Space
Inside, the 2025 Grand Highlander focuses on space, visibility, and comfort. The cabin layout is open and airy, with a low dashboard design that improves forward visibility. Material quality increases noticeably as you move up the trim ladder, with soft-touch surfaces and refined stitching on higher trims.
Seating comfort is excellent across all three rows. The second row offers generous legroom, while the third row is genuinely usable for adults, even on longer drives. This is one of the Grand Highlander’s biggest advantages over competitors.
Cargo space is equally impressive. Even with all seats in place, there is enough room for groceries or luggage, and folding the third row opens up a large, flat load floor.
Dashboard Layout and Build Quality
The dashboard integrates digital displays seamlessly without feeling overwhelming. Controls are logically placed, and physical buttons remain for key functions, a welcome choice for everyday usability.
Cargo Capacity and Family Practicality
Multiple storage compartments, cupholders, and charging ports make the Grand Highlander ideal for family use. A power tailgate, available hands-free operation, and wide-opening rear doors further enhance convenience.
Infotainment and Connected Technology
Toyota equips the 2025 Grand Highlander with its latest Audio Multimedia system. Screen sizes vary by trim, but even base models offer crisp graphics and responsive touch controls.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity and multiple USB ports throughout the cabin. Higher trims add features like a premium audio system, cloud-based navigation, and advanced voice recognition that responds naturally to spoken commands.
Over-the-air update capability ensures the system remains current over time.
Powertrain Options and Driving Performance
One of the Grand Highlander’s strongest selling points is its diverse powertrain lineup. Toyota offers three distinct setups, each catering to a different type of buyer.
2.4L Turbo Gas Engine
The standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivers strong torque and smooth acceleration. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it provides confident highway passing and composed city driving. This option is well-suited for buyers who prioritize traditional performance and towing capability.
Hybrid MAX Performance System
The Hybrid MAX powertrain is the standout choice for drivers who want both power and efficiency. With a combined output of around 362 horsepower, it delivers quick acceleration while maintaining respectable fuel economy. This system uses a more performance-oriented hybrid setup and a six-speed automatic transmission, making it feel more engaging than typical hybrids.
Standard Hybrid System
The standard hybrid option focuses on efficiency and smoothness. Ideal for urban commuting and long-distance travel, it offers excellent fuel economy without sacrificing practicality. The eCVT transmission delivers seamless power delivery and a relaxed driving experience.
Ride Quality, Handling, and AWD Capability
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander rides comfortably, absorbing road imperfections with ease. Suspension tuning favors comfort over sportiness, which suits its family-oriented mission.
Steering is light and predictable, making the vehicle easy to maneuver despite its size. All-wheel drive is available across most trims and powertrains, improving traction in poor weather and adding confidence on uneven roads. While not designed for serious off-roading, it handles light trails and winter conditions competently.
Fuel Economy and Real-World Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a major advantage for the Grand Highlander, especially in hybrid form. The standard hybrid delivers excellent combined fuel economy, making it one of the most efficient three-row SUVs available.
The Hybrid MAX sacrifices some efficiency for performance but still outperforms many gas-only rivals. Even the turbocharged gas model remains competitive within its segment.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
Toyota Safety Sense comes standard on all 2025 Grand Highlander trims. This suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and traffic sign recognition.
Higher trims add features such as a 360-degree camera system, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and enhanced parking assistance. These systems work smoothly in the background, enhancing safety without feeling intrusive.
Trims and Feature Breakdown
Toyota offers the Grand Highlander in multiple trims to suit different budgets and preferences.
XLE
The XLE serves as a strong entry point, offering a comprehensive set of comfort and safety features. It includes a power driver’s seat, large infotainment display, and advanced safety systems, making it an excellent value.
Limited
The Limited trim adds premium touches such as upgraded interior materials, larger wheels, and enhanced technology features. It strikes a balance between comfort and cost.
Platinum
The Platinum trim focuses on luxury, adding ventilated seats, premium audio, advanced driver aids, and exclusive styling elements. It delivers a near-luxury experience without luxury-brand pricing.
Hybrid MAX Exclusive Trims
Hybrid MAX variants combine performance-focused tuning with upscale features. These trims appeal to buyers who want strong acceleration alongside advanced technology and comfort.
Ownership Costs, Reliability, and Warranty
Toyota’s reputation for reliability is a key factor for many buyers. The Grand Highlander benefits from proven engineering and powertrains shared across Toyota’s lineup.
Warranty coverage includes a standard limited warranty, powertrain warranty, and extended hybrid component coverage. Maintenance costs are generally lower than many competitors, and resale value is expected to remain strong.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander vs Key Rivals
In the competitive three-row SUV segment, the Grand Highlander stands out with its hybrid offerings and interior space. Compared to rivals like the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot, it offers better fuel efficiency and a smoother ride.
Buyers looking for rugged capability may consider alternatives, but for everyday family use, comfort, and efficiency, the Grand Highlander holds a strong advantage. Its positioning within Toyota’s SUV lineup also complements models inspired by Toyota’s legendary Land Cruiser heritage, which emphasizes durability and long-term dependability, as explored here.
Who Should Buy the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander
The 2025 Grand Highlander is ideal for families who need real third-row space, commuters who value fuel efficiency, and buyers seeking long-term reliability. It suits those who want a modern, comfortable SUV without stepping up to a full-size model.
Drivers who prioritize sporty handling or serious off-road capability may look elsewhere, but for balanced, everyday usability, the Grand Highlander excels.
Specifications
Technical Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Platform | TNGA-K |
| Body Style | Three-row midsize SUV |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
Powertrain and Performance
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Turbo Gas | ~265 hp | ~310 lb-ft | 8-speed automatic |
| Hybrid | ~245 hp | Combined output | eCVT |
| Hybrid MAX | ~362 hp | ~400 lb-ft | 6-speed automatic |
Fuel Economy
| Powertrain | Estimated Combined MPG |
|---|---|
| Gas | ~24 mpg |
| Hybrid | ~34 mpg |
| Hybrid MAX | ~27 mpg |
Dimensions and Weight
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | ~201 inches |
| Wheelbase | ~116 inches |
| Seating Capacity | 7–8 passengers |
Pricing and Trims (Global Overview)
| Trim | Estimated Starting Price |
|---|---|
| XLE | ~$44,000 |
| Limited | ~$48,000 |
| Platinum | ~$52,000 |
| Hybrid MAX | ~$55,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander bigger than the Highlander?
Yes, it is longer and offers more third-row legroom and cargo space than the standard Highlander.
Does the Grand Highlander come with a hybrid option?
Yes, it offers both a standard hybrid and a high-performance Hybrid MAX option.
Which trim offers the best fuel economy?
The standard hybrid trim delivers the highest fuel efficiency.
Is all-wheel drive standard?
All-wheel drive is available across most trims but not standard on all models.
How many passengers can it seat comfortably?
It can comfortably seat seven or eight passengers, depending on configuration.
Conclusion
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander delivers exactly what modern SUV buyers are looking for: generous space, smart technology, strong safety features, and class-leading hybrid options. It fills the gap between midsize and full-size SUVs with confidence, offering a refined driving experience and long-term value.
For families and efficiency-focused buyers, it remains one of the most well-rounded three-row SUVs available.
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