After several months of its global debut, Toyota finally launched the 2025 Grand Highlander to the U.S. market with a new set of trims: the base LE and the sporty Nightshade Edition. The LE is an offering of the most basic version in the lineup, more of an affordable offer with basic equipment such as the power liftgate, 18-inch wheel, and heated side mirrors with blind spot indicators- mainly convenience and safety.
Inside is LE grade that can seat eight, all treated to fabric upholstery, accompanied by a legacy analog gauge cluster and 7 inches of multi-information display. For the cabin experience, Toyota adds a 12.3-inch infotainment display, six-speaker audio, and three zone climate. An eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite are also included.
The LE will be fitted with a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 265 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard for the LE while the AWD is available to enhance grip. To meet the call of environmentally friendly options, Toyota also offered a hybrid variant, having an in-built 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor and as high as 245 horsepower. At the same time, it promises to deliver a surprisingly efficient 14 km/l.
“The Nightshade Edition gives the Grand Highlander a bold edge with its dark-themed aesthetic that points out the adventurous look of this vehicle,” said a Toyota official. From the Hybrid Limited trim, this variant makes itself stand out with black accents on the hood, bumper, and 20-inches wheels. Inside, the Nightshade boasts premiumness with black leather seat upholstery, matte gray metallic accents inside, as well as heated and ventilated front seats, and second-row captain’s chairs.
The Nightshade Edition also raises the bar on driving experience, and such features as an 11-speaker JBL audio system, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, and even a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster make it perfect for the driver who wants both luxury and performance.
A base price starts at $40,860 for LE, FWD; the cost increases to $42,460 for AWD. Then there’s the Nightshade Edition, which costs significantly more at $52,610 given its unique style and design setting it at a more premium level compared to other Grand Highlanders. This balance of affordability, eco-friendly options, and style options makes the 2025 Grand Highlander a highly appealing contender for American families in search of midsize SUV flexibility.