Why the 2025 Grand Highlander Hybrid Is the Ultimate Family Vehicle for BC Adventures

September 30 2025,

Why the 2025 Grand Highlander Hybrid Is the Ultimate Family Vehicle for BC Adventures

British Columbia families need a vehicle that works as hard as they do. From getting kids to school in Vancouver traffic to hauling camping gear up the Sea-to-Sky Highway, your SUV has to handle it all. The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid delivers three full rows of space, proven hybrid efficiency, and the safety technology BC drivers count on.

This three-row SUV brings Toyota's hybrid expertise to a family-sized package. With room for up to eight passengers, 2,761 litres of maximum cargo space, and a towing capacity of 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs), it handles the full range of family life in British Columbia. Add Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 and all-wheel drive as standard, and you have a vehicle built for BC roads and BC adventures.

Three Rows That Actually Fit Your Family

The Grand Highlander Hybrid solves the biggest problem with three-row SUVs: cramped third-row seating. Toyota designed this vehicle with adult-sized space in all three rows. Your teenagers won't complain about the back seat on the drive to Whistler. Grandparents can ride comfortably on weekend trips to the Okanagan.

You can choose between two seating configurations depending on your family's needs:

  • Eight-passenger layout with second-row bench seating (available on XLE and Limited trims)
  • Seven-passenger layout with second-row captain's chairs for added comfort (standard on Platinum, available on Limited)

Front seats come with 10-way power adjustment for the driver and 8-way power adjustment for the passenger. Heated front seats are standard across all trims. SofTex upholstery on the XLE provides durability for active families, while leather seating on Limited and Platinum trims adds refinement.

Cargo Space for Camping Gear, Sports Equipment, and Everything Else

BC families carry a lot. Ski equipment in winter, mountain bikes in summer, camping gear year-round. The Grand Highlander Hybrid provides 2,761 litres (97.5 cubic feet) of maximum cargo capacity with all seats folded. Even with all three rows in use, you still get 586 litres (20.7 cubic feet) behind the third row—enough for seven carry-on suitcases.

Smart storage features throughout the cabin help organize smaller items. The wireless charging pad keeps phones powered up. Multiple USB-C ports ensure devices stay charged on long drives. The heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel is standard across all trims.

The power liftgate with kick sensor on Limited and Platinum trims makes loading groceries or gear easier when your hands are full. Wide rear doors provide easy access to the third row, which matters when you're loading kids and equipment in a parking lot.

Hybrid Efficiency for Vancouver to Whistler and Beyond

The Toyota Hybrid System in the Grand Highlander combines a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. The result: 243 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque with fuel consumption ratings of 6.6/7.4/7.0 L/100 km (city/highway/combined).

That efficiency matters on BC highways. The drive from Vancouver to Whistler covers 125 kilometres each way. The trip to the Okanagan is longer. Better fuel economy means fewer stops and more time enjoying your destination.

All-wheel drive comes standard on every Grand Highlander Hybrid. Three drive modes—Sport, Eco, and Normal—let you adjust performance based on conditions. The Eco mode maximizes efficiency during city driving. Sport mode adds responsiveness when you need to merge onto Highway 1. Normal mode provides balanced performance for everyday use.

The hybrid system doesn't compromise capability. Towing capacity reaches 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs), enough for a camping trailer or boat. The sealed nickel-metal hydride battery is proven in millions of Toyota hybrids worldwide.

2025 Grand Highlander Hybrid Trims

XLE

The XLE trim starts your family in hybrid efficiency with seating for eight. The 12.3-inch Toyota Multimedia system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. A 7-inch multi-information display provides trip data and vehicle information.

Standard features include:

  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • SofTex upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror with garage door opener
  • Wireless charging pad
  • Six-speaker audio system

Service Connect, Safety Connect, and Remote Connect come with a trial subscription, giving you access to vehicle health reports, emergency assistance, and remote start through the Toyota app.

Limited

The Limited trim is available in both seven-passenger and eight-passenger configurations. The seven-passenger version features second-row captain's chairs with a removable centre console. The eight-passenger version uses a second-row bench seat—a new configuration for 2025.

Limited upgrades include:

  • 20-inch alloy wheels
  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Heated second-row seats
  • 12.3-inch multi-information display
  • 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio system
  • Panoramic moonroof
  • Power liftgate with kick sensor
  • LED fog lights
  • Driver's seat memory system
  • Digital key

The Toyota Multimedia system adds Drive Connect capability. Rain-sensing wipers, power-folding mirrors with memory, and a 120V power outlet add convenience. Puddle lamps project the Grand Highlander logo when you approach the vehicle.

