NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2025 Toyota Highlander
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Toyota Highlander is a three-row midsize SUV that has been a cornerstone of the family hauler segment for over two decades. Aimed squarely at households that need real passenger capacity without the bulk of a full-size truck-based SUV, the Highlander competes in one of the most contested and safety-scrutinized segments on the market. Our coverage spans the 2019 through 2025 model years.
The 2025 Toyota Highlander earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 88 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Toyota Highlander as a polished, family-friendly midsize SUV that prioritizes comfort and practicality. Most praise its composed ride, intuitive cabin layout, and strong reputation for mainstream appeal. Critics occasionally note that performance and driving engagement fall behind some rivals, but the overall consensus positions it as a sensible, well-rounded choice in the competitive three-row segment.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 20271
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:ANCHORAGE25V872000
Risk: A seat belt that does not properly restrain an occupant increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will reinstall the seat belt anchor with a new bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 27, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 25TA16.
Reported 2025-12-17
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION25V744000
Risk: A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the parking assist software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB13 and 25LB06. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE25.
Reported 2025-10-30
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL25V595000
Risk: An instrument panel display that does not show critical information can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument panel software over-the-air (OTA) for non-PHEV vehicles, free of charge. For PHEV vehicles, dealers will inspect the instrument panel assembly, and either replace it, or update the software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 5, 2025. Additional letters will be sent, anticipated in May 2026. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Toyota's cus
Reported 2025-09-11
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
7 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.