Toyota rolled out the red carpet in beautiful Kona Island, Hawaii, to reveal two of their most anticipated vehicle years, the 2024 re-designed 2024 Toyota Tacoma and the all-new 2024 Grand Highlander. With this much fanfare, anticipation/expectations were high, but were expectations met?
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is the latest addition to Toyota's SUV lineup and is set to hit dealerships this summer. It will be available in three powertrain options: a 2.4L turbo gas engine, a 2.5L hybrid, and a high-performance hybrid MAX with 362 horsepower. The starting prices for the Grand Highlander will be $43,070 for the gas engine models, $44,670 for the hybrid, and $54,040 for the Hybrid MAX.
Toyota has designed the Grand Highlander to be versatile, suitable for everyday use and long road trips. It is assembled at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Princeton, Indiana, and is part of Toyota's efforts to achieve carbon neutrality. The Grand Highlander Hybrid and Hybrid MAX support Toyota's goal of a "Beyond Zero" future, focusing on carbon neutrality in products, services, and operations.
The Grand Highlander offers three powertrain options with different efficiency ratings. The gas engine model has an EPA-estimated 24 combined MPG, the hybrid has an EPA-estimated 36 combined MPG, and the Hybrid MAX has an EPA-estimated 27 combined MPG. All powertrains have three drive modes (Sport, Eco, Normal) for a more engaging driving experience.
In terms of design, the Grand Highlander features a distinctive and beautiful exterior with a trapezoidal hammerhead front grille and available 20" wheels. The interior is spacious and offers comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The dashboard has a soft-padded instrument panel and high-quality stitchwork, creating a modern and refined interior.
The Grand Highlander is equipped with the latest technology from Toyota, including a 12.3-inch multimedia display, wireless charger, and Toyota's Traffic Jam Assist technology (available in the Platinum grade). It also features Toyota's Audio Multimedia system with Bluetooth phone connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and available Wi-Fi Connect.
Safety features include Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Road Sign Assist. The Grand Highlander also offers additional safety and convenience features such as Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, and a Panoramic View Monitor.
The Grand Highlander is available in XLE, Limited, and Platinum grades. Each grade offers different exterior and interior features, with the Platinum grade being the most luxurious option.
Overall, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander aims to provide a versatile and comfortable SUV option with a range of powertrain choices and advanced features.
How Does The Grand Highlander Stack Up?
Toyota has long been known for manufacturing reliable and family-friendly vehicles, and their latest offering, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, is no exception. With its three-row seating, ample cargo space, and an array of advanced features, this SUV aims to cater to the needs of modern families. Let's explore the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander's pros and cons and how it stacks up against other three-row SUVs in the market.
Pros:
Spacious Interior: One of the standout features of the Grand Highlander is its adult-sized third-row seating. This means that even taller passengers can enjoy long journeys comfortably. Additionally, the SUV offers ample cargo space, making it ideal for families with lots of gear or those planning road trips.
Multiple Powertrain Options: The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has three powertrain options, including hybrid variants. This allows families to choose a model that suits their driving preferences and environmental concerns. The hybrid and hybrid MAX powertrains not only offer reduced carbon emissions but also provide impressive fuel efficiency.
Powerful Performance: The Hybrid MAX system in the Grand Highlander delivers an impressive 362 horsepower. This ensures that the SUV has plenty of power when needed, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising.
Advanced Safety Features: Toyota has equipped the Grand Highlander with a range of cutting-edge safety technologies. Features like Traffic Jam Assist, Head-Up Display, and Digital Rearview Mirror enhance the overall driving experience and provide added peace of mind for families.
Cons:
Higher Price Point: As with many high-end SUVs, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has a relatively higher price tag than some of its competitors. While the features and quality justify the cost, it may deter budget-conscious families.
Limited Off-Road Capabilities: Although the Grand Highlander offers excellent on-road performance, there may be better choices for those seeking adventurous off-road experiences. The SUV is more suited for urban and suburban environments rather than rugged terrains.
Comparison with Other Three-Row SUVs:
When comparing the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander to other three-row SUVs in the market, several factors come into play:
Honda Pilot: The Grand Highlander offers a more refined interior and a smoother ride than the Honda Pilot. It also has more advanced tech features and a more spacious third row.
Ford Explorer: While the Ford Explorer may have a slight edge in terms of power and towing capacity, the Grand Highlander excels in fuel efficiency, interior comfort, and overall reliability and a more spacious third row.
Kia Telluride: The Telluride provides a luxurious cabin and competitive pricing. However, the Grand Highlander offers more advanced safety features, a wider range of powertrain options, including hybrid variants, and a more spacious third row.
Conclusion:
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment, offering families a combination of space, performance, and advanced features. Its spacious interior, multiple powertrain options, powerful performance, and cutting-edge safety technologies make it attractive. While the higher price point and limited off-road capabilities may be drawbacks for some, the Grand Highlander's overall value and reputation for reliability make it a worthy competitor in the market. Families searching for a versatile and family-friendly SUV should consider the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander a top choice for their next vehicle. Stay tuned for real-world driving impressions soon.
