Vehicle Overview
The Toyota Highlander, known as the Kluger in Japan and Australia since 2000, represents Toyota’s flagship family SUV offering above the RAV4.
After decades of global success, the Highlander finally arrived in the UK and Europe in 2021, bringing Toyota’s proven self-charging hybrid technology, seven-seat practicality, and premium comfort to the mid-size SUV market.
For 2025, the Highlander continues as a refined, efficient, and reliable seven-seater, offering an ideal blend of SUV versatility, luxury comfort, and hybrid economy. Competing with models like the Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento, and Skoda Kodiaq, it’s one of the most complete family SUVs available — particularly for those who want hybrid power without plug-in hassle.
Key Specifications (2025 Toyota Highlander 2.5 Hybrid AWD-i)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Platform | Toyota GA-K (shared with RAV4 and Lexus RX) |
| Powertrain | 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol hybrid (self-charging) |
| Combined Power Output | 248 hp (184 kW) |
| Torque | 239 Nm (engine) + 270 Nm (electric motors) |
| Transmission | e-CVT automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD-i) |
| 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) | 8.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 112 mph (180 km/h) |
| Battery Type | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Fuel Economy (WLTP) | Up to 39.2 mpg (6.0 L/100 km) |
| CO₂ Emissions (WLTP) | 159–163 g/km |
| Length / Width / Height | 4,966 mm / 1,930 mm / 1,755 mm |
| Boot Capacity | 332 L (behind 3rd row) / 865 L (5-seat) / 1,909 L (max) |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 kg (braked) |
Exterior Design
The Toyota Highlander combines American SUV proportions with European sophistication. It’s muscular yet elegant, giving it strong road presence without looking overbearing.
Design highlights
Bold trapezoidal front grille with chrome accents
Sleek LED headlights and signature DRLs
Wide stance with sculpted body lines
Subtle chrome detailing and silver skid plates
Integrated roof rails and rear spoiler
LED taillights with horizontal design
18- or 20-inch alloy wheels (depending on trim)
Panoramic sunroof (Excel Premium)
It’s a handsome, understated SUV that feels upmarket yet approachable — very much Toyota’s take on luxury utility.
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Step inside, and the Highlander’s interior immediately conveys comfort, quality, and spaciousness. Toyota has carefully balanced practicality with near-premium finishes.
Interior highlights
Seven-seat configuration (2+3+2)
8-inch or 12.3-inch central touchscreen (depending on trim)
Digital driver display and head-up display
Soft-touch dashboard and leather upholstery
Heated and ventilated front seats
Heated second-row seats (top trims)
Tri-zone automatic climate control
Large panoramic roof for an airy cabin
| Ample storage | deep centre console and wide door bins |
Power-adjustable front seats with memory function
It’s a comfortable, quiet, and family-friendly space, easily accommodating adults in all three rows for long journeys.
Features & Infotainment
The 2025 Highlander is equipped with Toyota’s latest Smart Connect+ infotainment system, combining intuitive tech and connectivity.
12.3-inch HD central touchscreen (Excel Premium)
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Integrated cloud navigation with real-time traffic
Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates
Voice command (“Hey Toyota”)
11-speaker JBL Premium Sound System (top trims)
Wireless phone charging + USB-C ports for all rows
Digital key support via smartphone app
Reversing camera with 360° view monitor
Everything feels modern and well-integrated, ensuring even large families stay connected and entertained on the go.
Safety & Ratings
As expected, the Highlander offers Toyota’s comprehensive Safety Sense suite as standard — earning 5 stars from Euro NCAP for safety.
Key features include
Pre-Collision System with pedestrian & cyclist detection
Adaptive Cruise Control (full-range)
Lane Tracing Assist & Lane Departure Alert
Road Sign Recognition
Blind Spot Monitor & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Automatic High Beam Assist
Safe Exit Assist
Parking sensors with automatic braking
Seven airbags and ISOFIX points (2nd & 3rd rows)
With structural strength and active systems working in harmony, the Highlander is one of the safest seven-seat SUVs you can buy.
Driving Performance
The Highlander may be large, but it’s impressively composed and refined on the road. The hybrid system ensures smooth, quiet operation and effortless torque delivery.
