In the mid-size three-row SUV segment, Toyota made a statement with the Grand Highlander. It inserted itself into the chat by demonstrating how spacious its third-row seating area, along with its extraordinary cabin volume.
What it also did was to show that you do not need a larger SUV to haul up to eight people and their things around town – or out on the highway.
After reviewing two of the most spacious mid-size SUVs in the marketplace, we received a 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander for a reference check. Not just for us, but for you. 
We should note that the larger Grand Highlander has outsold its slightly smaller namesake SUV at a ratio of almost 2:1. Consumers are finding the larger and more upright three-row version more to their liking.
The design continues with a bold, upright front end, extending a profile that includes a large side window profile and longer roofline to accommodate more cabin space. There is a set of horizontal LED taillights and a handsome tailgate to finish up the Toyota Grand Highlander’s exterior look.
Our Platinum tester came with a set of 20-inch alloy wheels, a standard panoramic roof, running boards, and cross bars for the roof rack. 
Stepping inside, you are greeted by a digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster that is loaded with plenty of information for the driver. This is augmented by a 10-inch head-up display that is clear for the driver to keep their eyes on the road. On top of the center stack is a large 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring and device charging. The shift-by-wire shifter is like what we are seeing in the newest Toyota vehicles, as are all of the controls found throughout the cabin.
The seats on this Platinum tester are upholstered in leather and Ultrasuede upholstery. The front seats are large with some comfort and support. The second-row captain’s chairs can be adjusted for rake and recline with a lot of options for legroom. There is a mini console in0bnetween these searts. The third row is easily accessible with the sliding mechanism on the side of the second-row seat’s cushion. One of the big selling points of the Grand Highlander is the room in the third row that can accommodate adults. In short, yes, they can fit adults back there. 
Space behind the third row is as generous 20.6 cubic feet. Fold down the third row, and that space expands to 57.9 cubic feet of space behind the second row. If you drop the second and third rows of seats, you can stow a maximum of 97.5 cubic feet.
This tester is also powered by the Hybrid MAX driveline. It combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor, a six-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. In all, it is rated for 362 total net horsepower.
The result is a very powerful driveline that responds well in traffic. It is also quiet and smooth. As for fuel economy, we averaged 25.5 MPG in our driving loop. 
The ride quality was good overall, absorbing everything along the way. The Grand Highlander was engineered to keep families comfortable and happy on the road. Handling is a bit on the soft side, but the Grand Highlander felt controlled in evasive maneuvers.
The steering system was solid, offering a good turning radius for a vehicle of its size. On-center feel was fine overall. The brakes worked quite well. Pedal feel was fine, and response to the wheels yielded good stops in normal and panic situations.
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander lineup consists of a choice of eleven trim levels, including four hybrids and two models with the Hybrid MAX driveline. Pricing starts at $40,860. Our Platinum AWD tester with the Hybrid MAX driveline came with a sticker price of $63,072.
There is now a proliferation of larger mid-size SUV with full-size space today. However, the competition is tough, no matter what size your interior is. The competition includes the Chevrolet Traverse and Tahoe, GMC Acadia and Yukon, Ford Explorer and Expedition, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Grand Wagoneer, Volkswagen Atlas, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Subaru Ascent, Nissan Pathfinder and Armada, Mazda CX-90, Honda Pilot, and the Toyota Sequoia.
As consumers are looking for more space without the largess of a large SUV, Toyota still offers one that is accommodating with good driving manners. If the Toyota Grand Highlander seems right for you, then you made a very good choice.
