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What is the EPA rating for Toyota Highlander?

The Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV known for its reliability, comfort, and versatility. One of the key factors many buyers consider when choosing a vehicle is its fuel efficiency, as measured by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In this article, we’ll explore the EPA ratings for the Toyota Highlander, including its various configurations and what they mean for your driving experience.


Understanding EPA Ratings


The EPA rating is a standardized measure of a vehicle's fuel efficiency, expressed in miles per gallon (MPG). It includes three key metrics:



  • City MPG: The fuel efficiency when driving in stop-and-go traffic.

  • Highway MPG: The fuel efficiency during steady-speed highway driving.

  • Combined MPG: A weighted average of city and highway MPG, providing an overall efficiency estimate.


These ratings help consumers compare vehicles and make informed decisions based on their driving habits and fuel economy preferences.


EPA Ratings for the 2025 Toyota Highlander


The Toyota Highlander comes in several configurations, including gas-only and hybrid models. Each configuration has its own EPA rating:



  • Gasoline Models: The 2025 Toyota Highlander with a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 22 MPG city, 29 MPG highway, and 25 MPG combined.

  • Hybrid Models: The 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, equipped with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor, offers an impressive EPA-estimated 36 MPG city, 35 MPG highway, and 36 MPG combined.


These ratings make the hybrid model an excellent choice for drivers looking to maximize fuel efficiency, especially for city driving.


Factors That Affect Real-World Fuel Efficiency


While EPA ratings provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel efficiency can vary based on several factors:



  • Driving Habits: Aggressive acceleration and braking can reduce fuel efficiency.

  • Load and Cargo: Carrying heavy loads or towing can decrease MPG.

  • Weather Conditions: Extreme temperatures and wind resistance can impact fuel economy.

  • Maintenance: Proper tire inflation, regular oil changes, and engine tune-ups help maintain optimal efficiency.


By adopting fuel-efficient driving practices and maintaining your vehicle, you can get closer to the EPA-estimated ratings.


Conclusion


The Toyota Highlander offers competitive EPA ratings, with the hybrid model standing out for its exceptional fuel efficiency. Whether you prioritize power or eco-friendliness, the Highlander has a configuration to suit your needs. If you’re considering a Highlander or need advice on maintaining your vehicle for optimal performance, feel free to reach out to Kevin’s Autos for expert guidance and service!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get better gas mileage in my Toyota Highlander?


Adopt Better Driving Techniques to Conserve Fuel

  1. Always stick to the speed limit.
  2. Maintain a steady speed while driving.
  3. Ensure you accelerate in a controlled manner.
  4. Remove any unnecessary weight or additional cargo.
  5. Avoid idling your car for extended periods.



What is the best year for a Highlander?


A: The best years for the Toyota Highlander, according to the above guide, include the 2004, 2005, and 2007 models from the first generation and the 2017-2019 models from the third generation. These years have shown high reliability, minimal complaints, and good owner satisfaction ratings.



How much will the 2024 Highlander cost?


Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2024 Toyota Highlander starts at $40,515 and goes up to $50,970 depending on the trim and options.



What are the disadvantages of the Highlander?


Lows Limited third-row space, small cargo capacity behind third row, yawn-inducing driving dynamics. Verdict The Highlander has plenty of family appeal for its fuel efficiency and numerous safety features, but rivals offer more third-row space, cargo room, and driving enjoyment.



Is the Toyota Highlander a reliable car?


The Toyota Highlander Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 7th out of 26 for midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $489 which means it has lower than average ownership costs.



What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?


Q: What Toyota Highlander years should I avoid in the used car market? A: You should consider avoiding the Toyota Highlander from the years 2003, 2008, 2014, and 2015. These models have been identified as having more significant issues than other years.



Does the Toyota Highlander Hybrid really get 35 MPG?


Fuel Economy. The 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of the most efficient (non-electric) 3-row SUVs you can buy. It is rated at 35 mpg combined across the board.



Is the Toyota Highlander fuel efficient?


The Highlander has more than 510 miles of maximum range on one full tank of gas. For each trim level that uses FWD, they return an estimated EPA of 29 highway MPG and 21 city MPG. If you prefer the AWD setup, it returns 20mpg in the city, 27 highway MPG, for 23mpg combined.



Which Highlander Hybrid has the best mpg?


This one uses a 245-hp 2.5-liter non-turbo four-cylinder and electric motor and is available with front- or all-wheel drive. With AWD, EPA-estimated fuel economy is rated at 36/32 mpg. The 2024 Grand Highlander Hybrid FWD returns the best numbers of the lineup, though, at 36-37/32-34 mpg.



What are the downfalls of the Toyota Highlander?


The disadvantages of Toyota Highlander are the following:

  • Salon. The only downside to the cabin is one of such important OEM Toyota parts is the air conditioning system.
  • Steering. When cornering, the car emits an extraneous sound.
  • Chassis.
  • Timing drive.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.