The Best-Selling Toyota Highlander

Toyota cars and SUVs continue to offer Americans of all classes some of the most reliable transportation on the market.  From their entry to America in 1957 to game-changing models like the Corolla and the Camry, Toyota is now the best selling car brand in America, usurping the throne from General Motors in 2021. While its little brother the RAV4 is America’s best-selling SUV, the Highlander offers more space, with both the Highlander and Grand Highlander option, the latter of which is even larger. The Highlander is due for a redesign, though details have yet to be released; it is likely to fall for the 2026 model year.

Highlander comes with a turbocharged engine that has a none-too-shabby 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.  Its eight speed automatic transmission ensures excellent freeway gas mileage, getting up to 29 MPG highway and 25 MPG combined.  It has either front or all wheel drive depending on your need to traverse winter-covered roads or sunny pavement in Florida. 

An optional Hybrid Max powertrain propels the Highlander along even faster than the regular model, with a combined 362 horsepower. Highlander Hybrid starts at $46,320 msrp and gets 36mpg combined MPG, an insane fuel economy rating for a 3-row SUV. Right now Toyota is offering attractive lease deals on Highlander Hybrid.

The “regular” Highlander is a mid-size SUV with a spacious and quiet cabin. It comes in several trims, including LE ($40,320 msrp), XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum ($52,725 msrp). Some standard features include Toyota Safety Sense, a panoramic view monitor, eight inch stereo, power driver’s seat, three-zone climate control, leather-trimmed shift knob and steering wheel, a 7 inch LCD info display, and a backup camera. The XLE trim adds a hands-free power liftgate, leather-trimmed seats, and a wireless charging pad. Highlander Hybrid has all the same trims as well as the Nightshade trim ($47,320 msrp), which is not available on the regular Highlander.

Practicality is where the Highlander quietly earns its keep. With the third row folded, cargo space opens up for long boxes or a week’s shopping; drop the second row and you have the flat load floor that makes DIY runs and bike hauling easy. Families who rotate between people and gear will appreciate the second-row choices—bench for eight-up duty or captain’s chairs for easier walk-through—and the way the third row folds and rises without drama. The hybrid models add efficiency without sacrificing passenger or cargo room because the battery sits under the second row, not in the boot.

Toyota currently has a number of great incentives to move units of the Highlander as the 2025 model year concludes.  These include 4.75% APR for up to 60 months on 2025 Highlander, a stellar interest rate, or 5.75% APR for 72 months. There are also lease deals of $499/month for 36 months with $3,999 down at signing on Highlander XLE. Lastly Toyota has rebates available for college students and military members. Be sure to consult local dealers for current offers on Highlander and Grand Highlander models as incentives do vary by region. Cast a wide net using the dealer inventory tool and compare multiple stores within a reasonable driving radius; despite national promotions, not all dealers price the same, and some will be more aggressive on in-stock colors or option packages. Ask every store for an out-the-door price that includes taxes and fees, and be selective about add-ons like paint protection, VIN etching, maintenance packages, and extra alarm systems—polite declines on extras can save hundreds or even thousands.

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