Does the 2025 Toyota Highlander Have a V6 Engine Inside

The 2025 Toyota Highlander does not include a V6 engine. Toyota has replaced the V6 with a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder and a hybrid powertrain across all trims. This shift improves fuel economy and reduces emissions while still delivering strong performance for families.

The question “Does the 2025 Toyota Highlander have a V6 engine inside?” is one of the most searched topics among SUV shoppers right now. The answer might surprise you. Toyota has made a big change to the Highlander lineup for 2025, and it affects the heart of the vehicle. If you are a loyal Highlander fan or just starting to look at this popular three-row SUV, understanding the engine situation is important. This article covers everything you need to know about the 2025 Toyota Highlander engine options. We will break down the specs, compare them to older models, and help you decide if the new setup works for your family.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander marks a turning point for this long-running model. For years, the V6 engine was the signature powerplant that made the Highlander stand out from competitors. Toyota has now moved to a new era with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a full hybrid powertrain. Both options bring their own advantages. Whether you care about fuel savings, towing ability, or just a smooth daily drive, the 2025 Highlander has something to offer. Let us dive into the details and see what this means for you.

Key Takeaways

• No V6 Available: The 2025 Toyota Highlander has dropped the V6 engine entirely in favor of a turbocharged 4-cylinder and hybrid setup.
• Two Powertrain Choices: Buyers can choose between a 2.4L turbocharged engine or a hybrid system, both offering competitive performance.
• Better Fuel Economy: The new engine options deliver significantly better gas mileage than the old V6, especially in the hybrid variant.
• Familiar Driving Feel: Despite the engine change, the Highlander still offers a smooth, comfortable ride that families expect.
• Previous Models Had V6: If you want a V6 Highlander, you will need to look at 2023 or earlier model years.
• Strong Towing Capacity: The turbocharged 4-cylinder still provides enough power for light towing and daily hauling needs.
• Worth the Switch: Most buyers will find the new powertrains more than meet their needs without the fuel cost of a V6.

Does the 2025 Toyota Highlander Have a V6 Engine?

The short answer is no. The 2025 Toyota Highlander does not have a V6 engine inside. Toyota removed the V6 from the Highlander lineup for the 2025 model year. This is a significant change for a model that offered a V6 for many years. The automaker replaced it with two modern powertrain options that focus on efficiency and performance.

If you walk into a dealership and ask for a Highlander with a V6, you will not find one on the lot for 2025. Every single 2025 Highlander comes with either the turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder or the hybrid system. This shift aligns with Toyota’s broader strategy of moving toward smaller, more efficient engines across its lineup. The company believes that turbocharging and hybrid technology can match or even beat the performance of a traditional V6 while saving money at the pump.

For buyers who loved the V6 Highlander, this change might take some getting used to. But the numbers tell a compelling story. The new engines offer strong horsepower, better fuel economy, and lower emissions. Toyota has engineered these powertrains specifically for the Highlander platform, so they feel right at home in this midsize SUV.

Why Did Toyota Drop the V6?

Toyota made this decision for several smart reasons. First, fuel economy standards are getting stricter every year. Smaller turbocharged engines and hybrid systems help Toyota meet these regulations. Second, many buyers today prioritize efficiency over raw power. The V6 was great for performance, but it guzzled gas compared to newer alternatives. Third, the 2.4L turbo and hybrid powertrains actually deliver competitive performance numbers.

Another reason is cost. Turbocharged four-cylinder engines are generally less expensive to produce and maintain than V6 engines. This can translate to a lower starting price for the Highlander. It also means fewer parts to replace over time, which saves owners money on long-term ownership costs.

Toyota also looked at what competitors were doing. Many rival SUVs in the three-row segment have already moved to four-cylinder and hybrid powertrains. Staying competitive in the market meant making a change. The 2025 Highlander now sits alongside models like the Mazda CX-90, which also offers a turbocharged four-cylinder as its primary engine.

What Engine Does the 2025 Highlander Come With?

