2020 Toyota highlalnder vs 2025 Toyota Highlander
Reliability Side-by-Side
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2020 Toyota highlalnder | 2025 Toyota Highlander★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | — | $400-600 |
| Moderate Repairs | — | $500-1,500 occasionally |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | — / — | 22 / 29 |
| MSRP (New) | — | $39,500 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2020 Toyota highlalnder
Engine & drivetrain
Electronics & infotainment
Wear items (brakes, suspension)
Specific failure patterns, mileages, and repair costs unlock with the full reliability report.
2025 Toyota Highlander
Infotainment System
0-15,000 mi
2.4L Turbo Engine (Non-Hybrid)
60,000-120,000 mi
Suspension Bushings/End Links
70,000-100,000 mi
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Editorial Take
The 2020 Toyota Highlander marked the debut of the highly anticipated fourth generation, bringing a complete redesign to Toyota's popular three-row SUV. Fast forward to the 2025 model year, and the Highlander is a refined evolution of that same generation, incorporating minor updates and powertrain shifts that make it a compelling choice against its earlier iteration. These two vehicles are commonly compared by buyers seeking a reliable, family-friendly SUV, whether they're looking for a new vehicle with the latest features or a gently used model offering excellent value. Key decision factors often revolve around the desired powertrain (V6 versus the newer turbo, or hybrid efficiency), the level of technology and safety features, and, crucially, the purchase price. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2020 Toyota Highlander: As the first year of a new generation, the 2020 Highlander saw a few minor teething issues, though nothing widespread or major. 1. Infotainment Glitches: Some owners reported occasional freezing or slow responses from the standard 8-inch or optional 12.3-inch touchscreen system, typically resolved with software updates. 2. Minor Interior Squeaks/Rattles: A small number of owners noted minor interior noise complaints, often attributed to trim pieces or panel gaps, particularly in earlier production models. Overall, the 2020 model's V6 and hybrid powertrains have proven to be exceptionally reliable, with no common mechanical issues emerging even after several years on the road. 2025 Toyota Highlander: The 2025 Highlander benefits from several years of refinement within the fourth generation. The most significant change for this generation occurred in 2023 with the introduction of the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, replacing the V6. 1. New Turbo Engine Longevity: While the 2.4L turbo engine has been used in other Toyota and Lexus models, its long-term reliability in the Highlander specifically is still accumulating data. Some turbo engines, regardless of manufacturer, can be more susceptible to carbon buildup over very high mileage if maintenance schedules are not strictly followed. This is a potential, not a known widespread issue for the Highlander. 2. Infotainment Refinements: While the overall system is more mature, minor software quirks or user interface preferences can still arise, though generally less frequent than a brand-new generation's launch. The 2025 Highlander, being a later model year in its generation, is expected to exhibit very high reliability, carrying on Toyota's legacy.
Value & Cost of Ownership
The value proposition for the 2020 and 2025 Highlanders differs significantly due to their status as a used versus new vehicle. Purchase prices: - 2020 Toyota Highlander: As a used vehicle, prices vary widely based on trim, mileage, and condition. Expect to find well-maintained models ranging from approximately $25,000 to $35,000 or more, depending on original MSRP and current market demand. - 2025 Toyota Highlander: New MSRPs will start around $39,500 for the base LE FWD 2.4T and can climb to over $53,000 for a fully loaded Platinum Hybrid AWD model. Insurance costs: Insurance for both vehicles will be relatively similar, though the newer 2025 model may have slightly higher premiums due to its higher replacement cost and more advanced (and potentially more expensive to repair) safety technology. Maintenance costs: Toyota vehicles are known for their low maintenance costs, and the Highlander is no exception. Both models benefit from Toyota's reputation for inexpensive parts and wide availability of certified service centers. The V6 in the 2020 model and the 2.4L turbo in the 2025 model will have similar routine service needs. Hybrid models may have specific checks for their high-voltage battery system at higher mileages, but overall, hybrid maintenance is often comparable or even less than conventional gasoline vehicles in the long run. Resale value: Both the 2020 and 2025 Toyota Highlanders exhibit excellent resale value, which is a hallmark of the Toyota brand. The 2025 model will naturally depreciate slower initially as a new car, but the 2020 model, having already absorbed the initial depreciation, will hold its value remarkably well as a used vehicle, making it a smart long-term investment.
Editorial Verdict
Choosing between a 2020 and 2025 Toyota Highlander depends heavily on individual priorities and budget. Best for families: Both are excellent choices for families, offering three rows of seating and strong safety ratings. The 2025 model might edge out slightly due to the updated Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system with its enhanced capabilities and standard wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto for modern convenience. Best for commuters: The 2025 Highlander Hybrid is the top pick for commuters due to its class-leading fuel economy of 36 combined MPG. The 2020 Hybrid also offers identical fuel efficiency. For those preferring gasoline, the 2025's 2.4L turbo engine provides slightly better combined MPG than the 2020's V6. Best for enthusiasts: Neither the 2020 nor the 2025 Highlander are designed with enthusiasts in mind; they prioritize comfort and practicality. However, the 2020's V6 offers a smoother, more traditional power delivery, while the 2025's turbo provides a bit more low-end punch for everyday driving feel. Best value overall: The 2020 Toyota Highlander offers the best value overall. As a used vehicle, it provides nearly identical cargo space, passenger comfort, and similar strong reliability as the newer model, but at a significantly lower purchase price. For buyers who prioritize saving money while still getting a modern, capable, and dependable three-row SUV, a well-maintained 2020 Highlander is a compelling option. The 2025 model is ideal for those who must have the latest technology, a new car warranty, and the newest turbo engine or continued excellent hybrid efficiency.
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