# Toyota Highlander specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2026
- **MPG (combined):** 24-35
- **Drive:** AWD
- **Years covered:** 2015-2026

## Quick answer

The 2026 Toyota Highlander is a midsize/large SUV rated at 24-35 mpg combined. Engines: 2.4L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid.

## Every 2026 Toyota Highlander version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Highlander Hybrid AWD LTD/PLAT | 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | AWD | CVT | 35/34 | 35 mpg | $1,900 | 253 g/mi |
| Highlander Hybrid AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | AWD | CVT | 35/35 | 35 mpg | $1,900 | 254 g/mi |
| Highlander AWD | 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | AWD | Automatic | 21/28 | 24 mpg | $2,800 | 371 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Toyota Highlander specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | 2.4L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD | 24-35 |
| 2025 | 2.4L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD, FWD | 24-35 |
| 2024 | 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT, Automatic | AWD, FWD | 24-36 |
| 2023 | 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT, Automatic | AWD, FWD | 24-36 |
| 2022 | 3.5L V6; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD, FWD | 23-36 |
| 2021 | 3.5L V6; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD, FWD | 23-36 |
| 2020 | 3.5L V6; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD, FWD | 23-36 |
| 2019 | 2.7L 4-cyl; 3.5L V6; 3.5L V6 hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD, FWD | 22-29 |
| 2018 | 2.7L 4-cyl; 3.5L V6; 3.5L V6 hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD, FWD | 22-29 |
| 2017 | 2.7L 4-cyl; 3.5L V6; 3.5L V6 hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD, FWD | 22-29 |
| 2016 | 2.7L 4-cyl; 3.5L V6; 3.5L V6 hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD, FWD | 20-28 |
| 2015 | 2.7L 4-cyl; 3.5L V6; 3.5L V6 hybrid | Automatic, CVT | AWD, FWD | 20-28 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the Highlander changed over the years?

- **2026:** FWD was dropped.
- **2025:** combined mpg went from 24-36 to 24-35.
- **2023:** added 2.4L 4-cyl turbo; dropped 3.5L V6.
- **2020:** added 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid; dropped 2.7L 4-cyl and 3.5L V6 hybrid.
- **2017:** combined mpg went from 20-28 to 22-29.

## What does it cost to run a Highlander?

The EPA puts the 2026 Toyota Highlander's fuel cost at **$1,900-$2,800 a year**, against about $3,017 for other current midsize/large SUVs: roughly 22% less. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $11,750 in fuel.

## Highlander vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Jeep Cherokee](/vehicles/jeep-cherokee) | Hybrid | 37 mpg | $1,800 |
| [Kia Telluride](/vehicles/kia-telluride) | Gas, Hybrid | 19-35 mpg | $1,900-$3,550 |
| [Hyundai Palisade](/vehicles/hyundai-palisade) | Gas, Hybrid | 19-34 mpg | $1,950-$3,550 |
| [Volvo XC90](/vehicles/volvo-xc90) | Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 23-27 mpg | $3,050-$3,550 |
| [Lexus TX](/vehicles/lexus-tx) | Gas, Hybrid | 23-27 mpg | $3,050-$3,550 |
| [BMW X5](/vehicles/bmw-x5) | Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 15-26 mpg | $3,150-$5,500 |
| [Mazda CX-90](/vehicles/mazda-cx-90) | Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 25-26 mpg | $2,700-$3,300 |
| Mazda CX-70 | Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 25-26 mpg | $2,700-$3,300 |

Other current midsize/large SUVs from other makes, most efficient first.

## Toyota Highlander problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Power Train | 807 |
| Service Brakes | 331 |
| Engine | 289 |
| Electrical System | 287 |
| Structure | 240 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 233 |
| Air Bags | 191 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 94 |

From 2,788 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2021**.

## Guides for common Toyota Highlander problems

- **Transmission and drivetrain** (807 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)
- **Brake** (331 complaints): [Why are my brakes squeaking](/symptoms/squeaky-brakes) - [Why do my brakes make a grinding noise](/symptoms/brake-grinding-noise) - [Why does my brake pedal go to the floor](/symptoms/brake-pedal-goes-to-floor) - [brake pad replacement cost](/cost/brake-pad-replacement) - [brake rotor replacement cost](/cost/brake-rotor-replacement) - [brake caliper replacement cost](/cost/brake-caliper-replacement)
- **Engine** (289 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Electrical** (287 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)
- **Fuel and propulsion** (233 complaints): [Why does my car stall while driving](/symptoms/car-stalls-while-driving) - [Why does my car lose power when accelerating](/symptoms/car-loses-power-when-accelerating) - [Why does my car hesitate when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-hesitates-when-accelerating)