Safety upgrades on the Limited include the Panoramic View Monitor for easier parking and the Rear Cross Traffic Alert system with automatic braking.

Platinum Hybrid MAX


The Platinum trim switches to the Hybrid MAX powertrain, which transforms the driving experience. This system uses a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The result: 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.

The Hybrid MAX system increases towing capacity to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs)—enough for larger trailers and boats. Paddle shifters give you direct control over gear selection. The multi-terrain select system with dial knob helps optimize traction on different surfaces.

Platinum interior upgrades include:

  • Premium leather seats with suede accents
  • Heated and ventilated second-row seats
  • Digital rearview mirror
  • Head-up display

Additional safety features on the Platinum include Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross Traffic Alert. These technologies work together to reduce driver fatigue on long highway drives and improve awareness in busy parking lots.

Trim

Seating

Horsepower

Torque

Towing Capacity

Key Features

XLE

8 passengers

243 hp

233 lb-ft

1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)

SofTex seats, 18-inch wheels, wireless charging

Limited (7 or 8 passengers)

7 or 8 passengers

243 hp

233 lb-ft

1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)

Leather seats, panoramic moonroof, JBL audio, power liftgate

Platinum Hybrid MAX

7 passengers

362 hp

400 lb-ft

2,268 kg (5,000 lbs)

Turbocharged hybrid, heated/ventilated second row, head-up display

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 for BC Roads

Vancouver streets, mountain highways, and rural roads all present different challenges. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 provides active safety features that work across all driving conditions.

The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection helps prevent or reduce the severity of frontal collisions. It's particularly valuable in busy Vancouver intersections where pedestrians and cyclists share the road.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead on Highway 1 or the Coquihalla. Lane Tracing Assist helps keep the vehicle centred in its lane, reducing fatigue on long drives.

Other Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 features include:

  • Lane Departure Alert with steering assist
  • Automatic High Beams
  • Road Sign Assist
  • Proactive Driving Assist

The Blind Spot Monitor System with Safe Exit Assist is standard across all trims. This system warns rear passengers if a vehicle is approaching when they're about to open the door—a helpful feature in busy parking lots.

The Star Safety System includes Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology. Ten airbags provide protection for all three rows.

Technology That Keeps Families Connected

The 12.3-inch Toyota Multimedia system is standard across all Grand Highlander Hybrid trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration means your phone connects automatically when you get in. The Toyota Assistant voice control system responds to natural voice commands, letting you adjust climate control, navigate, or change audio sources without taking your hands off the wheel.

The XLE includes a six-speaker audio system that's clear and balanced. Limited and Platinum trims upgrade to the 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio system, which delivers concert-quality sound throughout the cabin.

Six USB-C charging ports ensure every passenger can keep devices powered up. The wireless charging pad in the front console handles compatible smartphones.

Service Connect provides vehicle health reports and maintenance reminders through the Toyota app. Safety Connect includes emergency assistance, stolen vehicle locator, and roadside assistance. Remote Connect lets you start the vehicle, lock or unlock doors, and check vehicle status from your smartphone.

Built for British Columbia's Climate and Terrain

All-wheel drive is standard on every Grand Highlander Hybrid. This system continuously monitors traction and adjusts power distribution between the front and rear wheels. It helps maintain stability on wet Vancouver streets in winter and provides confidence on gravel forest service roads in summer.

Ground clearance of 203 mm (8 inches) gives you clearance over rocks on backcountry trails and helps navigate snowbanks during winter. The approach angle of 17 degrees and departure angle of 23 degrees mean you won't scrape the bumpers on steep driveways or uneven terrain.

Heated front seats are standard across all trims. Limited and Platinum trims add heated second-row seats—a feature your passengers will appreciate during winter trips. The heated steering wheel is standard on all models.

The panoramic moonroof on Limited and Platinum trims brings natural light into the cabin and gives passengers a view of BC's landscapes. Rain-sensing wipers on these trims adjust automatically to changing conditions.

Your Next Family Adventure Starts at Regency Toyota

The 2025 Grand Highlander Hybrid handles the demands of family life in British Columbia. Three full rows of seating accommodate everyone. Hybrid efficiency reduces fuel costs on long drives. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 provides confidence on city streets and mountain highways. Cargo space holds everything from weekly groceries to camping equipment for a week in the backcountry.

Visit Regency Toyota in Vancouver to experience the Grand Highlander Hybrid firsthand. Our team can walk you through the differences between XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims and help you find the configuration that fits your family's needs. Schedule your test drive today and see how this three-row hybrid performs on British Columbia roads.