Toyota Highlander
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.
Seven-seater without dynamics
182 kW 2.5 hybrid in a 7-seater — CVT rubber-band and 2 tonnes of kerb weight make driving fun impossible. Travelling SUV for families, not for drivers.
Engine Weaknesses 6
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
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
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
Toyota issued a TSB (T-TT-0614-20) for 2020 A25A-FXS engines: coolant leak at the housing or connector of the electric water pump.
Symptoms: Check engine light, coolant traces on the engine underside, dropping coolant level
In predominantly urban short-trip use the A25A-FXS hybrid engine does not reach operating temperature long enough to drive off fuel and condensation moisture from the oil. Oil dilution and increased bearing wear can result.
Symptoms: Oil level rises instead of dropping, oil smells of petrol, engine oil becomes watery and cloudy, increased wear
The A25A-FXS shares the risk of oil loss at sealing surfaces with other Dynamic Force engines. Long-term data is still limited at high mileage — seals should be inspected thoroughly.
Symptoms: Dropping oil level, oil spots under the vehicle, faint burning smell
Vehicle Weaknesses 12
The CVT is cited as a weak point: loud and unrefined under hard acceleration.
The high-voltage battery can age prematurely during long periods of inactivity or in extreme heat.
Several Highlander XU70 owners report annoying wind noise in crosswinds from the door area.
Some Highlander XU70s show defective panel gaps and inconsistent sealing lines.
The hybrid drivetrain requires a new fuel tank design. Many owners can only fill 60–70% of the tank capacity (17 gallons / 64 litres) as the fuel nozzle cuts off prematurely.
The hybrid brake system switches between regenerative and hydraulic braking. Some owners report an imprecise, soft pedal feel, especially as the vehicle ages.
Panel gaps and body transitions show some manufacturing inconsistencies. Incorrectly seated door seals lead to increased wind noise in crosswinds.
The hybrid drivetrain requires a new fuel tank design. Many owners can only fill 60–70% of the tank capacity (17 gallons / 64 litres) as the fuel nozzle cuts off prematurely.
The hybrid brake system switches between regenerative and hydraulic braking. Some owners report an imprecise, soft pedal feel, especially as the vehicle ages.
Panel gaps and body transitions show some manufacturing inconsistencies. Incorrectly seated door seals lead to increased wind noise in crosswinds.
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.
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.
Reports & Tests
773 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2021–2025). Most reported: Powertrain (192), Other (131), Brakes (119).