## Toyota Highlander warning lights

- [Highlander: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/toyota-highlander): 150 complaints
- [Highlander: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/toyota-highlander): 72 complaints
- [Highlander: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/toyota-highlander): 35 complaints
- [Highlander: Traction control light](/warning-lights/traction-control/toyota-highlander): 32 complaints
- [Highlander: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/toyota-highlander): 24 complaints
- [Highlander: ABS warning light](/warning-lights/abs/toyota-highlander): 15 complaints
- [Highlander: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/toyota-highlander): 13 complaints

## Toyota Highlander recalls (26)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [26V128000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V128000) | 2021-2025 | Seats: Mid/Rear Assembly | 2026-03-05 |
| [25V872000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V872000) | 2024-2025 | Seat Belts: Rear/Other | 2025-12-17 |
| [25V744000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V744000) | 2023-2025 | Back Over Prevention: Display Function | 2025-10-30 |
| [25V595000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V595000) | 2023-2025 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2025-09-11 |
| [25V040000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V040000) | 2023 | Steering: Column | 2025-01-29 |
| [24V548000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V548000) | 2023-2024 | Equipment: Other | 2024-07-23 |
| [24V452000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V452000) | 2021-2024 | Tires | 2024-06-18 |
| [24V419000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V419000) | 2022-2024 | Tires | 2024-06-06 |
| [23V865000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V865000) | 2020-2021 | Air Bags: Sensor | 2023-12-20 |
| [23V720000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V720000) | 2020-2023 | Structure: Body | 2023-10-26 |
| [23V480000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V480000) | 2023 | Steering: Column | 2023-07-12 |
| [22V310000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V310000) | 2022 | Equipment: Other | 2022-05-06 |
| [22V239000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V239000) | 2020-2022 | Electronic Stability Control (esc): Control Module | 2022-04-13 |
| [20V682000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V682000) | 2017-2019 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2020-11-04 |
| [20V633000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V633000) | 2020 | Air Bags | 2020-10-14 |
| [20V162000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V162000) | 2020 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2020-03-19 |
| [20V012000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V012000) | 2018-2019 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2020-01-13 |
| [19V244000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V244000) | 2019 | Equipment: Other | 2019-03-27 |
| [18E107000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18E107000) | 2015-2018 | Electrical System | 2018-11-27 |
| [18V211000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V211000) | 2018 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Power Assist | 2018-04-03 |
| [17V831000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V831000) | 2018 | Equipment: Other | 2017-12-20 |
| [17V520000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V520000) | 2017 | Equipment | 2017-08-23 |
| [17V295000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V295000) | 2017 | Tires: Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire | 2017-05-02 |
| [16V775000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V775000) | 2016 | Electrical System: Wiring | 2016-10-24 |
| [16V420000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V420000) | 2016 | Equipment: Other | 2016-06-09 |

Showing the 25 most recent of 26. Recall repairs are free at any Toyota dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2026 Toyota Highlander get?

The 2026 Toyota Highlander is EPA-rated at 24-35 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2026 Toyota Highlander have?

The 2026 Toyota Highlander comes with: 2.4L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid. It uses automatic, cvt transmissions and is offered with AWD.

### Is there a hybrid Toyota Highlander?

Yes. The Toyota Highlander has been offered as a hybrid in some model years; the table above shows which.

### Which Toyota Highlander year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2024 Toyota Highlander has the highest combined rating, up to 36 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2026 Toyota Highlander for a year?

About $1,900-$2,800 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2026 Toyota Highlander?

The most efficient 2026 version, the Highlander Hybrid AWD LTD/PLAT, is rated 35 mpg city and 34 mpg highway (35 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2026 Toyota Highlander emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 253-371 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Does the 2026 Toyota Highlander come with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2026 Toyota Highlander is offered with AWD. All- or four-wheel drive usually costs 1-3 mpg compared with the two-wheel-drive version of the same engine, as the versions table shows.

### Is the Toyota Highlander cheap to run compared with other midsize/large SUVs?

Yes, cheaper than average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $1,900-$2,800 compares with about $3,017 for other current midsize/large SUV models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Toyota Highlander have?

NHTSA lists 26 recalls for 2015-2026 Toyota Highlander models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2026-03-05 (26V128000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Toyota Highlander?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is power train, followed by service brakes. The 2021 model year has the most complaints (550), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## All Toyota SUVs

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- [Toyota 4Runner](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-4runner)
- [Toyota Grand Highlander](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-grand-highlander)
- [Toyota Land Cruiser](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-land-cruiser)
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## More Toyota models

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## Other midsize/large SUVs

- [Volvo EX90](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volvo-ex90)
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- [Audi e-tron](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-e-tron)
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- [Audi Q8](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-q8)

## Compared with

- [Audi RS Q8](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-rs-q8)
- [Audi SQ7](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-sq7)
- [Audi SQ8](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-sq8)
- [BMW X5](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-x5)
- [BMW X6](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-x6)
- [BMW X7](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-x7)
- [BMW XM](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-xm)
- [Buick Enclave](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/buick-enclave)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

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Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-highlander
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.