Toyota Highlander: Price, Specs, Features & Review
The Toyota Highlander is a three-row midsize SUV for families who want seating for up to eight, available hybrid fuel economy, strong safety equipment, and an easier-to-manage size than a full-size SUV.
Buyers can choose between a 265-horsepower turbocharged gas engine or a hybrid system rated for up to 35 mpg combined. The gas model has up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, while the hybrid is the better option for lowering fuel costs.
The biggest compromise is third-row space. The Highlander works well for children and occasional adult passengers, but families that regularly carry adults in all three rows should also compare the larger Toyota Grand Highlander.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.3/10
The Toyota Highlander earns an 8.3/10 WheelPedia Rating. It offers strong family-SUV fundamentals, available hybrid efficiency, useful towing ability, and a broad range of comfort and safety features.
Its score is held back by a tight third row, modest cargo room behind that row, and a price that overlaps with roomier three-row SUVs.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 8.8/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and ownership | 8.7/10 | 15% |
| Performance and driving | 8.1/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and practicality | 7.8/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency and fuel economy | 8.5/10 | 15% |
| Features and technology | 8.4/10 | 10% |
| Price and value | 7.8/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.3/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full scoring method.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $46,270 MSRP in the US.
- Three-row SUV with seating for up to eight.
- Gas and hybrid powertrains available.
- Gas model: 265 hp and 310 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Hybrid returns up to an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined.
- Gas models can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Available AWD on gas and hybrid versions.
- Seven trims across gas and hybrid lineups.
- Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Available panoramic moonroof, 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, and head-up display.
- Best for families who need a third row but do not need Grand Highlander-level interior space.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Toyota Highlander |
| Vehicle type | Three-row midsize SUV |
| Seating capacity | Up to 8 |
| Gas engine | 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Gas output | 265 hp / 310 lb.-ft. |
| Hybrid efficiency | Up to 35 mpg combined |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic, gas / eCVT, hybrid |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD, depending on trim |
| Maximum towing capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs. |
| Cargo space behind third row | Up to 16.0 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | Up to 84.3 cu. ft. |
| Length | 194.9 in. |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 in. |
Expert Tip:
The Highlander Hybrid XLE is the best choice for most families. It delivers the lineup’s best fuel economy, includes three rows and strong safety equipment, and costs less than the higher-end Limited and Platinum trims. Choose the gas XLE if you need the 5,000-pound tow rating.
About the Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is positioned between the Toyota RAV4 and the larger Toyota Grand Highlander. It is a practical choice for buyers who want three rows but do not want the size, parking difficulty, and fuel costs of a full-size SUV.
The Highlander’s available hybrid system is one of its biggest advantages. It does not need to be plugged in and can return up to 35 mpg combined, which is excellent for a three-row SUV.
The standard gas engine is the better fit for buyers who tow heavier trailers or want stronger acceleration. Its 310 lb.-ft. of torque and available AWD make it more capable for towing, mountain driving, and loaded family trips.
Price and Trims
Destination, tax, registration, accessories, dealer-installed equipment, and local fees increase the final purchase price.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Powertrain | EPA-Estimated City / Highway MPG | Key Features |
| XLE | $46,270 | 2.4L turbo gas | 21 / 28 mpg | Heated front seats, SofTex seating, hands-free power liftgate |
| XSE | $48,340 | 2.4L turbo gas | 21 / 28 mpg | 20-in. wheels, sport-tuned suspension, sport exterior styling |
| Limited | $50,725 | 2.4L turbo gas | 21 / 28 mpg | 12.3-in. touchscreen, JBL audio, leather seats, ventilated front seats |
| Platinum | $53,925 | 2.4L turbo gas | 21 / 28 mpg | Panoramic roof, head-up display, Panoramic View Monitor |
| Hybrid XLE | $48,020 | Hybrid | 35 / 35 mpg | Three rows, wireless smartphone integration, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ |
| Hybrid Limited | $52,475 | Hybrid | 35 / 34 mpg | 12.3-in. touchscreen, JBL audio, leather seats |
| Hybrid Platinum | $55,675 | Hybrid | 35 / 34 mpg | Panoramic roof, heated second-row seats, premium safety and comfort equipment |
The Hybrid XLE is the best fit for most shoppers. It offers the Highlander’s main ownership advantage—excellent fuel economy—while retaining three-row seating and major safety equipment.
The gas XLE is the better choice for buyers who tow. Its turbocharged engine can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, compared with the hybrid’s lower towing capability.
The XSE is aimed at drivers who prefer a sportier look and firmer handling. It adds sport-tuned suspension and 20-inch wheels, but it is not meaningfully quicker than other gas Highlander trims.