The 2025 Toyota Highlander offers two distinct powertrain options. Let us look at each one in detail so you understand exactly what is under the hood.

2.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine

The standard engine for the 2025 Highlander is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. This engine produces 265 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Those numbers are impressive for a four-cylinder and rival what many V6 engines deliver. The turbocharger helps squeeze out power by forcing more air into the combustion chambers.

This engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The transmission shifts smoothly and helps keep the engine in its power band during acceleration. The Highlander with this engine can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That is plenty for a small trailer, boat, or camper.

For most families, this engine provides more than enough power. You will have confident merging on highways, easy passing on two-lane roads, and smooth acceleration for daily driving. The turbocharged engine also delivers strong low-end torque, which means you feel responsive power right off the line without needing to rev the engine high.

Hybrid Powertrain Option

The 2025 Highlander also offers a hybrid powertrain. This system combines a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with electric motors. Together, the hybrid system produces a combined 243 horsepower. The hybrid setup uses a battery pack to assist the engine during acceleration and can run on electric power alone at low speeds.

The hybrid Highlander delivers excellent fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive hybrid model earns an estimated 36 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway. The all-wheel-drive hybrid is not far behind at 35 mpg combined. These numbers are a huge step up from the old V6 Highlander, which averaged around 22 mpg combined.

If you want to learn more about how hybrid systems work and what makes them efficient, check out our guide on how a hybrid car works step by step. Understanding the technology helps you appreciate what Toyota has packed into the Highlander.

2025 Highlander Powertrain Options Across Trims

Every trim level of the 2025 Toyota Highlander comes with one of the two powertrain options described above. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect across the lineup.

SE Trim

The SE trim starts with the 2.4L turbocharged engine as standard. This trim focuses on a sportier feel with unique styling touches and a slightly firmer suspension. The SE is a great choice for buyers who want a bit more driving engagement without sacrificing practicality.

XLE Trim

The XLE trim offers both the turbocharged engine and the hybrid powertrain. This trim adds comfort features like upgraded seating materials and more tech amenities. The XLE is one of the most popular trims because it balances value with comfort.

Limited Trim

The Limited trim comes with the hybrid powertrain as standard, though the turbocharged engine is also available. This trim adds leather seating, a power liftgate, and advanced driver-assistance features. The Limited is ideal for buyers who want a premium feel without stepping up to the top-tier Platinum.

Platinum Trim

The Platinum trim is the range-topper and comes exclusively with the hybrid powertrain. It includes every luxury feature Toyota offers, from a panoramic moonroof to a premium audio system. The Platinum Hybrid delivers the best combination of comfort, technology, and fuel efficiency in the lineup.

Quick Comparison Table

Trim Level	Engine Available	Hybrid Available	Est. Combined MPG
SE	2.4L Turbo	No	28 mpg
XLE	2.4L Turbo	Yes	35 mpg (Hybrid)
Limited	2.4L Turbo	Yes	35 mpg (Hybrid)
Platinum	Hybrid Only	Yes	35 mpg (Hybrid)

If you are curious about how engine choices affect long-term ownership costs, our article on does insurance cover engine replacement provides helpful insights into protecting your investment.

Comparing the 2025 Highlander to Previous V6 Models

To truly understand what the 2025 Highlander offers, it helps to compare it to the previous generation that featured a V6 engine. The 2020 through 2023 Toyota Highlander came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This V6 produced 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. It was a smooth, refined powerplant that made the Highlander feel effortless on highways and steep inclines.

Performance Comparison

The 2025 turbocharged 2.4L engine makes 265 horsepower, which is 30 horsepower less than the old V6. However, it makes up for this with 54 more pound-feet of torque. That extra torque means the Highlander still feels strong and responsive in everyday driving. The turbocharger fills in the gap that the smaller displacement leaves, especially at lower RPMs.

In real-world driving, most people will not notice a huge difference between the two engines. The 2025 Highlander accelerates to 60 mph in about 7.1 seconds with the turbocharged engine. The old V6 model managed about 7.0 seconds. The difference is barely noticeable behind the wheel.

