What are the CO2 emissions of a Toyota Highlander?

For recent Highlander configurations, gasoline models typically emit about 342–370 g/mi (212–230 g/km) of CO2 on the EPA Combined cycle, while the Highlander Hybrid emits about 247–254 g/mi (153–158 g/km). Emissions vary by year, trim, drivetrain, and testing cycle.

CO2 Emission Ranges by Highlander Variant

The figures below reflect typical U.S. EPA estimates for common configurations in recent model years. Emissions are shown in both grams per mile (g/mi) and grams per kilometer (g/km) to aid comparison.

Gasoline Highlander (non-hybrid) — 2.4L Turbo (FWD/AWD)

• EPA Combined fuel economy: approximately 24–26 mpg, depending on drivetrain (FWD typically higher than AWD).


• Estimated CO2 emissions: roughly 342–370 g/mi (212–230 g/km).

Gasoline-only Highlanders tend to produce more CO2 per mile than the hybrid variant, with drivetrain choice helping to shift efficiency slightly.

Hybrid Highlander — 2.5L Hybrid

• EPA Combined fuel economy: about 35–36 mpg.


• Estimated CO2 emissions: roughly 247–254 g/mi (153–158 g/km).

The hybrid variant reduces CO2 emissions significantly compared with the gasoline-only model, thanks to its electric propulsion and regenerative braking.

Notes on Testing Standards and Regional Differences

Emissions figures vary by region due to different testing cycles. In the United States, EPA estimates are most commonly cited. In Europe and other markets, WLTP (or local cycles) can yield higher or lower g/km values for the same vehicle configuration. Real-world driving, tire choice, climate control use, and cargo/passenger load can also affect actual emissions relative to official estimates.

Why Emissions Vary Across Model Years

Subtle changes in engine tuning, hybrid battery efficiency, weight, and aerodynamics across model years can shift EPA numbers. Toyota has updated both the gasoline and hybrid powertrains over time, which means a 2020 Highlander may have slightly different CO2 figures than a 2024 or 2025 model even if the configuration appears similar on paper.

Summary

The Toyota Highlander’s CO2 emissions depend heavily on the powertrain. Gasoline-only models run roughly in the low 340s to high 360s g/mi (about 212–230 g/km), while the Highlander Hybrid drops to about 247–254 g/mi (around 153–158 g/km). Drivetrain, model year, and testing cycle all influence the exact numbers, and real-world results may vary with driving conditions and load.

What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?

Years to avoid in the Toyota Highlander include 2003, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and technology glitches. Other problematic years to consider are 2001-2007 (engine and climate control issues) and 2016-2019 (varying issues including potential oil leaks in some models).
 
This video discusses problems with the Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2025, including paint issues: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Toyota Highlander years to avoid

• 2001–2007: Prone to engine overheating, head gasket failures, and climate control issues like AC compressor and blower motor problems. 
• 2003: A big year for issues, particularly engine oil sludge buildup and premature transmission wear, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2008: A redesigned model that experienced oil cooler line leaks, which can cause engine damage if not addressed, and lower-quality interior components. 
• 2014: A recall was issued for the second-row seat assembly that may not lock correctly into the seat track, and there were also reports of issues that might be linked to the transmission, says Clutch and Reddit users. 
• 2015: Experienced growing pains from its redesign, with various reports of growing issues, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2020: Experienced early transmission and software problems, say Clutch and Reddit users. 

You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 51sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025

What is the most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?

The most common problem with the Toyota Highlander is a major oil leak and loss of oil pressure caused by a faulty VVT-i oil line. Other frequent issues include infrequent but noticeable interior rattles, especially from the moonroof or dashboard, and problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission in 2017-2019 models, leading to noises, delayed shifting, and failure. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with Toyota Highlander, including the 8-speed transmission issue: 59sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025
Most common problems

• VVT-i oil line rupture: This is the most frequent and serious issue, where the oil line bursts, causing a massive oil leak that can lead to complete engine failure if the vehicle is driven while the low oil pressure light is on. A revised part has been issued, but it has also been reported to have the same problem. 
• Interior rattles and noises: Many owners report various rattles and squeaks coming from the interior, such as the moonroof, dashboard, or infotainment screen, particularly on bumpy roads or in cold weather. 
• 8-speed automatic transmission: Specific models, particularly the 2017–2019 Highlanders, have been associated with issues such as a whining noise, delayed shifts, hard shifts, and even complete failure. 
• Airbag sensor failure: Some models have a faulty front passenger airbag sensor that can short-circuit, preventing the airbag from deploying correctly. 

Other potential issues

• Air and water leaks: Some model years have reported issues with plugged sunroof drain lines, leading to water leaks inside the vehicle. 
• Check engine light: This can be caused by various issues, such as the hose coming off the air filter housing or a failed oxygen sensor. 
• Brake issues: Some models have reported premature wear of brake pads and rotors, or a vibrating sensation when braking. 

This video discusses problems with the 8-speed transmission in the 2017-2019 Toyota Highlander: 58sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jul 31, 2021

Are Toyota Highlanders targets for catalytic converter theft?

Protect your Toyota Highlander Hybrid (2020-2026) from catalytic converter theft with our Cat Shield. With its popularity and accessible undercarriage, the Highlander Hybrid can be a target for thieves.

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.