The Toyota Highlander is already the best-selling 3-row SUV in the U.S. so one could be forgiven if they expected the Grand Highlander to simply be a longer Highlander. Just add some more space for 3rd-row passengers and call it day. When the Grand Highlander was unveiled at the 2023 Chicago Auto Show, there was a bit of collective shock that the Grand Highlander was significantly more grand than expected.
Everyone guessed right about the length, though. Compared to the current Highlander, the 2024 Grand Highlander has 4 more inches between the axles and is 6.5 inches longer overall, with 5.5 of those inches going directly to increasing 3rd-row legroom. And, the new SUV is also 2.0 inches taller and 2.3 inches wider, which goes directly to adding an inch more headroom and 2 additional inches of shoulder space throughout the cabin. When fully configured to carry things rather than people, the Grand Highlander boasts 98 cubic feet of cargo space, a 16% increase over the Highlander.
An All-New Design for the Interior
Heading up the cabin is a redesigned dash. The 12.3-inch screen and gauge cluster found on upper-level Highlanders is standard across the Grand Highlander model line. Followed by a sleek dash design flowing into the side doors, while in the front are armrests integrated into the seats so the center console lid can be opened even as arms continue to rest. On Limited and Platinum grades, drivers will enjoy leather-trimmed seats with 10-way power adjustment and 8-way power adjustment for the front passenger. Also available are Ultrasuede® and leather-trimmed seats with bronze-colored accents, like those first seen on the Highlander Bronze Edition.
Exterior Shares Design Language with Sequoia and RAV4
Pulling all the larger dimensions together is a completely new exterior design. Both the upright front grille openings and sides exhibit sharp angles and creases as seen in both the Sequoia and RAV4. A solid build, stronger with more spot welds and adhesives. The result is a quieter ride and better isolation from bumps and road vibrations.
Three Drivetrains
As a Grand Highlander buyer, you will have an option of three drivetrains, two of which are presently offered in the Highlander. Power figures have not been announced yet, but the base engine is a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes 265 hp through an 8-speed automatic in the existing Highlander. Next up is the Highlander’s hybrid drivetrain with a 2.5-liter normally aspirated engine combined with two electric motors for 243 total horsepower.
The most potent Grand Highlander drivetrain will be the Hybrid Max. Recently introduced in the Crown, this is a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 combined with front and rear electric motors and a 6-speed automatic. For the Grand Highlander, the drivetrain will produce a combined 362 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of peak torque. Similar to the Crown, all Grand Highlanders with the Hybrid Max will be all-wheel drive and retain a 5000 lb. maximum towing capacity.
“There is definitely a need in the market for a midsize SUV that prioritizes interior comfort in all three rows and Grand Highlander is the ultimate option,” said Lisa Materazzo, group vice president of Toyota Marketing. “This 3-row model takes the Highlander legacy to an entirely new space while also keeping on our promise to deliver on electrification. Highlander was the first model in its segment to offer a hybrid powertrain back in 2006 and Grand Highlander further expands on our electrification leadership.”
Awaiting the announcement and arrival of the 2024 Grand Highlander in our Valley Hi Toyota showroom, with a projection of later 2023. Given the “grander” appeal of this awe-inspiring Grand Highlander, your new Toyota adventure can begin. Inquire with our Valley Hi Toyota representatives to place you on the list to be notified when we are provided further information. Stop by our Valley Hi Toyota showroom to test drive the current Highlander and Sequoia to fill your 3rd-row SUV seating needs.
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
- Toyota Prius Prime Is Listed by ACEEE as the Greenest Car You Can Buy
- Camry Earns Both Best Midsize and Best Hybrid Car by U.S. News & World Report
- Tacoma TRD OFF-Road is the Undisputed Winner in Car and Driver Comparison with Colorado ZR2
- The Legendary Land Cruiser Returns for 2024
- U.S. News & World Report Names Highlander Hybrid the Best Hybrid SUV for Families