Toyota Highlander XU70
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The 4th-gen Highlander (2020–2025) is one of America's top-selling 3-row SUVs — and the powertrain pick defines everything. The Hybrid is the safest buy, the V6 carries a transmission lawsuit, and the 2.4T Turbo Max is unproven.
The 2.5L Hybrid (A25A-FXS, 243 hp combined) is the most reliable drivetrain: 35–38 MPG real-world, eCVT with no mechanical belt to fail, proven Toyota hybrid architecture. Known issues: milky oil in cold-climate short trips (condensation, usually NOT coolant) and electric water pump failures on early 2020 builds ($300–$600, warranty-covered). The 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) + UA80F 8-speed has a solid engine but a transmission lawsuit: high-pitched whine, slipping, complete failure at 60,000–90,000 miles. Class action filed 2025 — plaintiff quoted $7,451 for replacement. The 2.4T Turbo Max (T24A-FTS, 265 hp, 2022+) replaced the V6 — but surging/bucking from stops plagued 2022–early 2023 builds until TSB-0087-23 ECM flash. Premium fuel dependency despite "regular OK" marketing. Long-term durability unproven.
Recalls to check: front bumper detachment (23V720000, 2020–2023), OCS airbag sensor (23V865000, 2020–2021), and the March 2026 seatback recall covering ~590,000 vehicles — the most recent and significant. AC condenser rock chip vulnerability ($1,200–$1,800 replacement) is a common non-recall complaint, especially in sunbelt states.
Test-drive checklist: highway ramp 50–70 MPH (V6: listen for transmission whine), steady throttle from rolling stop (2.4T: surge/hesitation?), condenser fins for rock damage, engine oil dipstick (milky on Hybrid = condensation check), front bumper corners pushed (firmly seated?). Run VIN at nhtsa.gov for all open recalls.
2026 market: 2020 V6 $25,000–$32,000. 2021–2022 Hybrid Platinum $36,000–$42,000 (sweet spot). 2023 Turbo Max $34,000–$44,000. Insider pick: 2021–2022 Highlander Hybrid in any trim except Blizzard Pearl/Super White paint — eCVT avoids the UA80F entirely, all recalls documented on most units, 8-year HV battery warranty likely still active.
Generations
Engine Overview
The Toyota Highlander XU70 is available with 2 engine variants — from 155 to 305 hp.
Flagship fourth-generation hybrid with Dynamic Force technology. Extremely economical for a vehicle of this size (under 5 l/100 km in the Camry). Timing chain, no known weaknesses so far. The gold standard for hybrid reliability.
- !! Hybrid Battery: Moisture and Heat Protection from 150,000 km
The hybrid battery in the RAV4 XA50 with A25A-FXS sits under the rear seat and can be damaged by moisture. Blocked ventilation slots lead to battery overheating.
Symptoms: Hybrid warning light, reduced battery output, 'Check Hybrid System' message, in severe cases complete battery failure - !! EGR System Clogged and EGR Cooler Leaking from 130,000 km
The EGR system on the A25A-FXS tends to clog with deposits from approximately 130,000 km. The EGR cooler develops cracks and allows coolant to enter the EGR circuit.
Symptoms: Power loss; foul smell while driving; low coolant level; fault messages on the instrument cluster - !! Timing Chain Wear as Known Weak Point from 160,000 km
The timing chain is considered a weak point on the A25A-FXS and should be inspected preventively at approximately 150,000 km. The frequent engine start/stop cycles in hybrid operation increase the load.
Symptoms: Rattle on start-up; metallic noise from the timing chain area; slightly rough idle
+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
3.5L V6 with D-4ST dual injection (direct + port). 278 hp in the 3rd Gen Tacoma. Intake valve carbon buildup from direct injection — budget for walnut blasting every 60k miles. Oil consumption elevated on a few examples.
- !! Intake valve carbon buildup — walnut blasting every 60k miles recommended from 100,000 km
D-4ST system: despite port injection, carbon accumulates on intake valves. Walnut blasting every 60k miles recommended.
Symptoms: Rough idle, power loss, misfires, blue smoke on cold start - !! High oil consumption — up to 1 qt per 1,000 miles in some cases from 80,000 km
Up to 1 quart per 1,000 miles documented in some cases. Engine replacement under warranty in rare instances.
Symptoms: Oil level drop between changes, blue smoke - !! Electric Water Pump Failure from 130,000 km
Electric water pump can fail, causing overheating. Less common than carbon buildup but documented.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Wind Noise and Interior Noise Several Highlander XU70 owners report annoying wind noise in crosswinds from the door area. Symptoms: Whistling in crosswinds, rattling from door trim panels. from 60,000 km | Low | |
| Seat Comfort Limited for Tall Drivers Taller drivers report seat cushions that are too narrow and an unfavourable steering column position. With optimal leg position, the steering wheel is too far away, causing arm fatigue. Symptoms: Arm fatigue on longer drives, uncomfortable seating position for drivers over 185 cm due to suboptimal relationship between backrest, cushion and steering wheel distance. | Low | |
| Seat Comfort Limited for Tall Drivers Taller drivers report seat cushions that are too narrow and an unfavourable steering column position. With optimal leg position, the steering wheel is too far away, causing arm fatigue. Symptoms: Arm fatigue on longer drives, uncomfortable seating position for drivers over 185 cm due to suboptimal relationship between backrest, cushion and steering wheel distance. | Low |
Top Reported Issues
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Explore more
Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 21 weaknesses have been documented for the Toyota Highlander XU70 (2021–2025) — 9 engine-related and 12 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Interior, Gearbox, Body, Electronics. Considered reliable: 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4ST).
Highlander (A25A-FXS, 2021–2025) — Be Careful: Hybrid Battery: Moisture and Heat Protection, EGR System Clogged and EGR Cooler Leaking, Timing Chain Wear as Known Weak Point. Power: 190 PS.
What to watch out for with the Toyota Highlander? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Toyota Highlander XU70 have? +
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Which Toyota Highlander XU70 engine is the most fun? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee