The Toyota Highlander 2025 continues to hold a strong position in the UAE as a go to family SUV. Known for its balance of modern styling, Japanese reliability, and advanced features, it appeals to drivers looking for comfort and practicality. But like any car, it comes with both strengths and trade offs. Here is a closer look at what makes the Highlander stand out and where it might fall short for some buyers.
The 2025 Highlander gets subtle but effective exterior updates. A refreshed front grille, sharp LED headlights, and clean dynamic lines give it a commanding presence on UAE roads. While the changes are not radical, they enhance the SUV’s premium appeal and help it stay competitive in a crowded segment.
Inside, the Highlander offers three rows of seating for up to eight passengers. The second and third rows can be folded to create extra cargo space, making it suitable for both daily commutes and road trips. The cabin features high quality materials, leather accents, and multiple color options. Comfort is further boosted by effective climate control for all rows.
The Highlander in the UAE is offered exclusively with a 2.5 liter hybrid engine paired with a CVT and all wheel drive. It delivers strong fuel efficiency at about 4.7 to 5.0 liters per 100 kilometers, which is ideal for drivers who want to save on fuel without sacrificing everyday performance. While it is not built for high performance thrills, it handles city and highway driving with ease.
The SUV is equipped with Toyota Audio Multimedia featuring a large touch display, wireless charging, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Safety comes from Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, blind spot monitoring, a 360 degree camera, and a pre collision system. These features make the Highlander a dependable choice for family travel.
The starting price of around 171,900 AED is higher than some rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. It lacks diesel or fully electric options, which may deter eco focused buyers. Off road capabilities are also limited, meaning it is not ideal for heavy desert adventures. The third row is best suited for children or short trips, and hybrid parts may take longer to source in some cases.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.
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