Do Toyota Highlanders get good gas mileage?

Yes—depending on powertrain, Highlanders can be quite fuel-efficient for a three-row SUV. The Hybrid version typically delivers around 35–36 mpg combined, while gasoline-only versions with the 2.4-liter turbo are in the low-to-mid 20s combined, with highway mileage generally better for front-wheel-drive variants.

This article examines current EPA estimates for the latest Highlander lineup, what real-world drivers report, and practical tips to maximize efficiency across the range as models from 2023 through 2025 evolve.

EPA ratings by powertrain

Official fuel economy figures vary by drivetrain and wheel size. Here are the typical EPA estimates for recent Highlander models.

Gasoline-only models (2.4L turbo)

The turbocharged four-cylinder is the standard non-hybrid option, offering strong performance with a modest mileage penalty compared with hybrids.

• Front-wheel drive (FWD): 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined


• All-wheel drive (AWD): 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined

Wheel size and trim can influence efficiency slightly, with larger wheels typically reducing highway mpg a bit.

Hybrid models (2.5L hybrid)

The Highlander Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors for notably better efficiency, especially in urban driving.

• Front-wheel drive (FWD): 36 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 36 mpg combined


• All-wheel drive (AWD): 35 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 35 mpg combined

Real-world mileage for hybrids often lands in the mid-30s, with highway efficiency sometimes higher in favorable conditions.

Real-world mileage and factors that affect it

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but actual fuel economy depends on many factors, including driving style, cargo load, weather, and road conditions. Hybrids tend to perform best in mixed driving that includes regular stops and starts, while highway-focused trips may reduce the gap between gas and hybrid versions.

Several variables can influence MPG across the Highlander lineup, from tire pressure to roof rack use and tire tread wear.

Maximizing mileage in a Highlander

Before the list below, drivers can adopt practical habits to squeeze more miles per gallon from their Highlander, particularly for highway trips or frequent city commuting.

• Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and rotate regularly to maintain efficient rolling resistance.


• Reduce aerodynamic drag: remove roof racks or carriers when not in use.


• Use Eco or similar fuel-saving modes and maintain a steady driving pace with gradual throttle input.


• Plan smooth, steady highway cruises with cruise control where appropriate to minimize speed fluctuations.


• Perform regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and air-filter replacements, to maintain engine efficiency.


• Lighten the load: remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle and avoid carrying excess cargo.

Implementing these practices can help you approach or exceed EPA estimates, particularly in hybrid configurations where efficiency is most sensitive to driving behavior and loads.

Summary

The Toyota Highlander offers strong mileage within its class, with the Hybrid version delivering the best fuel economy for everyday driving. Gasoline-only models provide respectable efficiency for a capable three-row SUV, especially on highway trips with a front-drive configuration. For buyers prioritizing fuel economy, the Highlander Hybrid is the clear leader, while non-hybrid variants remain viable with mindful driving and configuration choices.

Do Toyota highlanders use a lot of gas?

In our highway fuel-economy test, which we run at a steady 75 mph, the Grand Highlander averaged 24 mpg versus the EPA's 27-mpg figure.

What are the negatives of the Toyota Highlander?

Common cons for the Toyota Highlander include a tight third-row seat and limited cargo space behind it, an underpowered base hybrid engine that can feel strained, a coarse engine sound during acceleration, and interior materials that may not feel premium compared to some rivals. Older models may have issues with transmissions or power liftgates, and some owners report concerns with handling or specific technology features like the infotainment system. 
This video discusses some cons of the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander: 55sMotorNationYouTube · Jul 13, 2025
Space and utility

• Tight third row: The third-row seat is best suited for children, with limited legroom and difficult access. 
• Limited cargo space: The area behind the third row is small, and it may be a challenge to haul many items. 
• Poor off-road capability: It is not designed for rugged off-roading and has limited ground clearance. 

Performance

• Underpowered base hybrid: The base hybrid powertrain, prioritizing fuel efficiency, can feel sluggish, especially when fully loaded or on the highway. 
• Coarse engine noise: The engine can sound loud and unrefined when accelerating hard. 
• Sloppy handling: Some owners describe the rear as feeling sloppy, especially when the vehicle is not carrying weight. 
• Transmission issues: Certain older model years (e.g., 2017-2020) have been reported to have transmission problems. 

Interior and technology

• Interior quality: Higher trims may still feature noticeable hard plastics, and the overall interior feel may not be as upscale as some competitors at a similar price point. 
• Infotainment issues: Some owners report problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing or connectivity issues with Bluetooth. 

Other potential drawbacks

• High price: Some models, particularly the gas-only version, have a high base price compared to competitors. 
• Power liftgate problems: A specific defect involving the rear power liftgate has been reported in several model years. 
• Visibility issues: Some owners report that the side mirrors create blind spots. 

This video shares some of the things the creator dislikes about the Toyota Highlander Hybrid: 1mMotorNationYouTube · Oct 27, 2025

Is the Toyota Highlander fuel efficient?

Yes, Toyota Highlanders are considered good on gas, especially the hybrid models, which are among the most fuel-efficient options in their class. Gas models are also reasonably efficient for a three-row SUV, with modern versions achieving an EPA-estimated 29 mpg on the highway. 
Fuel economy breakdown

• Gasoline models: The standard gas-powered Highlander typically gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, with a combined rating around 24 mpg. 
• Hybrid models: The Highlander Hybrid is significantly more fuel-efficient, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. 
• Grand Highlander: The larger Grand Highlander offers similar, though slightly lower, fuel economy for its gasoline versions (e.g., 21/28/24 mpg city/highway/combined for FWD models), while its hybrid versions are highly efficient (e.g., 37/34/36 mpg city/highway/combined for FWD). 

Factors that influence fuel economy

• Driving habits: Smooth acceleration and braking can help you achieve better gas mileage. 
• Tire pressure: Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for fuel efficiency. 
• Weather: Fuel economy can be lower in cold weather, as engines are less efficient and electric vehicles may use more power to heat their batteries. 
• Maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule can ensure your vehicle runs as efficiently as possible. 

What is the lawsuit against the Toyota Highlander?

Recent and ongoing lawsuits involving the Toyota Highlander address issues such as faulty door lock actuators, a potential transmission defect in certain models, and a claim that 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids have fuel tanks that do not fill completely. Other recent lawsuits include an investigation into defective power liftgates and a separate class action settlement for a Bluetooth echo defect that affected some Highlanders. 
Current and recent lawsuits

• Door Lock Actuators: A class action lawsuit was filed because many Toyota models, including the Highlander, reportedly have defective door lock actuators that may fail to engage properly. The lawsuit claims owners have been charged for repeated replacements, which Toyota allegedly considered "wear and tear" items. 
• Transmission Defect: Lawsuits allege that certain Highlander models (2017-2022) equipped with the UA80 automatic transmission have a defect that can cause whining, erratic shifting, and premature failure. A Customer Support Program (CSP ZJC) was created but only covers a limited number of vehicles, according to Change.org. 
• Fuel Tank Defect: A class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids, claiming a defective fuel tank vent causes it to not fill to its capacity. 
• Power Liftgate Defect: Some Highlander models (XU20, XU40, XU50, and Highlander Hybrid MHU28) are reportedly affected by a power liftgate defect that can lead to costly repairs, with the lawsuit alleging Toyota knew about the issue but did not issue a recall or warning. 
• Bluetooth Echo Defect: A class action lawsuit over a Bluetooth defect that caused an echo on calls in certain Toyota models, including the Highlander, resulted in a settlement, notes this article from Unión Rayo and ClassAction.org. 

How to proceed

• Identify your vehicle's details: Determine if your Highlander is included in any of these lawsuits by checking its model year, VIN, and the specific defect alleged.
• Gather evidence: Collect any repair invoices, service records, or documentation related to the defect.
• Contact an attorney: Speak to a lawyer who specializes in consumer or automotive class action lawsuits to understand your options and how you may be affected by an ongoing investigation or settlement. 
• Check settlement websites: Visit official settlement websites if they are available for a specific lawsuit, as they often provide important information and instructions for potential claimants.