2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Review: Bigger and Better
Toyota Grand Highlander (2024): A Future Top Seller
Toyota has spent decades perfecting the family SUV formula, but one complaint followed the Highlander through multiple generations: the third row simply wasn’t large enough for growing families. The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander was created to solve that problem without forcing buyers into a full-size SUV. Bigger, roomier, and more versatile than the standard Highlander, it arrives as one of the most practical three-row SUVs Toyota has ever built.
While the name suggests a slightly stretched Highlander, the reality is far more impressive. The Grand Highlander offers a genuinely adult-friendly third row, significantly more cargo space, and a cabin designed around long family road trips. Toyota also gives buyers a choice of three powertrains, including an efficient hybrid and the powerful Hybrid Max system that delivers performance few family SUVs can match.
The result is an SUV that fills the gap between the Highlander and the Sequoia almost perfectly. Whether you’re transporting seven passengers, hauling luggage for a weekend getaway, or simply looking for a comfortable and efficient family vehicle, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander enters the segment as one of the most complete options available today.
Our Take
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander feels like the SUV many Highlander buyers have been requesting for years.
Instead of chasing aggressive styling or off-road credentials, Toyota focused on what families actually need: more passenger space, a larger cargo area, excellent technology, strong safety features, and multiple powertrain choices. The result is an SUV that excels in everyday usability while remaining comfortable and refined on long journeys.
What impresses us most is how well Toyota balanced practicality and efficiency. The standard turbocharged engine is perfectly adequate for most families, the hybrid delivers outstanding fuel economy, and the Hybrid Max provides surprisingly strong acceleration for a vehicle of this size. Combined with Toyota’s reputation for reliability, the Grand Highlander immediately becomes one of the strongest contenders in the three-row SUV segment.
It may not be the most exciting SUV to drive, but it accomplishes its mission exceptionally well. For large families who need space without stepping into a truck-based SUV, the Grand Highlander is exactly the vehicle Toyota needed to build.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Spacious third row that comfortably accommodates adults.
- Massive cargo capacity for family trips and everyday use.
- Three powertrain choices, including an efficient hybrid and powerful Hybrid Max.
- Excellent standard safety technology.
- Comfortable ride quality and quiet cabin.
- User-friendly infotainment system with a large standard touchscreen.
Cons
- Large dimensions can feel cumbersome in tight urban environments.
- Higher trims can become expensive.
- Hybrid Max models carry a significant price premium.
- Exterior styling is functional rather than exciting.
- Some competitors offer stronger towing capacity.
What’s New for 2024
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is an all-new model and one of Toyota’s most important SUV launches in years. Rather than serving as a simple extension of the Highlander lineup, it introduces a larger platform, a significantly roomier third row, and one of the most versatile family-focused interiors Toyota has ever offered.
Toyota designed the Grand Highlander specifically for buyers who felt the standard Highlander’s third row and cargo area were too restrictive. As a result, the new model provides substantially more passenger room, greater cargo capacity, and improved long-distance comfort while maintaining the driving manners and efficiency expected from a modern crossover SUV.
Another major highlight is the expanded powertrain lineup. Buyers can choose between a turbocharged gasoline engine, a fuel-efficient hybrid system, and the range-topping Hybrid Max powertrain that delivers an impressive blend of performance and capability. Combined with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 and a technology-rich interior, the Grand Highlander enters the market as a completely new contender rather than a simple Highlander variant.
Exterior Design
Toyota took a conservative but effective approach with the Grand Highlander’s styling.
Unlike some competitors that rely on aggressive body lines and oversized grilles, the Grand Highlander emphasizes proportion, practicality, and presence. Its longer wheelbase and larger overall dimensions immediately distinguish it from the standard Highlander, giving it a more substantial appearance on the road.
The front end features Toyota’s modern SUV design language with a wide grille, slim LED lighting elements, and a clean, upscale look that feels more mature than flashy. From the side, the extended profile creates a stronger visual balance while hinting at the additional interior space hidden beneath the sheet metal.
The rear design remains straightforward and family-focused, prioritizing visibility and functionality over dramatic styling cues. Large glass areas improve outward visibility, while the upright tailgate helps maximize cargo capacity. Although the Grand Highlander may not attract attention like some luxury SUVs, its design should age gracefully and remain attractive for years to come.