Fuel Economy Comparison

This is where the 2025 Highlander really shines. The old V6 model averaged around 22 mpg combined. The new turbocharged engine achieves 28 mpg combined. The hybrid variant pushes that number even higher to 35 mpg combined. Over a year of typical driving, these savings add up to hundreds of dollars at the fuel pump.

If you want to maximize your savings, consider how driving habits impact fuel use. Our article on how much mileage does eco mode save explores simple adjustments that can stretch your tank even further.

Towing and Utility

The old V6 Highlander could tow up to 5,000 pounds. The new turbocharged engine also tows up to 5,000 pounds. So towing capability remains unchanged. For most families, 5,000 pounds is more than enough to haul a small trailer, camping gear, or a personal watercraft.

For those who need more towing capacity, the Tacoma is a better option. If you have ever wondered whether a Tacoma can pull a large camper, check out our article on can a Toyota Tacoma pull a 30-foot camper for detailed towing insights.

What This Means for Buyers Shopping for a 2025 Highlander

If you are in the market for a 2025 Toyota Highlander, the engine change should not scare you away. The new powertrains are modern, efficient, and capable. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop.

Test Drive Both Powertrains

The best way to decide between the turbocharged engine and the hybrid is to test drive both. Visit your local Toyota dealership and spend time behind the wheel of each variant. You will quickly feel which one suits your driving style. The turbocharged engine offers a more traditional SUV feel with strong acceleration. The hybrid feels slightly different because of the regenerative braking and electric-only operation at low speeds.

Consider Your Driving Habits

If you do a lot of city driving or have a long commute, the hybrid is the clear winner. The fuel savings in stop-and-go traffic are significant. If you mostly drive on highways and occasionally tow, the turbocharged engine is a great choice. It delivers strong performance and still gets excellent mileage for a non-hybrid SUV.

Think About Long-Term Ownership

Four-cylinder engines and hybrid systems generally cost less to maintain than V6 engines. There are fewer spark plugs to replace, less oil to change, and fewer belts and hoses to worry about. Over a five-year ownership period, these savings can be substantial. Toyota also rates the reliability of the new powertrains highly, which adds confidence for long-term buyers.

Keep an Eye on Resale Value

Toyota Highlanders have always held their value well. The 2025 model with its new engines is expected to continue this trend. Hybrid vehicles are increasingly popular on the used market, so a hybrid Highlander may hold its value even better than previous V6 models. If resale value matters to you, the hybrid trim is worth considering.

For more information about maintaining your vehicle’s engine health, our guide on how long does a full car diagnostic take can help you understand how to keep your Highlander running at its best.

Expert Insights on the Engine Change

Automotive experts have generally praised Toyota’s decision to move away from the V6 in the Highlander. According to reviews from major automotive publications, the 2.4L turbocharged engine delivers a refined and satisfying driving experience. The hybrid system earns special mention for its impressive fuel economy without sacrificing comfort or performance.

Engineers at Toyota focused on making the transition as seamless as possible. They tuned the suspension and chassis to work with the new powertrains. The result is a Highlander that feels just as composed and comfortable as previous generations, even without the V6 rumble that fans loved.

Some critics note that the V6 engine had a certain character that the new engines cannot fully replicate. The deep, smooth sound of a V6 is hard to replace with a four-cylinder, even a turbocharged one. However, most testers agree that the trade-off in refinement is worth the gains in efficiency and technology.

From a technical standpoint, the new engines are impressive feats of engineering. The turbocharger is compact and responds quickly, eliminating the lag that sometimes plagues smaller forced-induction engines. The hybrid system uses an e-CVT transmission that seamlessly blends electric and gasoline power. Together, these technologies make the 2025 Highlander feel modern and forward-thinking.

