The Toyota Highlander has been a go-to ride for busy families since it hit roads back in 2001. Now, as it marks 25 years in the game, the 2025 model rolls out with some smart updates that keep it fresh without shaking things up too much. Toyota calls it a celebration of its long run, adding a special edition and a few tweaks to make it even better for everyday hauls. Whether you’re shuttling kids to soccer or heading out on a road trip, this three-row SUV promises space, smarts, and solid fuel savings. With sales kicking off soon, it’s turning heads among folks looking for reliable wheels that won’t break the bank.
Power Under the Hood: Engine Choices That Fit Your Drive
At the heart of the 2025 Highlander sits a punchy 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine cranking out 265 horsepower and 310 pounds-feet of torque. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifts and quick getaways. Front-wheel drive comes standard on gas models, but all-wheel drive is there if you need extra grip for rain or light snow. Toyota says you can expect about 22 miles per gallon in the city, 29 on the highway, and 25 combined with front-wheel drive. Go for all-wheel, and it’s a tad less at 21 city, 28 highway, and 24 combined. Those numbers make it a smart pick for long commutes without constant gas station stops.
For those who want even greener rides, the Highlander Hybrid steps up with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder teamed to electric motors for a total of 243 horses. It’s now all-wheel drive only, which means better traction right out of the box. Fuel sipping? Try 35 city, 35 highway, and 35 combined. That’s a big win over rivals like the Ford Explorer Hybrid. Plus, drive modes let you switch from normal cruising to eco-saving or sporty bursts, keeping things fun no matter the road.
Inside Scoop: Room, Tech, and a Special Anniversary Touch
Climb inside, and the Highlander feels like home with seating for up to eight and plenty of spots for gear. The cabin mixes hard plastics up front with softer touches higher up, and the third row works best for kids or short trips. Cargo space? You’ve got 16 cubic feet behind the back seats, expanding to 84 when you fold them flat. Tech keeps up with an 8-inch touchscreen on base models, bumping to 12.3 inches on fancier ones, all with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The big news is the 25th Edition, built off the Hybrid Limited trim. It rocks silver 20-inch wheels, Portobello tan leather seats, and badges everywhere to shout out the milestone. Other trims like LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum layer on goodies from heated seats to a 360-degree camera and JBL sound. Here’s a quick look at starting prices to help you shop:
| Trim Level | Starting Price (Gas) | Starting Price (Hybrid) |
|---|---|---|
| LE | $39,520 | $46,320 |
| XLE | $41,860 | $48,660 |
| XSE | N/A | $51,425 |
| Limited | $47,735 | $53,225 |
| Platinum | $52,225 | $56,925 |
| 25th Edition | N/A | $56,100 |
Prices include destination fees and can vary by options.
Safety First: Tech That Watches Your Back
Toyota packs the Highlander with its Safety Sense 3.0 suite as standard gear. That means automatic emergency braking that spots people or cars ahead, lane-keeping help to stay centered, and adaptive cruise control that adjusts speed in traffic. Blind-spot warnings and rear cross-traffic alerts add peace of mind when parking or merging. It earned top crash scores from the government, making it a safe bet for families. Rain-sensing wipers and a head-up display on top trims keep your eyes on the road.
When Can You Get Yours? Release and Why It Stands Out
Dealers will start stocking the 2025 Highlander in November 2024, just in time for holiday shopping or new year upgrades. With the bigger Grand Highlander out there, this one shines as the more affordable family hauler. It’s not the flashiest or roomiest in the bunch, but its mix of efficiency, comfort, and Toyota’s rock-solid rep keeps buyers coming back. If you’re eyeing a three-row SUV that handles daily life without fuss, the Highlander delivers. Head to a lot soon, and you might snag one before the rush. At the end of the day, it’s about getting where you need to go, with room for the whole crew and a smile on your face.