Higher trims enhance the visual appeal with larger wheels, premium exterior accents, and exclusive design touches that help the SUV feel more upscale without abandoning its practical roots.
Driving Experience
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander was engineered first and foremost as a family vehicle, and its driving experience reflects that mission.
Despite being larger than the standard Highlander, the Grand Highlander feels surprisingly manageable from behind the wheel. Steering is light and predictable, visibility is excellent, and the SUV never feels intimidating despite its generous dimensions. Families upgrading from a midsize crossover will adapt quickly.
Ride quality is one of the vehicle’s strongest attributes. The suspension absorbs rough pavement effectively, keeping passengers comfortable even on longer highway journeys. Road and wind noise are well controlled, creating a relaxed environment that makes road trips significantly more enjoyable.
The standard turbocharged engine provides adequate performance for everyday driving, while the hybrid models prioritize efficiency without feeling sluggish. Buyers seeking stronger acceleration should look toward the Hybrid Max powertrain, which transforms the Grand Highlander into one of the quickest family-oriented SUVs in its class.
More importantly, Toyota tuned the Grand Highlander for confidence rather than excitement. It remains stable at highway speeds, composed through corners, and exceptionally easy to drive in daily situations. While enthusiasts may prefer something more engaging, most families will appreciate the SUV’s calm, comfortable, and predictable character.
For buyers who regularly transport seven or eight passengers, the Grand Highlander’s relaxed driving manners may ultimately prove more valuable than sporty handling.
Performance & Acceleration
Toyota offers one of the most diverse powertrain lineups in the segment, giving Grand Highlander buyers the flexibility to prioritize performance, efficiency, or a balance of both.
The standard engine is a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it delivers smooth and confident acceleration that feels more than adequate for daily family duties. Highway merging, passing slower traffic, and carrying a full load of passengers rarely feel like a challenge.
For buyers focused on fuel economy, Toyota’s hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors to provide impressive efficiency without sacrificing everyday usability. It may not be the quickest option in the lineup, but it offers a smooth and refined driving experience that perfectly suits the Grand Highlander’s family-oriented mission.
The real star of the lineup is the Hybrid Max. Producing up to 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, it transforms the Grand Highlander into one of the quickest three-row SUVs in its class. Acceleration is strong, immediate, and effortless, making highway driving remarkably easy despite the vehicle’s size. For buyers who want both efficiency and performance, the Hybrid Max strikes a compelling balance.
Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement
Comfort is arguably the Grand Highlander’s greatest strength.
Toyota engineered this SUV specifically for long-distance family travel, and the result is a vehicle that feels exceptionally relaxed on the road. The suspension absorbs rough pavement, expansion joints, and broken city streets with impressive composure, keeping occupants comfortable even during extended journeys.
The cabin remains quiet at highway speeds, with excellent insulation from road and wind noise. Conversations between passengers are easy, and long road trips become noticeably less tiring compared to some competitors. Families who frequently travel between cities will appreciate how effortlessly the Grand Highlander settles into a comfortable cruising rhythm.
Buyers considering alternatives may also want to explore the Mazda CX-90 and Jeep Grand Cherokee L. The Mazda offers a more engaging driving experience, while the Jeep provides stronger towing capability and a more rugged character. However, neither matches the Grand Highlander’s combination of passenger space, comfort, and family-focused practicality.
The front seats provide excellent support for long drives, while higher trims add ventilated seating and additional luxury touches that enhance overall comfort. Even passengers in the third row benefit from the vehicle’s thoughtful design, something that cannot be said about many competitors in this segment.
Interior & Luxury Feel
The Grand Highlander’s interior is where Toyota’s family-first philosophy becomes most apparent.
Unlike many three-row SUVs that prioritize styling over usability, the Grand Highlander focuses on maximizing comfort, storage, and everyday convenience. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with controls positioned exactly where drivers expect them to be. Visibility is excellent, and the cabin feels open and airy thanks to its large windows and generous dimensions.
Material quality is noticeably improved over many mainstream competitors. Soft-touch surfaces cover the most frequently touched areas, while higher trims introduce premium upholstery, upscale trim accents, ambient lighting, and a more refined atmosphere that approaches entry-level luxury territory.
