2025 Toyota Grand Highlander review spacious family SUV with hybrid and performance options
The automotive world doesn’t slow down, and neither does Toyota. For 2025, Toyota has introduced a refreshed version of its popular three-row SUV—the Grand Highlander. Sitting comfortably between the standard Highlander and the full-size Sequoia, the new Grand Highlander delivers a robust blend of comfort, performance, and technology tailored for growing families and adventurous road-trippers alike. But this isn’t just a stretched Highlander. It’s a bold statement in the mid-to-full-size crossover category.
From spacious interior configurations and powertrain options to cutting-edge driver-assist technologies, the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander aims to lead the three-row SUV market. Let’s explore what makes this SUV more than just grand in name.
Design and Exterior Styling
The Grand Highlander distinguishes itself with a longer, more muscular stance compared to its sibling, the Highlander. The extended wheelbase doesn’t just offer visual presence—it also unlocks improved interior capacity.
- Front fascia: Angular LED headlamps, an upright grille finished with tasteful black or chrome accents (depending on trim), and available LED fog lights.
- Profile: Smooth body lines, pronounced wheel arches, and 18 to 20-inch alloy wheels enhance road confidence.
- Rear: Modern wraparound LED tail lamps and a sculpted liftgate lend a polished yet aggressive rear look.
Toyota offers the Grand Highlander in various colors, including classic choices like Magnetic Gray Metallic and cutting-edge hues such as Blueprint and Ruby Flare Pearl. Optional aesthetic packages include power-folding side mirrors, roof rails, and dual exhaust tips for added flair.
Interior Comfort and Space
Perhaps the most notable feature of the Grand Highlander is its spacious, three-row interior. Designed with modern families in mind, this SUV goes beyond squeezing in a third row—every row offers substantial legroom and thoughtful amenities.
Three-Row Flexibility
- Seating capacity: Up to 8 passengers with a second-row bench or 7 passengers with available captain’s chairs.
- Cargo space: Approximately 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to almost 98 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat.
- Interior materials: High-quality soft-touch panels, stitched dashboards, and available leather upholstery on upper trims.
Convenience Features
Drivers and passengers alike will appreciate:
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Available heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
- USB-C ports available in all rows
- Panoramic moonroof on premium trims
With its quiet cabin, ergonomic controls, and generous second and third-row access, the Grand Highlander makes long drives feel effortless.
Technology and Infotainment
Toyota equips the 2025 Grand Highlander with its latest generation infotainment system, headlined by a vibrant 12.3-inch touchscreen interface.
- Standard connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration
- Digital instrumentation: Fully digital 12.3-inch driver display on higher trims
- Available tech upgrades: JBL Premium Audio with 11 speakers, Qi wireless charging pad, and head-up display
- Toyota’s Remote Connect: Enables smartphone-based remote start, lock/unlock, and vehicle location tracking
Technology is seamlessly woven into the experience, with intuitive navigation, quick-response voice commands, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot that supports up to five devices.
Performance and Powertrain Options
Toyota offers three powertrain configurations with the 2025 Grand Highlander, satisfying a range of drivers from daily commuters to SUV enthusiasts craving turbocharged power or hybrid efficiency.
Gasoline Engine
- 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque
- Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive standard; AWD available
Traditional Hybrid
- 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid system with a combined output of 243 horsepower
- eCVT transmission for smoother transitions
- Excellent fuel economy; estimates around 36 MPG combined
Hybrid MAX Performance
- 2.4L turbo hybrid system delivering 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque
- 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds, making it one of the quickest in its class
- Standard all-wheel-drive with dynamic torque control
This range of powertrains allows customers to choose between fuel efficiency, daily usability, or maximum performance. Toyota’s Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD system further enhances road grip, ensuring confident driving in all weather scenarios.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Toyota continues to set the bar high when it comes to vehicle safety. All trims of the 2025 Grand Highlander are equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of enhanced active safety technologies.
Standard Safety Features
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Dynamic radar cruise control
- Lane tracing assist
- Automatic high beams
- Road sign assist
Available Safety Add-ons
- Advanced parking assist
- Blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
- 360-degree panoramic view monitor
- Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking
Toyota’s advanced camera and radar systems ensure optimal accident prevention across both urban driving and high-speed cruising.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Grand Highlander comes in several trim levels to suit various preferences and budgets:
- XLE: Offers generous standard features like heated front seats and wireless smartphone connectivity.
- Limited: Adds luxury and convenience with leather surfaces, ambient lighting, and JBL premium audio.
- Platinum: Top-tier luxury with power-folding mirrors, head-up display, and the animated digital instrument panel.
- Hybrid MAX: Focused on performance with exclusive performance hybrid powertrain, standard AWD, and unique trim elements.
Starting MSRP begins around $43,000 for the XLE and can go upwards of $56,000 for the fully equipped Hybrid MAX Platinum.
Real-World Usability and Driving Experience
From test drives and trusted automotive reviews, the consensus is clear: the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander delivers excellent ride comfort, quiet cabin experience, and family-first practicality.
Driving Impressions
- Confident cornering and composed ride, even when fully loaded
- Responsiveness and spirited acceleration in Hybrid MAX trims
- Hybrid variant impresses with silent acceleration and fuel savings
The SUV’s all-around visibility is excellent, supported by multiple camera views during tricky traffic or parking conditions.
Family-Oriented Features
Toyota didn’t forget the little details. The Grand Highlander offers multiple features that cater specifically to family haulers and weekend adventurers.
- Second-row sunshades for child passenger comfort
- Conversation mirror to monitor rear-seat passengers
- Rear-seat reminder system for added safety
- Optional rear entertainment system to keep kids occupied
With seating flexibility and accessible technology in every row, the Grand Highlander positions itself as one of the smartest choices for modern family transport.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2025 Grand Highlander?
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander has all the ingredients to be a leading choice for families and individuals seeking generous space without compromising on performance or efficiency. Whether you prioritize long-haul comfort, weekday functionality, or the latest in driver-assist features, Toyota delivers a refined vehicle with unmistakable value and advanced capabilities.
For car enthusiasts and dealers, the Grand Highlander opens doors to a robust market segment. Its hybrid variants cater to a growing eco-conscious demographic, while its high-performance trim offers something sportier for upscale buyers. The extensive choice of trims makes it a solid addition to any dealership lot.
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