Toyota Highlander MPG
It is rare for a powerful SUV to deliver excellent MPG estimates, but that is what you can expect with the Toyota Highlander MPG. With up to 11 trim levels available on the latest generation of the Highlander, you have more options to pick your vehicle trim according to its fuel economy and a ton of other features. To help you make the right pick, we’ll delve into the factors affecting the Highlander’s fuel economy rating and how it stacks up across different trim levels.
Toyota Highlander Trim Levels
The Toyota Highlander has dominated the midsize SUV segment over the years, and it aims to solidify its position on top with a myriad of trims and drivetrain options.
Currently, there are 11 trim options, including hybrid trims, and they vary in pricing per trim. Here is an overview of the trim options available and their engine specs:
Toyota Highlander L: 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander LE: 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander XLE: 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander XSE: 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander Limited: 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander Platinum: 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE: 2.5L L4HV ECVT with 243 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE: 2.5L L4HV ECVT with 243 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Bronze Edition: 2.5L L4HV ECVT with 243 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited Edition: 2.5L L4HV ECVT with 243 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum: 2.5L L4HV ECVT with 243 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque
Aside from the engine specifications, the new Highlander has improved features, such as a larger infotainment touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats, and acoustic noise-reducing front side windows. However, the fuel-efficient engine that comes standard across all trims is the best feature of this SUV yet. It ensures you can get more time on the road with each fill-up, offering more value for your money.
Toyota Highlander MPG Rating
Do you want to know how the Toyota Highlander MPG compare to other SUVs? Let’s look at the numbers to know the right trim and engine that fits your needs and budget, based on the EPA estimates.
Toyota Highlander
Engine: 3.5L 6-cylinder 8-speed automatic transmission
Fuel type: Regular gasoline
MPG rating: 24/21/29 MPG (combined/city/highway)
Annual fuel cost: $2,300
Toyota Highlander AWD
Engine: 3.5L 6-cylinder 8-speed automatic transmission
Fuel type: Regular gasoline
MPG rating: 23/20/27 MPG (combined/city/highway)
Annual fuel cost: $2,300
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder 6-speed automatic transmission
Fuel type: Regular gasoline
MPG rating: 36/36/35 MPG (combined/city/highway)
Annual fuel cost: $1,550
Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD
Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder 6-speed automatic transmission
Fuel type: Regular gasoline
MPG rating: 35/35/35 MPG (combined/city/highway)
Annual fuel cost: $1,550
Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD LTD/PLAT
Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder 6-speed automatic transmission
Fuel type: Regular gasoline
MPG rating: 35/35/34 MPG (combined/city/highway)
Annual fuel cost: $1,550
Fuel or Hybrid: Toyota Highlander Impressive Gas Mileage
The option to go hybrid gives you the option to experience better gas mileage with the Toyota Highlander. The gas-powered Highlander already boasts impressive MPG ratings, thanks to the smooth shifting abilities and electronically controlled automatic transmission engine. The front-wheel drivetrain option also adds to its fuel economy performance. Meanwhile, an all-wheel drive option is available for better fuel performance.
In addition to the gas-powered Highlander, there is a hybrid powertrain available. It is fitted with the gas-powered engine and electric motors to ensure you don’t burn as much fuel, giving you longer mileage.
Whether you’re driving the gas-powered or hybrid engine, be sure to keep up with your vehicle maintenance and servicing. A Toyota Extended Warranty gives you peace of mind that your vehicle’s engine is in the best condition, which is the most critical factor in maximizing efficiency.
What is a Good Gas Mileage?
Gas mileage is determined by the distance covered (miles) per gallon. The higher the number, the better the mileage rating.
When the MPG rating is high, it means that your vehicle can run for a longer distance for the same fill up versus another vehicle with a lower MPG.
In most cases, the highway MPG is higher than the city MPG. City driving involves driving at slower speeds and you will mostly deal with traffic, which can increase your fuel consumption. Aside from the driving and road conditions, certain factors can also directly affect gas mileage, such as engineering and driving habits. The vehicle itself can also impact how well the vehicle can achieve gas mileage, such as an aerodynamic design, drivetrain type, displacement, and lower mechanical resistance.
Is the Toyota Highlander a Fuel-Efficient SUV?
Gas mileage is the most objective way to determine a vehicle’s fuel efficiency. With the Toyota Highlander MPG, the numbers are good, even impressive for an SUV. It makes the Highlander a practical option for vehicle buyers looking to maximize their fuel consumption and ensure they can get more drive out of their vehicle.
However, consumers rarely focus on fuel economy rating alone when making a buying decision. Other factors like interior and exterior design, ride comfort, handling, technology, and safety features can also be critical. But it is reassuring to know that the fuel efficiency on the Toyota Highlander makes it worth spending your money on.