Driving impressions
Hybrid system seamlessly switches between petrol and electric modes
Strong mid-range torque for overtaking and motorway cruising
e-CVT gearbox prioritizes smoothness over aggression
AWD-i system adds confidence in poor weather and light off-road use
Comfort-tuned suspension soaks up bumps and rough surfaces
Excellent ride refinement thanks to acoustic glass and sound insulation
While not sporty, the Highlander offers calm, effortless progress, ideal for long journeys and family life.
Fuel Efficiency / Hybrid System
Toyota’s self-charging hybrid system ensures low running costs without needing external charging.
| Combined fuel economy | up to 39 mpg (WLTP) |
CO₂ emissions: 159–163 g/km
| Hybrid battery type | Nickel-metal hydride (under rear seats) |
| Electric-only driving | Up to ~1.2 miles in low-speed conditions |
No plugging in required — regenerates during braking and coasting
For a seven-seat AWD SUV, the Highlander’s economy is remarkably efficient and ideal for family or business use.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
The Highlander is built to handle everything from school runs to road trips in comfort.
Seven seats standard across all trims
Sliding and reclining second row
Easy-fold third-row seats (50:50 split)
Boot space
332 L (7 seats up)
865 L (5 seats up)
1,909 L (2 seats up)
Power tailgate (hands-free on top trims)
2,000 kg towing capacity
Plenty of cupholders and USB ports in all rows
It’s one of the most spacious and versatile hybrid SUVs in its class.
Warranty & Maintenance
| Vehicle warranty | 3 years / 60,000 miles (extendable to 10 years with Toyota Relax servicing) |
| Hybrid battery warranty | 5 years / 100,000 miles (extendable to 10 years) |
| Service interval | Every 12 months or 10,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 1 year included |
Toyota’s renowned durability and extended warranty program give total peace of mind for long-term ownership.
Price & Value for Money
| Trim | Powertrain | Starting Price (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Excel | 2.5 Hybrid AWD-i | ~£53,500 |
| Excel Premium | 2.5 Hybrid AWD-i | ~£56,500 |
While the Highlander sits at the upper end of Toyota’s range, it offers luxury SUV comfort, family space, and hybrid efficiency — for less than comparable plug-in or diesel rivals.
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Drivetrain | Economy | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander 2.5 Hybrid | Full Hybrid | AWD | 39 mpg | £54k |
| Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid | Full Hybrid | AWD | 38 mpg | £51k |
| Kia Sorento Hybrid | Full Hybrid | AWD | 38 mpg | £50k |
| Skoda Kodiaq 2.0 TSI | Petrol | AWD | 30 mpg | £47k |
The Highlander delivers better refinement and reliability than most, backed by Toyota’s unbeatable hybrid track record.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Smooth, quiet, and efficient hybrid system
Spacious 7-seat layout with high-quality interior
Excellent ride comfort and refinement
Standard AWD and generous equipment
Toyota’s legendary reliability and 10-year warranty potential
Cons
High price compared to smaller SUVs
Average boot space with 7 seats up
No diesel or plug-in hybrid options
⭐ Overall Rating: ★★★★★ (4.7 / 5)
Final Verdict
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is one of the best family-oriented hybrid SUVs you can buy. It delivers comfort, safety, space, and hybrid efficiency in a smooth, refined package that feels premium without being flashy.
For drivers seeking a reliable, practical, and low-emission seven-seater that’s easy to own and drive, the Highlander stands out as an exceptional choice — a hybrid that truly replaces the diesel SUV.
| Who it’s for | Large families and business users seeking a refined, fuel-efficient, and dependable hybrid SUV with seven-seat versatility. |
Affiliate CTA
Drive hybrid luxury, family-sized.
👉 Compare Toyota Highlander lease, finance, and insurance offers near you — find the best 2025 deals today.
That will help it rank for key searches like “Toyota Highlander hybrid review 2025,” “best 7-seater hybrid SUV,” and “Toyota Highlander vs Kia Sorento.”
Pros & cons
- Raised driving position and practical cabin layout
- Useful family-friendly versatility
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The Highlander is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting a raised driving position and useful family practicality. |
| Body style | Suv/Crossover |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Highlander good for UK roads?
Should I buy new or used?
What should I check before ordering?
Is it suitable for families?
SEO details
Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.