The Toyota Grand Highlander lineup has quickly become one of the most talked-about 3-row SUVs in the family segment. And while the spotlight usually goes to the 362-horsepower Hybrid Max model, there’s another version that promises something very different: efficiency.
Enter the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid — the middle child of the lineup, blending Toyota’s proven hybrid tech with a big, family-friendly SUV body. But does it deliver the right mix of performance and practicality, or is it simply too slow and too bland for its price? We’ve got the first official test results, and the verdict is… complicated.
The Powertrain: All About Efficiency
Under the hood, the standard Grand Highlander Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with Toyota’s familiar hybrid system. Combined output comes to 245 horsepower, channeled through a CVT automatic transmission to either the front or all four wheels, depending on the trim.
This setup is nearly identical to what you’ll find in the smaller Highlander Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid — and that’s part of the problem. The Grand Highlander is a big vehicle — tipping the scales at over 4,500 pounds — and that modest powertrain has a lot of mass to move.
In testing, the 0–60 mph sprint took 7.8 seconds, which isn’t terrible for a hybrid 3-row SUV, but it’s far from quick. The CVT doesn’t help, either; testers noted that the engine drones loudly under acceleration, giving the impression of working harder than it really is.
If you’re looking for an effortless powertrain or quick highway merging, this isn’t it.
The Good News: Space and Efficiency
Here’s where the Grand Highlander Hybrid shines — and it’s no small thing.
Inside, this SUV feels massive. There’s genuinely usable third-row space, something the regular Highlander can’t claim. Adults can actually fit in the back seats comfortably, and with the second and third rows folded down, cargo space rivals that of much larger vehicles.
Fuel efficiency is also outstanding for the segment. Testers saw real-world averages of around 31 MPG, even when loaded with passengers and gear. For context, that’s nearly 10 MPG better than most V6-powered competitors.
So while it’s not thrilling to drive, it’s incredibly practical to live with — a vehicle built for road trips, big families, and anyone who prioritizes comfort and efficiency over excitement.
The Hybrid Max Comparison
Of course, Toyota knows not every driver wants “adequate.” That’s why they built the Hybrid Max, a performance-oriented variant packing a 362-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter engine paired with electric motors and a traditional 6-speed automatic transmission.
The difference is night and day. The Hybrid Max hits 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, feels more refined under load, and delivers far more confidence when passing or towing. Even though it sacrifices some fuel economy (averaging around 26 MPG), it feels like a much more premium vehicle overall.
As Car and Driver put it, “We’d pay the extra money for the Max.”
That’s the core dilemma: the base hybrid offers efficiency and practicality, but it loses the smoothness, power, and engagement that make the Hybrid Max feel truly special.
Ride and Handling
On the road, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is tuned for comfort, not dynamics. Steering is light, body roll is noticeable, and the CVT’s response dulls any sense of urgency. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
This SUV is designed for long, relaxed drives. The suspension soaks up bumps beautifully, and cabin insulation keeps wind and road noise impressively low. Families will appreciate how quiet it feels at a cruise — even if acceleration occasionally sounds strained.
Toyota also nailed the ergonomics: every seat feels supportive, visibility is excellent, and controls are intuitive. Add in Toyota’s latest infotainment system and a slew of safety tech, and it’s clear this hybrid was engineered with families in mind.
The Verdict: Smart or Slow?
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is a classic case of priorities. If you want space, comfort, and excellent fuel economy, it absolutely delivers. Its 31 MPG real-world efficiency makes it one of the most economical 3-row SUVs on the market, and the practicality is hard to beat.
But if you value performance, refinement, or driving enjoyment, you’ll likely find it lacking. The sluggish acceleration and droning CVT undermine what could otherwise be an excellent all-around package.
In the end, this hybrid is a compromise — one that favors frugality over fun. For many families, that trade-off will make perfect sense. But if you can stretch your budget, the Hybrid Max is the one that feels truly worthy of the “Grand” badge.
