Our SUV of the Year 2024 (SUVOTY), where each vehicle is evaluated based on our six key criteria: efficiency, design, safety, engineering excellence, value, and performance of the desired function. Eligible vehicles must be all new or significantly revised.
The Highlander has been a popular SUV for Toyota, but it needs a larger third row to be truly competitive in the market. Problem solved with the 2024 Grand Highlander, which is not only a stretched Highlander but also benefits from nameplate branding. With an additional 4 inches in wheelbase and overall length, as well as greater width and height, these seven- or eight-passenger SUVs offer a more comfortable third row and more cargo space.
The new Grand Highlander is available with several powertrain options: a turbocharged I-4, a hybrid using Toyota's traditional Hybrid Synergy Drive, or a Hybrid Max that uses both front and rear motors for a range of 619 miles. Gas and Hybrid Max can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Prices range from about $44,600 to $60,000 for the Platinum Hybrid Max, and you can get the hybrid for about $1,500 more than the base XLE. But more premium ingredients are needed up top, says buyer's guide director Zach Gale.
The exterior lacks personality, said associate editor Alex Leanse. “It's like Toyota cut some parts from the 4Runner, borrowed some cues from the RAV4, put them together, then diluted the result,” he said.
In particular, the Grand Highlander is a large vehicle and not at all enjoyable when it comes to handling. The gas engine can be harsh, and we wish the eight-speed shifts were smoother. Some judges preferred the gas Grand Highlander for its lighter weight, while others favored the hybrid for its extra power. "It's quicker to squeal the tires, but there's a sense that it's a heavier vehicle," technical director Frank Markus said of the vehicle. The suspension works well on poor surfaces, thanks to Toyota's well-engineered TNGA-K platform. Judges were divided on whether they liked the light steering.
The firm brake pedal was difficult for some judges to modulate; Mexican editor Miguel Cortina reported he had to step on it to a complete stop while driving with five passengers. We'd love to see Toyota retune the brakes, stat.
The Grand Highlander's interior feels bland, the best of which is found in the Hybrid Max Limited with reddish gold trim serving to liven up the black-on-black overall. But the Grand Highlander is equipped with cupholders, a USB outlet, and practical storage, including a shelf for the front passenger's cell phone and glasses. The screen is a decent size, but the center screen isn't well integrated into the dashboard. Features editor Scott Evans was bothered by the incomprehensible rocker switch for the climate control, as well as the fisheye effect on the backup camera.
You can remove the center console between the second-row captain's chairs to provide direct access to the third row, or simply grab the latch on the seat's shoulder to pull it forward. This creates decent space to reach the third row, but the latches are clumsy and require some force to pull the seats forward. The seats are comfortable—heated and (optionally) ventilated in the front. Second-row passengers can get heated seats, and they also get HVAC controls.
Overall, the cabin feels roomy but needs better content to justify the price of the top trim. This includes the desire for a door that doesn't sound tinny when you close it. Ultimately, the Grand Highlander is a solid family vehicle, and all of our judges had different favorite versions, which shows the power of choice.
Specifications for the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum AWD
Base Price/As Tested $54,940/$55,365
Power (SAE Net) 265 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (SAE Net) 310 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid AWD XLE specifications
Base Price/As Tested $47,665/$49,015
Power (SAE Net) 187 hp @ 6,000 rpm (gas), N/A hp (elec); 245 hp (comb)
Torque (SAE Net) 177 lb-ft @ 4,300 rpm (gas); N/A (comb)
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Limited AWD Specifications
Base Price/As Tested $55,435/$57,810
Power (SAE net) 265 hp @ 6,000 rpm (gas), N/A hp (fr/rr elec); 362 hp (comb)
Torque (SAE net) 332 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm (gas), N/A lb-ft (fr/rr elec); 400 lb-ft (comb)