Engine, Hybrid System, and Performance
The gas Highlander uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 265 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with front-wheel drive or AWD.
The Highlander Hybrid combines a gas engine with electric motors and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. It prioritizes fuel economy and smoothness rather than strong acceleration.
The gas Highlander is better for buyers who need stronger towing ability or regularly carry a full load of passengers and cargo. The hybrid is the better choice for commuting, family errands, and long highway trips where fuel costs matter more.
0–60 MPH Performance
Toyota does not publish an official 0–60 mph time for the current Highlander.
Independent testing of recent gas Highlander versions has generally placed 0–60 mph performance in the mid-to-high six-second range. The hybrid is slower but still adequate for normal merging and passing.
Driving Experience
The Highlander is tuned for family comfort. Its ride is generally composed, the cabin is quiet at highway speeds, and the elevated seating position gives drivers a clear view of the road.
The XSE has the sharpest handling because it adds sport-tuned suspension components, larger wheels, and sport-oriented exterior details. It is still a three-row family SUV, not a performance model.
AWD is useful for rain, snow, gravel, and light off-pavement conditions. Gas AWD models also include Multi-Terrain Select with Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, Snow, and Normal settings.
Fuel Economy
| Powertrain | EPA-Estimated City MPG | EPA-Estimated Highway MPG | EPA-Estimated Combined MPG |
| Gas Highlander | 21 mpg | 28 mpg | Up to 24 mpg |
| Highlander Hybrid XLE | 35 mpg | 35 mpg | 35 mpg |
| Highlander Hybrid Limited / Platinum | 35 mpg | 34 mpg | Up to 35 mpg |
The hybrid is the clear efficiency choice. A 35-mpg combined rating is strong for a three-row SUV and can make a major difference for families who drive frequently.
The gas Highlander uses more fuel but provides stronger towing capability. Buyers should decide between the two systems based on their real needs rather than choosing the hybrid automatically.
Neither version needs to be plugged in.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The Highlander has a well-equipped cabin with available premium features, although its third row is better suited to children and occasional adult use than frequent long-distance use.
Standard and available features include:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 8-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen
- Available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Heated front seats
- Available ventilated front seats
- Available heated second-row seats
- Available leather-trimmed seating
- Available panoramic moonroof
- Available JBL premium audio
- Available 10-inch head-up display
- Available Panoramic View Monitor
- Available hands-free power liftgate
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+
The first two rows are comfortable for most adults. The third row is useful for children, carpooling, and occasional guests, but it is tight for tall adults.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Length | 194.9 in. |
| Width | 76.0 in. |
| Height | 68.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 in. |
| Seating | Up to 8 passengers |
| Cargo space behind third row | Up to 16.0 cu. ft. |
| Cargo space behind second row | Up to 48.4 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | Up to 84.3 cu. ft. |
| Maximum towing capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs. |
The Highlander has enough space for daily family use, groceries, backpacks, and smaller strollers with all rows in use. However, cargo space behind the third row is modest.
Folding the third row creates a much more useful cargo area. Buyers who frequently carry seven or eight people and a large amount of luggage should look at the Toyota Grand Highlander or a minivan.
Exterior Design
The Highlander has a more traditional family-SUV shape than the sportier RAV4. Trim choice has a noticeable effect on its appearance.
- XLE: Clean, upscale family-SUV styling.
- XSE: Sportier grille, bumpers, lower spoiler, and 20-inch wheels.
- Limited: More premium exterior details and luxury-focused equipment.
- Platinum: Panoramic glass roof and the most upscale appearance.
The XSE is the visual standout, but the Hybrid XLE is the more sensible choice for buyers who care about fuel economy and overall ownership costs.
Safety Features and Ratings
Every Highlander includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with standard features such as:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Rearview camera
- Tire Pressure Monitor System
- Multiple airbags
Available safety and driver-assistance features include Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, Panoramic View Monitor, and a head-up display.
Check current IIHS and NHTSA ratings before purchase because scores and availability can change by model year and configuration.
Driver-assistance features can support the driver, but they cannot replace attention, safe speeds, or a proper following distance.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The Highlander has a strong long-term ownership case. Toyota has extensive experience with both hybrid systems and three-row SUVs, and the Highlander has an established record in the family-SUV market.
