If you’re browsing for a midsize SUV that isn’t trying to pretend it’s ready for rock-crawling or river fording, chances are the Toyota Highlander is already on your radar. Whether you’re looking for the standard turbo model or the efficient Toyota Highlander Hybrid, this SUV continues to be a go-to for families, commuters, and anyone wanting space without sacrificing comfort or practicality.
For 2025, Toyota has introduced mild updates to both the gas-powered and hybrid models, plus a special edition that commemorates the Highlander’s journey so far. Here’s a closer look at the 2025 Toyota Highlander, its trims, specs, tyre size, dimensions, engine performance, and more—including how it stacks up compared to the Toyota Grand Highlander and even last year’s 2024 Toyota Highlander.
Toyota Highlander Exterior – Tweaked Looks, Trim-Specific Flavors
Design-wise, the Highlander remains clean and conservative. It’s not trying to be flashy, but each trim adds a unique personality:
- LE: Comes with basic black grille, 18-inch alloy wheels, and standard body color trim.
- XLE Nightshade Hybrid: Adds all-black exterior accents, badges, and wheels. A sleek urban look.
- XSE: Goes sportier with 20-inch wheels, a mesh grille, spoiler, and more aggressive touches.
- 25th Anniversary Edition: Subtle badges, exclusive 20-inch wheels, and a special puddle lamp projection.
- Platinum: Premium chrome touches, panoramic sunroof, and adaptive headlights.
Tyre sizes range from 18 inches on the LE and XLE to 20 inches on the XSE and above. Toyota’s kept it real with a functional, not over-designed appearance that makes sense for what most Highlander owners actually want.
Toyota Highlander Dimensions & Spare Tyre Info
When it comes to dimensions, the Highlander slots right into the midsize segment:
- Length: 194.9 inches
- Width: 76 inches
- Height: 68.1 inches
- Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
The Toyota Highlander offers a balanced footprint—big enough for three rows, small enough to still park without sweating bullets. You also get a spare tyre (compact type) tucked beneath the rear cargo area, something that’s become increasingly rare these days.
Toyota Highlander Interior – Functional Comfort with a Touch of Luxe
The interior quality of the 2025 Highlander really depends on your chosen trim:
- LE: Fabric seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, bench seating for 8, and 5 USB ports.
- XLE: Heated front seats, wireless phone charging, optional 12.3-inch touchscreen, and second-row captain’s chairs.
- XSE: Ambient lighting and sportier trim all around.
- Limited & Platinum: Leather seats, ventilated front seats, 12.3-inch digital cluster, and available JBL sound system.
- 25th Anniversary Edition: Unique leather upholstery with 25th-badged floor mats and headrests, plus heated/ventilated first and second rows.
Whether you’re eyeing the Toyota Highlander Hybrid or sticking with gas, the cabin stays roomy, tech-loaded, and surprisingly refined.
Toyota Highlander Engine, Transmission & Mechanical Details
Let’s talk powertrains. Here’s where Toyota offers two distinct vibes:
2.4L Turbocharged Gas Engine:
- 265 horsepower
- 310 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel or all-wheel drive available
This setup replaces the older V6 and brings more torque down low—great for urban driving and highway merging.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder paired with two electric motors
- 243 combined horsepower
- CVT transmission
- All-wheel drive standard across all hybrid trims in 2025
- Rated up to 35 mpg combined
For city dwellers or families who rack up weekly mileage, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a smart long-term play. Toyota’s hybrid tech has proven to be one of the most reliable in the industry.
The XSE AWD even includes a sport-tuned suspension and torque-vectoring AWD—it defaults to Sport mode on startup, so it’s ready to play a little, too.
Also Read More about it’s competition Rav4, Ford Everest
2025 Toyota Highlander Price & Trim Breakdown
Now for what really matters—the money. Here’s how the Toyota Highlander price stacks up across the lineup:
| Trim | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Highlander LE FWD | $44,997 |
| Highlander LE AWD | $45,570 |
| XLE FWD | $47,125 |
| XLE Hybrid AWD | $47,476 |
| XSE AWD (Gas Only) | $47,700 |
| Limited FWD | $48,226 |
| Limited AWD | $50,100 |
| Limited Hybrid AWD | $51,900 |
| 25th Anniversary Edition | $54,130 |
| Platinum AWD | $53,375 |
| Platinum Hybrid AWD | $55,125 |
Even fully loaded, the Highlander remains under the luxury pricing threshold—especially compared to larger models like the Toyota Grand Highlander, which is pricier but adds more room and tech.
Pros & Cons of the 2025 Toyota Highlander
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent fuel economy on hybrid models | No V6 engine anymore—may disappoint traditionalists |
| Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ standard across the range | Not as engaging to drive as some competitors |
| Cabin layout is functional and family-friendly | Lower trims feel basic next to rivals |
| Broad range of trims and hybrid options | Some tech features cost extra even on mid-tier trims |
FAQs About the Toyota Highlander
Q: What is the Toyota Highlander tyre size?
A: It ranges from 18-inch to 20-inch wheels, depending on the trim.
Q: What are the Toyota Highlander dimensions?
A: Length: 194.9 in, Width: 76 in, Height: 68.1 in, Wheelbase: 112.2 in.
Q: Does the 2025 Highlander include a spare tyre?
A: Yes, all models come with a compact spare tyre under the rear cargo floor.
Q: How does the Toyota Highlander Hybrid perform?
A: It delivers 243 horsepower and up to 35 mpg, with standard AWD.
Q: What’s the Toyota Highlander price in 2025?
A: Starts around $44,997 and goes up to about $55,125 for the top-spec hybrid.
Q: Is there a difference between the Toyota Highlander and Toyota Grand Highlander?
A: Yes. The Toyota Grand Highlander is a larger, more luxurious version with more third-row space and a higher starting price.
Q: Can I still buy the 2024 Toyota Highlander?
A: Yes, some dealers still have Toyota Highlander 2024 models for sale, usually at a slight discount.
Final Verdict – Is the 2025 Highlander Still Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether you go hybrid or not, the Highlander Toyota lineup continues to check all the boxes for space, safety, and value. If you’re looking for a reliable, practical SUV that doesn’t break the bank and still feels premium, the 2025 Toyota Highlander delivers. Just don’t waste your money on the top trims unless you’re truly going all-in. The XLE or Limited Hybrid is where the real sweet spot lies.
Author- Ayush
