The Definitive Guide to the Toyota Highlander's Specs and Features: A Deep Dive
The Toyota Highlander has long set the benchmark for reliability and family utility in the three-row mid-size SUV segment. Updated in recent model years to feature a punchy new engine and advanced safety tech, the Highlander continues to be a top contender for modern families.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the key specifications—from engine power and spacious dimensions to cutting-edge safety and connectivity features—making it easy for shoppers to understand what makes the Highlander a smart choice.
1. Performance and Powertrain: Engine Capacity, Horsepower, Torque, and Fuel Type
Toyota transitioned the Highlander away from the venerable V6 engine to a more efficient and torque-rich turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A highly efficient Hybrid option also remains a core offering.
Powertrain Type
Engine Capacity & Configuration
Horsepower (HP)
Torque (lb-ft)
Fuel Type
Key Feature
Standard Gasoline
2.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder
265 hp
310 lb-ft
Regular Unleaded
High torque at low RPM
Hybrid
2.5L 4-Cylinder + Electric Motors
243 combined net hp
175 lb-ft (engine)
Regular Unleaded
Exceptional Fuel Economy
Standard Engine: The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While it has slightly less horsepower than the old V6, its 310 lb-ft of torque is a significant boost, making acceleration smoother and improving towing performance up to 5,000 pounds.
Hybrid Efficiency: The Highlander Hybrid, paired with an Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT), delivers outstanding fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 36 combined MPG in FWD models. The Hybrid is perfect for maximizing efficiency on city commutes and long trips.
Drivetrain Options: Both the standard and hybrid models are available in both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations.
2. Dimensions and Space: Seating, Boot Capacity, and Comfort
The Highlander is designed as a true people-hauler, offering generous passenger space and flexible cargo configurations across three rows.
Seating and Passenger Space
The Highlander offers seating for either seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim and the second-row configuration (bench seat for eight, or Captain's Chairs for seven).
First and Second Row Comfort: The first two rows are known for being exceptionally comfortable and spacious, offering excellent headroom and legroom (over 41 inches of legroom in the second row).
Third Row: Consistent with the mid-size segment, the third row (legroom around 27.7 inches) is best suited for children or for adults on short trips, but it provides the essential flexibility families need.
Cargo and Boot Capacity
The Highlander shines with its versatile cargo space, thanks to 60/40 split-folding second and third-row seats.
Behind Third Row (Boot Capacity): 16.0 cubic feet (cu. ft.)
Behind Second Row: 48.4 cu. ft.
Maximum Cargo Volume (Seats Folded): 84.3 cu. ft.
The available hands-free power liftgate makes loading and unloading luggage or shopping effortless.
3. Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Safety is a cornerstone of the Toyota brand, and the Highlander is equipped with one of the industry's most respected safety packages.
Toyota Safety Sense™ Suite
All Highlander models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS):
Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Helps detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists and can provide automatic braking assistance if a collision is imminent.
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): Maintains a pre-set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead.
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA): Provides an alert if lane departure is detected and can gently provide corrective steering if necessary.
Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Keeps the vehicle centered in the lane when DRCC is activated.
Automatic High Beams (AHB) and Road Sign Assist (RSA).
Passive Safety and Crash Ratings
Airbags: The Highlander features an extensive 8-airbag system, including driver and front-passenger seat-cushion airbags, a driver knee airbag, and curtain shield airbags covering all three rows.
Crash Test Ratings: The Toyota Highlander consistently receives high marks from independent safety organizations:
NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): Typically earns a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating.
IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): Often named a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ for its excellent crashworthiness results ("Good" ratings across various tests) and superior front crash prevention systems.
4. Technology, Infotainment, and Connectivity
The modern Highlander offers an array of technological features focused on convenience, entertainment, and driver awareness.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The system is centered around the Toyota Audio Multimedia platform, which supports wireless connectivity.
Standard Touchscreen: 8-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
Available Premium Touchscreen: A massive 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia display is available on higher trims (Limited and Platinum), providing stunning clarity and a more expansive view for navigation and entertainment.
Connectivity: Features include a built-in Wi-Fi Connect hotspot (4G capability for up to five devices), multiple USB-A and USB-C ports throughout the cabin, and available wireless smartphone charging.
Convenience Features
Driver Easy Speak: A helpful available feature that uses a built-in microphone to project the driver's voice through the rear speakers, making it easier to communicate with third-row passengers without shouting.
Panoramic View Monitor (PVM): Provides a 360-degree bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, invaluable for parking and maneuvering tight spaces.
Digital Rearview Mirror: Available on top trims, this mirror uses a camera feed to provide a wider, less obstructed view of the area behind the vehicle, especially useful when the cargo area is fully loaded.
Highlander vs. The Competition
The Toyota Highlander distinguishes itself by offering a unique balance. While some rivals may offer more third-row space, few can match the Highlander's pairing of the robust Toyota Safety Sense suite with its supremely reliable Hybrid powertrain option. It’s a compelling choice for families seeking long-term value, excellent fuel economy, and comprehensive safety features.
Toyota Highlander
Highlander specs
2024 Toyota Highlander
2025 Toyota Highlander
Highlander dimensions
Highlander towing capacity
Highlander 2.4L Turbo engine
Highlander 310 lb-ft torque
Highlander Hybrid MPG
Highlander fuel economy 36 MPG
Highlander AWD vs FWD
Highlander safety rating
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+
Highlander cargo space cubic feet
Highlander third row legroom
Highlander seating capacity (or 7 vs 8 passengers)
Highlander IIHS rating
Highlander 12.3-inch display
Highlander Driver Easy Speak
Highlander Digital Rearview Mirror
Highlander Panoramic View Monitor (PVM)
Highlander connectivity features