The hybrid is the lower-cost option for fuel, while the gas model is stronger for towing. Upper trims with larger wheels, panoramic roofs, premium audio, and more electronics may cost more to repair outside warranty.
| Coverage | Length |
| Basic warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Corrosion perforation warranty | 5 years / unlimited miles |
| Hybrid-related component coverage | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
| Hybrid battery warranty | 10 years / 150,000 miles |
| ToyotaCare scheduled maintenance | 2 years / 25,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 2 years / unlimited miles |
Used buyers should inspect tire wear, towing history, third-row seat operation, service records, and open recalls. Read our guide on how to check a car’s accident history before buying used.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Available hybrid system returns up to 35 mpg combined
- Gas engine can tow up to 5,000 pounds
- Seats up to eight people
- Available AWD
- Strong standard safety technology
- Comfortable first and second rows
- Available panoramic moonroof and premium audio
- Available 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster
- Smooth hybrid driving experience
- Good choice for families who do not need a full-size SUV
What We Don’t Like
- Third row is tight for adults
- Cargo space behind the third row is modest
- Hybrid costs more than the base gas model
- Gas version is not especially fuel-efficient
- Higher trims are expensive
- XSE’s larger wheels can make the ride firmer
- No plug-in hybrid option
- Grand Highlander offers more usable passenger and cargo space
Competitors
Consider these alternatives before choosing a Toyota Highlander:
- Toyota Grand Highlander: better for families who need a roomier third row and more cargo space.
- Toyota Sienna: better for buyers who prioritize passenger space, sliding doors, and family practicality.
- Honda Pilot: worth considering for families who want a more spacious third row and rugged styling.
- Kia Telluride: a strong option for a premium-feeling cabin and spacious seating.
- Hyundai Palisade: worth comparing for comfort, family features, and upscale equipment.
- Mazda CX-90: better for buyers who want stronger performance and a more premium driving character.
- Ford Explorer: worth considering for buyers who want more towing capability and a broader powertrain range.
Related WheelPedia Content
Before financing a Highlander, learn how car financing works and consider getting car loan preapproval before visiting a dealer.
If you are deciding whether to buy new or used, compare the benefits of a new car vs. used car and learn how to get the best car loan rate.
Should You Buy the Toyota Highlander?
Buy the Toyota Highlander if you want a comfortable three-row SUV with available hybrid efficiency, strong safety features, and easier day-to-day maneuverability than a larger SUV.
Choose the Hybrid XLE if fuel economy and family use matter most. Choose the gas XLE if you need the highest towing capacity.
Choose the XSE if you want sportier styling and sharper handling. Choose the Limited or Platinum if premium technology, leather seating, panoramic roof, and upgraded audio matter more than value.
Skip the Highlander if you regularly need an adult-friendly third row, large cargo space with all seats occupied, or a lower-priced family SUV.
FAQs
How much does the Toyota Highlander cost?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander starts from $46,270 MSRP in the US. The Hybrid Platinum starts from $55,675 MSRP, before destination, taxes, registration, options, and dealer fees.
Does the Toyota Highlander have three rows?
Yes. The Highlander has three rows and can seat up to eight passengers, depending on configuration.
Is the Toyota Highlander available as a hybrid?
Yes. The Highlander Hybrid is available in XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims.
What fuel economy does the Toyota Highlander Hybrid get?
The Highlander Hybrid XLE returns an EPA-estimated 35 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 35 mpg combined.
How much can the Toyota Highlander tow?
Properly equipped gas Highlander models can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Does the Toyota Highlander have all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive is available on gas and hybrid Highlander models.
How much cargo space does the Toyota Highlander have?
It has up to 16.0 cubic feet behind the third row, up to 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 84.3 cubic feet with the rear rows folded.
Is the Toyota Highlander good for large families?
It works well for families with children or occasional third-row passengers. Buyers who regularly carry adults in all three rows should consider the larger Toyota Grand Highlander.
Does the Toyota Highlander have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Every current Highlander includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Which Toyota Highlander trim is best?
The Hybrid XLE is the best choice for most buyers because it balances strong fuel economy, three-row seating, safety equipment, and price.
How long is the Highlander Hybrid battery warranty?
The Highlander Hybrid battery is covered for 10 years or 150,000 miles in the US.
Final Verdict
The Toyota Highlander is a strong three-row SUV for buyers who want Toyota’s hybrid efficiency, available AWD, comfortable front seating, and useful towing ability without moving to a larger vehicle.
Its biggest weakness is space behind the third row. It is practical for many families, but it is not the best choice for buyers who often carry adults in the third row or need substantial luggage room with every seat occupied.
For most buyers, the Highlander Hybrid XLE is the version to choose. It delivers the model’s best fuel economy and covers the needs of most families. Choose the gas XLE if towing capability is more important than fuel savings.
Prices, specifications, fuel-economy estimates, safety ratings, recalls, and feature availability can change by model year, trim, and market.