The biggest story, however, is space. Adults can comfortably occupy the third row, something that remains surprisingly rare in the midsize SUV segment. Second-row passengers enjoy generous legroom, while the wide cabin prevents the vehicle from ever feeling cramped during family road trips.
Storage solutions are equally impressive. Large door pockets, numerous cupholders, available wireless charging, and cleverly designed storage compartments make daily life easier for families. Whether carrying children, luggage, sports equipment, or groceries, the Grand Highlander feels purpose-built for real-world family use.
The result is an interior that may not be flashy or overly dramatic, but it excels where it matters most: comfort, practicality, and long-term usability.
Technology & Infotainment
Toyota equips every 2024 Grand Highlander with a modern technology package designed to make family travel easier, more connected, and less stressful.
A large 12.3-inch touchscreen comes standard across the lineup, making the Grand Highlander one of the most tech-friendly SUVs in its class. The system is responsive, easy to navigate, and significantly more refined than previous Toyota infotainment systems. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing drivers to access navigation, music, calls, and messaging without connecting a cable.
Toyota’s voice assistant has also improved considerably. Simple voice commands can control navigation, climate settings, phone functions, and media playback, reducing distractions while driving. The interface is intuitive enough that even first-time users can quickly become comfortable with it.
Families will particularly appreciate the abundance of charging options throughout the cabin. Multiple USB-C ports are available across all three rows, ensuring passengers can keep smartphones, tablets, and other devices charged during longer journeys. Available wireless charging, a premium JBL audio system, and a digital instrument cluster further elevate the experience on higher trims.
Unlike some competitors that overwhelm drivers with complicated menus and excessive technology, the Grand Highlander’s system focuses on ease of use. Everything feels straightforward, making it particularly appealing for families who simply want technology that works.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is one of the Grand Highlander’s most impressive advantages, especially when equipped with one of Toyota’s hybrid powertrains.
The standard turbocharged 2.4-liter gasoline engine delivers respectable efficiency for a three-row SUV of this size, making it a practical choice for buyers who prioritize lower purchase costs. However, the real attraction lies within the hybrid lineup.
The conventional hybrid model stands out as one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in the segment. Achieving well over 30 mpg combined in many configurations, it provides remarkable efficiency without requiring buyers to sacrifice passenger space or cargo capacity. For families who spend significant time commuting, traveling, or transporting children between activities, the potential fuel savings can be substantial.
The Hybrid Max powertrain occupies a unique position. While it does not match the standard hybrid’s fuel economy, it offers significantly stronger performance while still maintaining respectable efficiency for a vehicle producing more than 360 horsepower. This makes it an attractive option for buyers who want both power and economy without moving into a luxury SUV price bracket.
Regardless of which powertrain buyers choose, the Grand Highlander delivers a balance of efficiency and usability that few competitors can match.
Practicality & Cargo Space
If there is one area where the Grand Highlander truly separates itself from the standard Highlander, it is practicality.
Toyota developed this SUV specifically to address complaints about limited third-row space and cargo capacity. The result is one of the most family-friendly interiors available in the midsize SUV segment.
The third row is genuinely usable for adults, not just children. Taller passengers can sit comfortably for extended periods, making the Grand Highlander an excellent option for larger families or those who frequently travel with friends and relatives. Access to the third row is straightforward, and the seating position feels far more natural than many competing SUVs.
Cargo capacity is equally impressive. Even with all three rows in use, there is enough space for luggage, groceries, sports equipment, or several carry-on suitcases. Folding the third row dramatically expands available storage, while folding both rear rows creates a cavernous cargo area capable of handling furniture, bicycles, camping gear, and nearly anything else a family may need to transport.
Thoughtful storage solutions are found throughout the cabin. Large door pockets, multiple cupholders, spacious center-console storage, and convenient compartments for everyday items make the Grand Highlander exceptionally practical. Toyota clearly designed this vehicle around real-world family needs rather than simply chasing specifications on paper.
For buyers who frequently carry passengers and cargo simultaneously, few competitors offer a better balance of space, versatility, and usability. The Grand Highlander’s ability to comfortably transport people and their belongings is one of its strongest selling points and a major reason why it stands out in such a competitive segment.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety is one of the primary reasons many families choose Toyota, and the 2024 Grand Highlander continues that tradition with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies.
