If you're looking for a spacious, comfortable, and efficient family SUV, check out the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander. This new model is a stretched version of the popular Highlander, offering more room for passengers and cargo and more power and technology options. Here are some of the highlights of this grand SUV.
More Space for Everyone
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is about 6 inches longer than the regular Toyota Highlander, with most of the extra length going to the third row. This means that adults can sit comfortably in the back without feeling cramped or claustrophobic. The Grand Highlander also offers up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, which is more than enough for your luggage, groceries, or camping gear. Plus, you get a power-operated liftgate and a hands-free feature on higher trims for easy loading and unloading.
Three Powertrains to Choose From
The new Toyota Grand Highlander gives you three different powertrain options, depending on your preferences and needs. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder that makes 265 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive. This engine delivers decent acceleration and fuel economy, but it's not very exciting to drive.
The next option is the hybrid powertrain, which combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors for a total output of 243 horsepower. This powertrain comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and either front- or all-wheel drive. The hybrid offers better fuel efficiency than the base engine and smoother and quieter operation. However, it's not very quick or responsive, especially when passing or merging.
The most interesting option is the Hybrid Max powertrain, which pairs the turbocharged 2.4-liter with an electric motor for a whopping 362 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain also comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Hybrid Max offers the bunch's best performance and driving dynamics, with strong acceleration, sharp handling, and confident braking. It also has a sport mode that enhances the throttle response and steering feel.
A Host of Technology Features
The Toyota Grand Highlander has many technology features to make your life easier and more enjoyable. The standard infotainment system features a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a wireless charging pad. You also get a digital key feature that lets you use your smartphone to lock, unlock, start, and share your vehicle with others.
Other available features include a head-up display, a surround-view camera system, a panoramic sunroof, a JBL premium sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs, a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 11.6-inch screens, and ambient lighting.
A Suite of Safety Features
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander also comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features to help you avoid or mitigate collisions. Every model comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes:
- - Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- - Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control
- - Lane departure alert with steering assist
- - Lane tracing assist
- - Road sign assist
- - Automatic high beams
Other available features include blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking assist with automatic braking, rear pedestrian detection, and an adaptive front lighting system.
How Much Does It Cost?
The new Toyota Grand Highlander is only offered in three trim levels: XLE, Limited, and Platinum. The base XLE starts at $43,070 for the front-wheel-drive turbocharged model and $44,465 for the hybrid model. The Limited starts at $47,570 for the turbocharged model and $48,965 for the hybrid model. The Platinum starts at $51,570 for the turbocharged model and $52,965 for the hybrid model.
The Hybrid Max powertrain is only available on the Limited and Platinum trims, and it adds $3,000 to the price. All-wheel drive is also optional on all models except the Hybrid Max ones, and it adds $1,600 to the price.
Is It Worth It?
The Grand Highlander is a great choice for families who need a lot of space and versatility in their SUVs. It offers more room than most of its rivals in this segment and plenty of features and options to suit different tastes and budgets. The Hybrid Max powertrain is also a standout feature that sets it apart from the competition, offering impressive performance and efficiency.
However, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander could be better. It's not very stylish or distinctive, and it lacks some of the personality and flair of other SUVs in this class. It's also quite expensive, especially when you opt for the higher trims and the Hybrid Max powertrain. You might find better value and more fun in other models, such as the Kia Telluride, the Hyundai Palisade, the Chevrolet Traverse, or the Ford Bronco.
The Bottom Line
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is a grand SUV that offers your family a lot of space, comfort, and technology. It also gives you three powertrain options to choose from, including a powerful and efficient Hybrid Max system. However, it's not very exciting to look at or drive, and it can get pricey when you add all the bells and whistles. If you're looking for a spacious and practical family SUV, the Grand Highlander might be the one for you. But you might look elsewhere if you want something more stylish and engaging.
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