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When it comes to dependable SUVs that blend comfort, capability, and cutting-edge features, Toyota continues to set the standard—and in 2025, drivers have two standout options: the Toyota Highlander and the all-new Grand Highlander. But what’s the real difference between these two? Whether you're hauling the family across town or planning a cross-country adventure, choosing the right SUV can make all the difference. In this comparison, we break down the essentials—size, performance, tech, and more—to help you decide which Toyota fits your lifestyle best. Ready to take the next step? Visit or contact Joseph Toyota of Cincinnati, where our team is here to help you find the perfect match.
Choosing the right three-row SUV comes down to space, comfort, and needs. Two top choices in Toyota’s 2025 lineup are made to serve busy families, but they don’t do it the same way. One is a smart, midsize pick that balances size with ease. The other goes bigger with more room, more seats, and a few added perks.
Let’s take a look at which of these two strong options fits your family best.
The biggest split comes in how much space you want—and need. Both models have three rows, but only one was built to give extra room in all the right spots.
| Feature | Toyota Highlander | Grand Highlander |
| Length | Shorter | Longer |
| Third-Row Space | Best for kids | Fits adults too |
| Cargo Space (Max) | Less storage | More storage |
| Seating | Up to 8 people | Up to 8 people |
Need to park in tight spots often? The smaller model may be the better pick. Need to stretch out on long drives? The larger SUV was built just for that.
Think about how your family lives day to day. These are a few things to keep in mind:
If you said yes to more than one of these, the Grand Highlander might be your match. But if you want solid space without going too big, the other model may do just fine.
Both give you the same peace of mind, smart features, and bold style you expect from Toyota. What changes is how much space your crew needs to ride in comfort.
Want help finding the right one for your family? Stop by or reach out to Joseph Toyota of Cincinnati today.
When you shop for a 3-row SUV, cost matters. So does space. One gives you more room. One gives you more value.
Let’s look at how these two SUVs compare in size and price.
The Grand SUV is longer, taller, and wider. It gives you more space in all three rows.
| Measurement | Highlander | Grand Highlander |
| Length | ~194.9 inches | ~201.4 inches |
| Width | ~76 inches | ~78.3 inches |
| Height | ~68 inches | ~70.1 inches |
| Max Cargo Space | ~84.3 cu. ft. | ~97.5 cu. ft. |
That extra space means more room for legs, gear, and comfort.
You’ll pay more for the extra space. But for some families, it’s worth it.
Ask yourself:
Both models offer safety, tech, and strong performance. It all depends on what matters more to you.
Need help deciding? Joseph Toyota of Cincinnati is here to guide you.
When you need space for your crew, every inch counts. These two SUVs both have three rows, but they feel very different.
The newer, larger option adds more room where it matters. This means more space for legs, heads, and gear. If comfort on long trips is key, that extra room makes a big change.
Use this quick guide to see the size difference:
| Feature | Standard Model | Larger Model |
| Length | ~194.9 inches | ~201.4 inches |
| Width | ~76 inches | ~78.3 inches |
| Height | ~68 inches | ~70.1 inches |
| Max Cargo Space | ~84.3 cu. ft. | ~97.5 cu. ft. |
| Third-Row Space | Smaller fit | More legroom |
This means the larger model gives more room for teens, adults, or child seats in the back. The extra cargo space also helps with gear, groceries, or trips.
Yes, size plays a part in cost. The roomier option costs more, but not by much for what you gain.
If you're stuck between space and savings, we can help. Stop by Joseph Toyota of Cincinnati or give us a call to talk it through.
These two SUVs may look alike, but what’s under the hood can feel much different. One offers more ways to drive. One keeps it more simple.
You’ll find options in both gas and hybrid builds. The larger one even gives you a turbo hybrid choice.
Let’s break it down.
| Option Type | Standard Model | Larger Model |
| Base Engine | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder |
| Hybrid Option | 2.5L Hybrid | 2.5L Hybrid |
| Hybrid Max | Not available | 2.4L Turbo Hybrid Max |
| Drive Choices | FWD or AWD | FWD or AWD |
The larger model’s Max setup boosts power. It’s best for faster roads, hills, or drivers who want more zip.
Fuel use plays a big role when you drive every day. Here’s how the models compare:
You’ll notice the hybrid setup saves the most fuel. If gas savings are key, both versions have you covered.
Want help choosing the right power for your needs? Visit or contact Joseph Toyota of Cincinnati to find your fit.
When you’re shopping for a new SUV, fuel efficiency matters. Whether it’s your daily commute or weekend road trips, how far you can go on a tank is key. So, how do the models compare? Let’s dive into the numbers.