Every Grand Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with steering assist, lane tracing assist, road-sign recognition, automatic high beams, and proactive driving assist. These systems operate smoothly in the background and are designed to reduce driver fatigue during long journeys.
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert further enhance confidence when navigating crowded parking lots and busy highways. Toyota has also refined its adaptive cruise control system, making highway driving more comfortable and predictable than ever before.
What stands out most is how naturally these technologies function. Unlike some competitors that can feel overly intrusive, Toyota’s systems provide assistance without constantly reminding the driver that they are active. This contributes significantly to the Grand Highlander’s relaxed and family-friendly character.
For families prioritizing safety, the Grand Highlander ranks among the strongest choices in the segment.
Competitors Worth Considering
The three-row SUV market is packed with excellent options, and the Grand Highlander faces some serious competition.
The Mazda CX-90 remains one of the most engaging SUVs to drive, offering premium interior materials and available electrified powertrains. Buyers seeking a more upscale driving experience may find it appealing.
The Kia Telluride continues to be one of the segment’s benchmarks thanks to its stylish design, spacious cabin, and outstanding value. It remains a strong alternative for families focused on comfort and features.
The Hyundai Palisade delivers a similarly premium experience with a refined interior and impressive technology package. It is particularly attractive for buyers who want luxury-like features without moving into luxury-brand pricing.
The Volkswagen Atlas deserves consideration as well, especially for shoppers prioritizing interior space and passenger comfort. Meanwhile, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers stronger towing capabilities and a more rugged personality for adventurous families.
Despite this strong competition, the Grand Highlander distinguishes itself through its unique combination of adult-sized third-row seating, hybrid efficiency, practicality, and Toyota’s long-standing reputation for reliability.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
If we were choosing a Grand Highlander with our own money, the Limited Hybrid would be our pick.
It strikes the ideal balance between efficiency, comfort, technology, and value. Buyers receive premium interior materials, upgraded technology features, additional comfort amenities, and exceptional fuel economy without paying the substantial premium associated with the Hybrid Max models.
The base XLE remains an excellent choice for budget-conscious families and includes a surprisingly generous list of standard features. At the other end of the spectrum, the Platinum trim offers luxury-level amenities and additional convenience features but comes at a noticeably higher price.
For most buyers, however, the Limited Hybrid provides the sweet spot in the lineup and best reflects what makes the Grand Highlander special: comfort, practicality, and efficiency.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander feels like the SUV Toyota should have built years ago.
It successfully addresses nearly every criticism directed at the standard Highlander by delivering a truly usable third row, significantly more cargo space, and a broader range of powertrain choices. At the same time, it preserves the qualities that have made Toyota family vehicles so popular for decades: reliability, comfort, efficiency, and ease of ownership.
What makes the Grand Highlander particularly impressive is its versatility. Whether you choose the efficient hybrid, the capable turbocharged gasoline model, or the powerful Hybrid Max, the SUV adapts easily to different lifestyles and priorities. Few competitors offer such a broad range of choices while maintaining the same level of practicality.
Families searching for maximum passenger space without stepping into a full-size SUV will find very little to dislike. The Grand Highlander is comfortable, refined, safe, efficient, and exceptionally useful in everyday life.
FAQ
Is the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander larger than the regular Highlander?
Yes. The Grand Highlander is longer, wider, and offers significantly more third-row passenger space and cargo capacity than the standard Highlander, making it a better choice for larger families.
Which 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander powertrain is the best?
The answer depends on your priorities. The standard hybrid offers the best fuel economy, while the Hybrid Max delivers the strongest performance. For most families, the Limited Hybrid provides the best overall balance.
Can adults comfortably sit in the third row?
Absolutely. One of the Grand Highlander’s biggest advantages is its genuinely adult-friendly third row. Unlike many competitors, taller passengers can travel comfortably for extended periods.
Is the Toyota Grand Highlander better than the Kia Telluride?
Both are excellent choices. The Telluride offers outstanding value and a premium-feeling cabin, while the Grand Highlander counters with superior hybrid options, stronger fuel economy, and Toyota’s long-term reliability reputation.
Is the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander worth buying?
Yes. It is one of the most complete family SUVs currently available, combining spacious seating, strong safety credentials, efficient powertrains, modern technology, and excellent everyday practicality in a single package.
