The Toyota Grand Highlander is a refined and larger version of the popular Highlander SUV. Designed to meet the demands of families who seek space, performance, and advanced technology, the Grand Highlander represents Toyota’s response to the rising market for midsize and full-size SUVs. It delivers more interior room, powerful hybrid options, and the high safety standards Toyota is known for. This article provides a detailed review of its history, key characteristics, pricing, and performance.
The History of the Toyota Grand Highlander
Origin and Launch
The Toyota Grand Highlander was officially introduced in February 2023 at the Chicago Auto Show. This model was developed to offer a larger and more spacious version of the standard Highlander. The vehicle sits between the regular Highlander and the full-size Toyota Sequoia. The aim was to provide a family SUV with a three-row layout, ample cargo space, and high fuel efficiency, especially with hybrid options.
Model Evolution
Unlike the traditional Highlander, the Grand Highlander was designed from the ground up as a roomier and more upscale option. It rides on the TNGA-K platform, the same architecture used by several other Toyota vehicles, including the Camry and RAV4. From its debut, Toyota has aimed the Grand Highlander at consumers looking for something larger than a midsize SUV but not as massive as a truck-based SUV like the Sequoia.
Global and U.S. Market Response
The Grand Highlander has primarily targeted the North American market, where demand for large, three-row family vehicles continues to grow. Its reception has been positive, especially among buyers looking for practical alternatives to full-size SUVs without compromising interior space or comfort.
Key Characteristics of the Toyota Grand Highlander
Exterior Design
The Grand Highlander features a bold, clean design with a modern front grille, LED headlights, and a sculpted body. Its size is one of its most distinguishing features, being 6.5 inches longer than the regular Highlander. The exterior also includes 18- to 20-inch wheels depending on the trim level, giving it a more commanding road presence.
Interior Comfort and Technology
One of the strongest points of the Grand Highlander is its interior. It offers seating for up to eight passengers with ample legroom in all three rows. Unlike some competitors, the third row can accommodate adults comfortably. The cargo space is also larger than the standard Highlander, with up to 97.5 cubic feet of total storage space.
Tech features include a standard 12.3-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB ports, and available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Higher trims offer premium audio, panoramic sunroof, and leather upholstery.
Safety Features
The Grand Highlander is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, the latest suite of advanced driver-assistance features. These include pre-collision with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist. Additional available features include blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system.
Performance of the Toyota Grand Highlander
Engine Options
The Grand Highlander offers three engine options:
- A 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 265 horsepower
- A 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid with 243 horsepower
- A high-performance 2.4-liter turbo Hybrid MAX producing 362 horsepower
The Hybrid MAX is available in the Platinum trim and offers the best performance figures, going from 0 to 60 mph in just over six seconds. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD).
Fuel Efficiency
The fuel economy varies based on the engine. The standard hybrid is the most efficient, with an estimated 36 mpg combined. The turbocharged engine gets around 24 mpg combined, while the Hybrid MAX achieves about 27 mpg combined. These figures make the Grand Highlander one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class.
Driving Experience
Despite its size, the Grand Highlander handles well for a large SUV. The steering is responsive, and the suspension is tuned for comfort. The Hybrid MAX option provides brisk acceleration, while the hybrid version ensures a quiet and smooth ride, ideal for urban and highway driving.
Pricing and Trims of the Toyota Grand Highlander
Base Pricing
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander starts at approximately $43,000 for the base XLE trim. Prices increase with higher trims and added features. The Limited trim starts around $47,000, while the top Platinum Hybrid MAX trim can exceed $58,000 when fully equipped.
Trim Levels and Features
The Grand Highlander is available in multiple trim levels:
- XLE: Includes heated front seats, 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charger, and power liftgate.
- Limited: Adds ventilated front seats, JBL audio system, leather-trimmed seats, and 20-inch wheels.
- Platinum: Features panoramic roof, traffic jam assist, head-up display, and premium interior finishes.
Each trim offers options for front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), with hybrid powertrains available in all trims.
Comparisons and Market Position
Comparison with Standard Highlander
The Grand Highlander offers more room and a more powerful engine lineup compared to the standard Highlander. It is the better option for larger families or those who regularly use the third row. It also offers more cargo space and higher towing capacity, especially with the Hybrid MAX engine.
Competition in the Segment
The Grand Highlander competes with other three-row midsize SUVs such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Mazda CX-90. Among these SUV types, the Grand Highlander stands out for its hybrid options, interior space, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability.
Market Demand and Consumer Appeal
Why Buyers Choose the Grand Highlander
Consumers are drawn to the Grand Highlander for its spacious interior, hybrid fuel economy, and strong safety ratings. The vehicle provides an ideal blend of utility, comfort, and technology. Families particularly appreciate the ease of access to the third row and the generous storage space.
Brand Trust and Recognition
Toyota is one of the most recognized car brands globally. The Grand Highlander benefits from this reputation. Its resale value, low maintenance costs, and wide availability of parts make it a dependable long-term investment.
Technology and Innovation
Advanced Infotainment System
The standard 12.3-inch touchscreen offers a user-friendly interface. It includes cloud-based navigation, voice assistant, and over-the-air software updates. The Grand Highlander also provides a digital key, allowing users to lock/unlock and start the car via smartphone.
Connectivity and Charging
There are seven USB-C ports across all three rows. Wireless charging is standard on most trims. Additionally, Wi-Fi hotspot capability and a rear-seat entertainment package are available for higher trims, ensuring all passengers stay connected.
Environmental Considerations
Hybrid Efficiency
The hybrid and Hybrid MAX options help reduce carbon emissions while maintaining excellent performance. The 2.5-liter hybrid setup is specifically designed for urban commuting with fewer fuel stops and lower emissions.
Toyota’s Green Initiatives
Toyota is investing heavily in sustainability, and the Grand Highlander is part of that vision. The company plans to offer electrified versions of all its models by 2030. The Grand Highlander’s efficient hybrid models align with this goal.
Future Outlook for the Toyota Grand Highlander
Upcoming Features
Toyota is expected to add more advanced tech features and possibly an all-electric version of the Grand Highlander in the future. Updates to infotainment, more autonomous driving capabilities, and increased fuel efficiency are anticipated.
Consumer Trends
As buyers continue to shift toward spacious, hybrid-capable family vehicles, the Grand Highlander is poised for long-term success. It effectively fills a niche for those who want a large SUV without sacrificing fuel efficiency or comfort.
Conclusion
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a bold step forward in the large family SUV segment. With a rich feature set, strong performance options, and leading safety technologies, it answers the call for families needing more space without choosing a full-size SUV. Backed by Toyota’s quality and innovation, the Grand Highlander stands out among the best SUV models currently available.
