24 MPG combined makes the 2025 Toyota Highlander AWD 2.4L 4-cyl a competitive, though not class-leading, offering in the fiercely contested three-row mid-size SUV segment. This isn’t a vehicle chasing outright efficiency records. It’s a family hauler built for reliability, comfort, and all-weather confidence, and its fuel economy reflects a pragmatic balance of power and thrift. Buyers of the Highlander are typically those with two or more children, often living in suburban or exurban areas, who need the peace of mind all-wheel drive provides for inclement weather or trips to the mountains. They value dependability more than flashy performance and strong resale value over cutting-edge technology. For them, 24 MPG combined represents a sensible operating cost for a vehicle that capably covers all their family’s needs without resorting to a more complex, and often more expensive, hybrid powertrain.

City and highway performance

The Highlander’s 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, achieves 21 MPG in city driving and 28 MPG on the highway. This spread is typical for a combustion-engined SUV of this size and weight. The city figure, 21 MPG, is respectable for a vehicle of this footprint operating in stop-and-go conditions. The turbocharger helps the 2.4L engine deliver its 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque effectively without excessive thirst, particularly off the line. On the highway, the 8-speed automatic allows the engine to settle into lower RPMs, contributing to the 28 MPG figure. This highway economy makes the Highlander a capable road trip vehicle, offering a decent cruising range before needing to stop for fuel. The AWD system, while providing traction benefits, does add a minor penalty to fuel consumption compared to front-wheel-drive variants, but for the target audience, that’s a trade-off they gladly make for enhanced security.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the 2025 Toyota Highlander AWD 2.4L 4-cyl will cost its owner approximately $1,800 annually for fuel. This figure is derived from the assumption of driving 15,000 miles per year, split between city and highway driving, using readily available regular gasoline and based on national average fuel prices at the time of the calculation. It serves as a useful benchmark for comparing running costs across different vehicles. For a family purchasing a car in this segment, $1,800 per year represents a predictable and manageable expense, contributing to the overall ownership value that the Highlander has built its reputation on. This isn’t a budget for fuel that comes as a shock; it aligns with expectations for a modern gasoline-powered three-row SUV.

Real-world expectations

In real-world driving, the 2025 Toyota Highlander AWD 2.4L 4-cyl typically delivers numbers very close to its EPA ratings. Toyota is known for conservative EPA estimates, meaning many owners find their actual mileage to be quite consistent with, or even slightly better than, the official figures. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips in cold weather, or consistently carrying a full load of passengers and cargo will, of course, nudge the numbers down. Conversely, drivers who primarily undertake highway commutes at steady speeds and employ smooth driving habits will often see the high end of the 28 MPG highway rating, or even exceed it. The Highlander’s mission is never about being a performance leader or a hyper-miler; it’s about predictable, consistent, and dependable transportation. Its fuel economy mirrors that philosophy, providing no major surprises or disappointments.

How it compares

The 2025 Toyota Highlander AWD 2.4L 4-cyl finds itself in a crowded segment, and its 24 MPG combined rating is squarely in the middle of the pack for non-hybrid three-row SUVs. Consider the Honda Pilot TrailSport, at 20 MPG combined (18 City/23 Highway), which sacrifices some efficiency for more off-road capability. The Kia Telluride AWD, a perennial bestseller, achieves 21 MPG combined (19 City/24 Highway) in its X-Line trim. Even the new Mazda CX-90 AWD, with its mild-hybrid turbo inline-six, comes in at 24 MPG combined (23 City/27 Highway) for its 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus trim, showing how competitive the Highlander’s 4-cylinder truly is against more advanced powertrains. For those prioritizing maximum efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid remains the king, offering 36 MPG combined (35 City/35 Highway) for its AWD variants, but at a higher initial cost. The 2.4L AWD Highlander exists as a good value for those who desire the Toyota reliability and space without the premium of the hybrid system, knowing they are still getting a strong fuel economy number relative to its direct gasoline-only peers. More info on all Toyota fuel economy data can be found by following the link, including HIGHLANDER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the easiest and most effective ways to ensure your Highlander is achieving its best possible fuel economy. Check your tires monthly, especially before longer trips, and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure found on the driver’s side door jamb placard. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and force the engine to work harder than necessary.

Smooth and deliberate driving habits significantly impact real-world fuel economy. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume more fuel than gradual inputs. Anticipate traffic flow and coast to stops when possible, allowing the Highlander’s transmission to operate efficiently.

Managing additional weight in the vehicle can also improve efficiency. Remove unnecessary items from the cargo area, especially heavy ones. While the Highlander is designed to carry a family and their gear, shedding unneeded ballast for daily commutes will marginally reduce fuel consumption.

Regular maintenance, following Toyota’s recommended schedule, is crucial for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. This includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and delivers better mileage over its lifespan.