Toyota has finally filled the gap in its SUV lineup with the introduction of the 2024 Grand Highlander. This all-new, three-row SUV sits comfortably above the popular Highlander, offering more space, power, and features to take on established rivals in the fiercely competitive American market. We recently had the opportunity to take the top-of-the-line Hybrid Max Platinum trim for a spin, and here’s a detailed first-drive review exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and how it stacks up against the competition.
First Impressions – Size Matters:
The first thing that strikes you about the Grand Highlander is its sheer size. It’s noticeably larger than the Highlander in every dimension, with a longer wheelbase translating to more passenger and cargo space. The design language leans towards a more contemporary aesthetic compared to the Highlander, with sharp lines and a bolder front grille. While not necessarily groundbreaking, the overall design feels modern and refined.
Interior – Space and Comfort Take Center Stage:
Step inside the Platinum trim, and you’re greeted by a spacious and comfortable cabin. The materials used are a significant upgrade from the Highlander, with a mix of soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and tasteful chrome accents. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes center stage on the dashboard, offering a user-friendly interface and crisp graphics.
The first two rows offer ample legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. The third row, often an afterthought in many SUVs, is surprisingly spacious and comfortable for adults on shorter trips. This makes the Grand Highlander a genuine three-row option, ideal for families with growing children or those who regularly travel with extended family or friends.
Hybrid Powertrain – Power Meets Efficiency:
The Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Platinum boasts the highlight of the new model – the 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain. This system combines a powerful electric motor with a gasoline engine, delivering a combined output of 362 horsepower and a staggering 400 lb-ft of torque. This translates to impressive acceleration, making the Grand Highlander feel surprisingly quick and responsive for its size.
More importantly, the hybrid system delivers a significant improvement in fuel efficiency. While official EPA ratings are not yet available, Toyota estimates a combined fuel economy of around 25-27 mpg, which is impressive for a large SUV and positions it competitively against rivals.
Driving Dynamics – A Balancing Act:
The Grand Highlander prioritizes comfort over sporty handling. The suspension provides a smooth and composed ride, soaking up bumps and road imperfections effectively. However, the steering feels slightly numb, and the body roll becomes evident when pushing the SUV through corners. While not designed to be a canyon carver, the Grand Highlander delivers a comfortable and confident driving experience for everyday commutes and highway cruising.
Safety First:
Toyota equips the Grand Highlander with a comprehensive suite of safety features as standard. This includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which offers features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. These advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) provide added peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
The Competition: American SUV Showdown
The Grand Highlander enters a crowded segment dominated by established players like the Honda Pilot, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade. Here’s a breakdown of how it compares:
- Honda Pilot: The Pilot offers a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and a strong V6 engine option. However, it lacks the Grand Highlander’s hybrid efficiency and doesn’t have a third-row that’s quite as spacious.
- Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: This minivan-based SUV offers exceptional fuel economy with its plug-in hybrid powertrain and boasts a comfortable and luxurious interior. However, its minivan roots might deter some buyers looking for a more traditional SUV aesthetic.
- Kia Telluride & Hyundai Palisade: These Korean twins offer a compelling combination of space, features, value, and design. They match the Grand Highlander in terms of features and boast slightly better fuel economy with their standard V6 engines. However, neither offer a hybrid option.
Verdict: A Strong Contender in the Three-Row SUV Arena
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Platinum offers a compelling package for families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient three-row SUV. The powerful hybrid powertrain delivers impressive performance and better fuel economy compared to traditional gasoline-powered rivals.
While not the most exciting SUV in terms of handling or design, the Grand Highlander prioritizes comfort, practicality, and a smooth driving experience. Its biggest strengths lie in its spacious and comfortable interior, user-friendly technology