Common Mistakes Buyers Make When Choosing a Highlander Engine

Avoid these common pitfalls when shopping for a 2025 Highlander. First, do not assume all trims come with the hybrid. Only the XLE, Limited, and Platinum offer hybrid options. If you want the hybrid, make sure you configure the right trim. Second, do not overlook the importance of the eight-speed transmission. It plays a big role in how the engine feels during daily driving. Third, do not compare the 2025 Highlander engine numbers directly to the old V6 without considering the torque advantage of the turbo.

Another mistake is ignoring the total cost of ownership. A hybrid Highlander costs more upfront but saves money on fuel over time. Calculate your break-even point based on your annual mileage to make an informed decision. Finally, do not forget to factor in your lifestyle. If you regularly tow heavy loads or need maximum cargo space, make sure the engine you choose can handle the workload.

Final Verdict

So, does the 2025 Toyota Highlander have a V6 engine inside? The answer is a clear no. Toyota has replaced the V6 with a capable 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a sophisticated hybrid powertrain. Both options deliver strong performance, excellent fuel economy, and the reliability that Toyota is known for.

The 2025 Highlander is a modern SUV that meets the demands of today’s buyers. It offers everything a family needs: spacious seating for eight, advanced technology, strong safety ratings, and now more efficient powertrains. If you have been waiting for a Highlander but worried about the lack of a V6, you can rest easy. The new engines are a worthy replacement.

The transition away from the V6 might feel like a loss for some loyal Highlander fans. But the benefits of the new powertrains are hard to ignore. Better fuel economy, lower emissions, reduced maintenance costs, and still plenty of power for daily driving and light towing. The 2025 Toyota Highlander proves that you do not need a V6 to have a great SUV.

When you are ready to make a decision, take the time to test drive both the turbocharged and hybrid versions. Pay attention to how each engine feels during your normal driving routines. Talk to the sales team about warranty coverage and maintenance schedules. And remember, the best engine is the one that fits your lifestyle and budget.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander is a strong choice for families who want a reliable, efficient, and capable three-row SUV. The engine change is just one part of what makes this model special. With its updated powertrains, modern tech, and Toyota’s legendary build quality, the 2025 Highlander continues the model’s legacy of excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Toyota remove the V6 from the 2025 Highlander?

Toyota removed the V6 to improve fuel economy, meet stricter emissions standards, and reduce long-term ownership costs. The new 2.4L turbocharged engine and hybrid powertrain deliver competitive performance while being more efficient than the old V6.

Is the 2025 Highlander less powerful than the previous V6 model?

Not significantly. The 2025 turbocharged engine makes 265 horsepower compared to the old V6’s 295 horsepower. However, it makes more torque at 317 pound-feet, which helps it feel just as strong in everyday driving situations.

Can I still get a V6 Highlander for the 2025 model year?

No, Toyota did not offer a V6 Highlander for 2025. If you specifically want a V6, you will need to look at 2023 or earlier model years, or consider a used Highlander from those years.

How does the hybrid Highlander’s fuel economy compare to the V6?

The hybrid Highlander achieves approximately 35 mpg combined, compared to about 22 mpg combined for the old V6 model. That is a massive improvement and can save thousands of dollars in fuel costs over the life of the vehicle.

Does the 2025 Highlander’s new engine affect its towing capacity?

No, the 2025 Highlander can still tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is the same towing capacity as the previous V6-equipped model. The turbocharged engine provides enough torque for light towing needs.

Are the new engines as reliable as the old V6?

Toyota rates the new powertrains with the same reliability standards as their previous engines. The 2.4L turbo and hybrid systems use proven technology, and Toyota offers comprehensive warranty coverage to give buyers peace of mind.

=== CONCLUSION ===

The 2025 Toyota Highlander does not have a V6 engine inside, but it still delivers an excellent driving experience. The new 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder and hybrid powertrains offer strong performance, impressive fuel economy, and the reliability that Toyota buyers expect. Whether you choose the turbocharged engine for its traditional feel or the hybrid for maximum efficiency, the 2025 Highlander proves that a V6 is no longer necessary for a great family SUV. If you are shopping for a new Highlander, take the time to test drive both options and find the one that fits your life best.