2025 Toyota Grand Highlander: A Comprehensive Overview of Toyota's Premium Three-Row SUV
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander stands as one of Toyota's most ambitious entries in the three-row SUV segment, blending spaciousness, advanced technology, and versatile performance. Designed to cater to families and drivers seeking both comfort and capability, the Grand Highlander builds upon Toyota's reputation for reliability while introducing new features and refinements for the modern era. With its debut, this SUV aims to fill the gap between the standard Highlander and the larger Sequoia, offering more room, enhanced amenities, and a choice of powertrains to suit diverse preferences. The 2025 model year brings updates in design, safety, and connectivity, reflecting Toyota's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander is a midsize three-row SUV that sits above the standard Highlander in Toyota's lineup, offering greater interior space, advanced technology, and a refined driving experience. With a focus on family comfort, versatility, and modern amenities, it competes directly with other popular large SUVs in the US market. The Grand Highlander is available in multiple trims, including both gasoline and hybrid powertrains, making it an attractive option for a wide range of buyers. Its spacious cabin, advanced safety features, and user-friendly infotainment system set it apart as a leader in its segment, while Toyota's reputation for durability and value further enhances its appeal. As demand for larger, more capable SUVs continues to grow, the Grand Highlander is positioned to meet the needs of families and individuals seeking a blend of practicality, comfort, and innovation.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The 2025 Grand Highlander features a bold and contemporary design language, characterized by a prominent front grille, sleek LED headlights, and sculpted body lines. The SUV's larger footprint compared to the standard Highlander translates to increased passenger and cargo space, making it ideal for families or those who frequently travel with groups. With a length of approximately 201.4 inches, a width of 78.3 inches, and a height of 70.1 inches, the Grand Highlander provides a commanding presence on the road while maintaining maneuverability in urban environments. Available wheel sizes range from 18 to 20 inches, depending on trim level, and a variety of exterior color options allow for personalization.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Grand Highlander is designed to maximize comfort and convenience for up to eight passengers. The spacious cabin features three rows of seating, with available second-row captain's chairs for increased comfort and easier access to the third row. High-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and thoughtful storage solutions contribute to a premium feel throughout the interior. The SUV boasts a large digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an available JBL premium audio system. Multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and a panoramic sunroof further enhance the in-cabin experience. Cargo space is generous, with up to 97.5 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded, making it easy to transport luggage, sports equipment, or larger items.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The 2025 Grand Highlander offers a choice of three powertrains to suit different driving preferences and efficiency needs:
- 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (265 hp, 310 lb-ft torque)
- 2.5-liter hybrid (243 combined hp, excellent fuel efficiency)
- 2.4-liter turbocharged Hybrid MAX (362 hp, 400 lb-ft torque, for those seeking maximum performance)
Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available across most trims. The Hybrid MAX powertrain is paired with a sport-tuned suspension for a more dynamic driving experience, while the standard hybrid prioritizes fuel economy. Towing capacity ranges from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds, depending on configuration, making the Grand Highlander suitable for light trailering and recreational activities.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Toyota equips the Grand Highlander with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance technologies under the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 package. Standard features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offer additional features such as a 360-degree camera system, front and rear parking sensors, and a head-up display. These technologies work together to provide peace of mind and help prevent accidents in a variety of driving conditions.
Trim Levels and Features
The Grand Highlander is offered in several trims, including XLE, Limited, and Platinum, each building upon the previous with additional features and amenities. Standard equipment on the XLE includes heated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, and power liftgate. The Limited trim adds leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system, while the Platinum trim introduces features such as a panoramic sunroof, advanced navigation, and additional driver assistance technologies. Hybrid variants are available in most trims, allowing buyers to balance performance and efficiency according to their needs.
Comparison Table: 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander vs. Key Competitors
| Model | Starting Price (USD) | Seating Capacity | Max Cargo Space (cu ft) | Max Horsepower | Hybrid Option | AWD Available | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Grand Highlander | 44,500 | 7-8 | 97.5 | 362 | Yes | Yes | 5,000 |
| Kia Telluride | 37,500 | 7-8 | 87.0 | 291 | No | Yes | 5,500 |
| Honda Pilot | 39,500 | 7-8 | 87.0 | 285 | No | Yes | 5,000 |
| Hyundai Palisade | 38,900 | 7-8 | 86.4 | 291 | No | Yes | 5,000 |
| Chevrolet Traverse | 38,500 | 7-8 | 98.2 | 328 | No | Yes | 5,000 |
| Ford Explorer | 40,000 | 6-7 | 87.8 | 400 | Yes | Yes | 5,600 |
Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact
One of the Grand Highlander's standout features is its hybrid powertrain, which delivers impressive fuel efficiency for a vehicle of its size. The standard hybrid is estimated to achieve up to 36 mpg combined, making it a leader among three-row SUVs in terms of efficiency. The Hybrid MAX variant offers a balance of power and economy, while the turbocharged gasoline engine provides robust performance with moderate fuel consumption. Toyota's commitment to reducing emissions and promoting sustainable mobility is evident in the Grand Highlander's engineering and available eco-friendly options.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Grand Highlander is equipped with Toyota's latest infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, cloud-based navigation, over-the-air updates, and voice recognition. Wireless smartphone integration, multiple charging ports, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot ensure that passengers stay connected on the go. The system is designed for ease of use, with intuitive menus and responsive controls, supporting a seamless digital experience for all occupants.
Practicality and Everyday Usability
Practicality is a hallmark of the Grand Highlander, with thoughtful features such as a hands-free power liftgate, configurable seating, and ample storage compartments throughout the cabin. The flat load floor and low liftover height make loading and unloading cargo easy, while split-folding rear seats provide flexibility for carrying larger items. Rear-seat passengers benefit from dedicated climate controls, sunshades, and available entertainment options, ensuring comfort on longer journeys.
Ownership Experience and Warranty
Toyota backs the Grand Highlander with a comprehensive warranty package, including a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Hybrid components are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, reflecting Toyota's confidence in its hybrid technology. The brand's reputation for reliability and strong resale value further enhance the ownership experience, making the Grand Highlander a smart long-term investment for families and individuals alike.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander successfully blends space, technology, and efficiency in a package that caters to the needs of modern families. Its combination of advanced safety features, versatile powertrains, and premium amenities positions it as a top contender in the three-row SUV market. For those seeking a reliable, comfortable, and well-equipped vehicle capable of handling a variety of driving scenarios, the Grand Highlander is a standout choice in 2025.
References
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