Both options offer a gas engine and a hybrid version. The hybrid versions deliver better fuel efficiency, but there are differences in performance.
| Model Type | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
| Gas Engine | 22 | 29 | 25 |
| Hybrid Engine | 36 | 35 | 36 |
| Hybrid Max | 26 | 27 | 26 |
Looking for a Toyota Highlander that fits your driving needs? A Toyota Highlander dealer can help you find the right trim. Visit us at Joseph Toyota of Cincinnati for more details and personalized assistance.
When you’re on the road, comfort matters. Whether you’re driving to the store or taking a long road trip, the right interior features make all the difference. So, how do the two models compare in terms of space, comfort, and convenience for passengers? Let’s break it down.
Both models are designed with families in mind. However, the Grand Highlander provides extra space for those who need it. Here’s a quick comparison of what you can expect:
Both vehicles offer high-quality materials, but the Grand Highlander steps up the luxury with premium finishes. Here’s what to expect:
Both SUVs are packed with features to make your ride more enjoyable. Whether you’re traveling with kids, pets, or adults, the driving experience will feel premium.
The Grand Highlander is built to provide more room without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re driving your kids to school or embarking on a cross-country journey, both models offer a comfortable ride. But for those looking for extra legroom and premium features, the Grand Highlander might be your best option.
Interested in checking out both models up close? Visit us at your local Toyota Highlander dealer to explore all the comfort features for yourself.
When it comes to tech and connectivity, both options offer impressive features. The 2025 Highlander and Grand Highlander both focus on keeping you connected, entertained, and safe. Let’s break down the key features to help you decide which SUV suits your tech needs.
The 2025 Highlander and Grand Highlander both come with high-tech infotainment systems, but there are differences in size and options.
Whether you’re on the go or at home, staying connected is easy with either vehicle. Both models offer a range of connectivity options.
Both models offer Toyota Safety Sense™, but the Grand Highlander includes some advanced features to enhance your driving experience.
When it comes to your family’s safety, both the 2025 Highlander and Grand Highlander have you covered. Both models come with advanced safety features that are designed to protect every passenger on the road. Whether you're driving in the city or on a long trip, these features provide peace of mind.
Both vehicles come standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+. This suite of safety features includes:
These features are designed to help prevent accidents and ensure you have a safer driving experience.
The Grand Highlander takes safety a step further with a few extra features that can be especially useful for larger families. These advanced features are available to enhance your driving experience.
The Grand Highlander offers more interior space, which not only provides more room for your passengers but also enhances overall safety. With extra legroom and more space between the front and rear seats, the risk of injury during a collision is reduced.
When it comes to everyday practicality, both the 2025 Highlander and Grand Highlander provide impressive storage and cargo capacity. Whether you're running errands or heading on a family road trip, the ability to carry all your belongings with ease is crucial.
The Grand Highlander offers more space overall, which means it can carry more gear. Here's how the two compare:
| Feature | Grand Highlander | Toyota Highlander |
| Cargo Space | Up to 98.2 cu ft with seats down | Up to 84.3 cu ft with seats down |
| Behind 3rd Row | 20.6 cu ft | 16 cu ft |
| Storage Compartments | More compartments, including deeper bins | Fewer but still spacious compartments |
Both models are designed with family life in mind. They provide plenty of everyday utility, such as:
The Grand Highlander benefits from its larger dimensions, offering wider door openings and easier access to the third-row seats. While the Toyota Highlander is smaller, it still offers excellent access and space for families, though the third row may feel a bit tighter for adults on longer trips.
The 2025 Grand Highlander achieves up to 27 MPG combined (depending on trim and drivetrain), while the 2025 Highlander offers up to 24 MPG combined. The Grand Highlander is slightly more fuel-efficient.
The 2025 Grand Highlander might be worth the extra cost if you need more interior space, larger cargo capacity, and additional features. However, if you don't need those extra dimensions, the standard 2025 Highlander is a strong and more affordable option.
The 2025 Highlander starts at $$39,820, while the 2025 Grand Highlander starts at $40,860, reflecting its larger size and additional features.
The 2025 Grand Highlander is generally more fuel-efficient, offering better MPG ratings in most configurations compared to the 2025 Highlander.
As you explore your options between the 2025 Highlander and Grand Highlander, Joseph Toyota of Cincinnati is here to help you make the best decision. Whether you're in Harrison, Fairfield, Hamilton, or Mason, we invite you to visit our dealership and browse our wide selection of vehicles. Our team is dedicated to finding the perfect fit for your needs.
While you're considering your next Toyota, take a moment to check out our other helpful blog posts. Learn about what happens when you get your Toyota repaired after an accident, and how it can affect the value and performance of your vehicle. If you're thinking about upgrading, our tips for getting a good deal on your Toyota trade-in could give you an edge. Plus, if you're wondering whether ToyotaCare is worth it in 2025, we have all the details to help you decide.
Explore all the resources we offer on our site, and don't hesitate to contact us for more personalized guidance. We're here to make your Toyota journey as smooth and rewarding as possible!
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