The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is poised to make a significant impact in the SUV market, offering a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and space. As the latest addition to Toyota’s esteemed SUV lineup, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is designed to cater to the needs of modern families seeking a vehicle that can handle daily routines and adventurous road trips alike. Available in a range of trims and boasting Toyota’s renowned hybrid technology, this SUV is set to redefine expectations in its class. Hitting dealerships this summer, the Grand Highlander Hybrid promises to be a game-changer.
Unveiling the Power and Efficiency of the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Powertrains
Toyota understands that today’s drivers demand both performance and fuel efficiency. The 2024 Grand Highlander addresses this with a choice of three distinct powertrains, each designed to offer a unique driving experience. While the standard 2.4L turbo gas engine provides a well-rounded option, the spotlight truly shines on the hybrid offerings: the efficient 2.5L hybrid and the high-performance Hybrid MAX.
For those prioritizing fuel economy, the 2.5L hybrid powertrain is an excellent choice. It delivers an EPA-estimated 36 combined MPG for the XLE FWD grade, making it remarkably efficient for a vehicle of its size. This powertrain ensures that drivers can enjoy reduced carbon emissions without sacrificing the space and versatility of a large SUV.
However, for drivers who crave exhilarating performance alongside hybrid technology, the Hybrid MAX powertrain is the ultimate answer. This system is the most powerful ever offered in a Toyota midsize SUV, boasting an impressive 362 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. The result is a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 6.3 seconds, transforming the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX into a surprisingly quick and responsive vehicle. Even with this impressive power, the Hybrid MAX still achieves a respectable EPA-estimated 27 combined MPG.
All-Wheel Drive Systems for Every Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Model
Confidence in various driving conditions is paramount, and the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid delivers with sophisticated all-wheel drive (AWD) systems available across the powertrain lineup. Whether you opt for the standard hybrid or the Hybrid MAX, you can benefit from enhanced traction and stability.
The standard 2.5L hybrid models feature Electronic On-Demand AWD. This system is designed to maximize fuel efficiency while providing reliable traction when needed. An electric motor drives the rear wheels, seamlessly engaging to provide extra grip in slippery conditions or during acceleration. The system intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear wheels, optimizing both fuel economy and driving performance.
For the Hybrid MAX powertrain, Toyota employs Full-Time Electronic AWD. This system is engineered to complement the powertrain’s high output, delivering both exhilarating performance and exceptional control. Utilizing both a front-mounted hybrid motor and a rear-mounted eAxle electric motor, this AWD system constantly adjusts the power split between the front and rear wheels. This results in enhanced maneuverability, straight-line stability, and responsive acceleration, ensuring the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX feels planted and confident in all driving scenarios.
Striking Design and Spacious Interior of the Grand Highlander Hybrid
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is not just about performance and efficiency; it also boasts a striking exterior design and a thoughtfully crafted, spacious interior. Designed by Calty Design Studios, the Grand Highlander Hybrid presents a sophisticated and modern aesthetic.
The exterior retains familiar Highlander cues but evolves them into a bolder, more distinctive form. The front fascia features a trapezoidal, hammerhead grille design, giving the vehicle a strong and confident presence. Available 20-inch wheels further enhance the Grand Highlander Hybrid’s stance and visual appeal. Moving to the rear, sharp bumper lines contribute to a refined and contemporary look. Hybrid MAX models add further visual distinction with standard exposed dual exhaust tips, hinting at the performance within.
Functionality is also key to the exterior design. Wide rear doors ensure easy access to the adult-sized third-row seats, a crucial feature for family-oriented SUVs. The side profile flows smoothly, creating a dynamic yet elegant appearance. Prioritizing driver visibility, the Grand Highlander Hybrid features a low hood line and large side windows, instilling confidence in urban driving environments.
Stepping inside, the Grand Highlander Hybrid reveals a spacious and meticulously designed cabin. The soft-padded instrument panel creates a sense of premium quality, while available wood-effect ornamentation adds warmth and sophistication. The instrument panel’s form extends into the door trim, emphasizing the cabin’s width. Thoughtful details like independent driver and passenger armrests on the center console enhance comfort and convenience. Available leather-trimmed seats, with 10-way power adjustments for the driver and 8-way for the passenger in Limited and Platinum grades, elevate the interior experience further. Hybrid MAX models receive unique Ultrasuede® and leather-trimmed seats with bronze accents, creating a distinctive and sporty ambiance.
Versatility and Convenience: The Hallmarks of the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
Versatility and convenience are at the core of the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid’s design. Built on a modified TNGA-K platform with a wider track and longer wheelbase than the standard Highlander, the Grand Highlander Hybrid offers both confident handling and exceptional interior space.
Whether it’s daily errands or long road trips, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is well-equipped. It provides a genuinely adult-sized third row, ensuring comfortable seating for all passengers. Thoughtful storage solutions are integrated throughout the cabin, keeping belongings organized and accessible. Cargo space is ample, accommodating seven carry-on suitcases even with the third row in use. Folding down the second and third rows expands the cargo area to a generous 97.5 cubic feet.
The cabin is designed with user-friendly technology and controls. A standard 12.3-inch multimedia display serves as the central hub for infotainment and vehicle functions. The center stack includes a wireless charger, multiple USB ports, and practical cup holders, including one large enough for oversized water bottles. Thoughtful touches like a passenger-side pocket for small bags and a sliding console cover enhance everyday usability. Second-row passengers benefit from their own air conditioning controls and USB ports, while third-row occupants also have dedicated USB ports, storage spaces, and cup/bottle holders.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Features in the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is packed with the latest technology, enhancing both convenience and safety. Notably, the Platinum grade offers Toyota’s advanced Traffic Jam Assist system. This technology can ease the burden of stop-and-go traffic on limited-access highways by automatically controlling steering, acceleration, and braking at speeds between 0-25 mph under certain conditions.
Standard across the Grand Highlander Hybrid range is a 12.3-inch touchscreen featuring Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system. This system offers intuitive touch and voice controls. With an available Drive Connect trial subscription, drivers gain access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Intelligent Assistant allows for voice commands to control navigation, audio, climate, and more. Cloud Navigation provides real-time map and traffic updates, while Destination Assist connects drivers to live agents for 24/7 support.
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility are standard, and available Wi-Fi Connect turns the Grand Highlander Hybrid into a 4G hotspot for up to five devices. Integrated Streaming allows users to link their Apple Music® and Amazon Music accounts for in-vehicle control. Over-the-Air (OTA) updates ensure the multimedia system stays current. For audiophiles, a JBL® Premium Audio system with 11 speakers is available, delivering immersive sound quality.
Connected Services, such as Safety Connect and Service Connect, offer features like emergency assistance, roadside assistance, vehicle health reports, and maintenance alerts. The Toyota app enables remote vehicle functions like door lock/unlock, remote start, and vehicle status checks. Digital Key functionality, available with a Remote Connect subscription, allows smartphone-based access and control.
Convenience features abound, including standard Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, and a Panoramic View Monitor, are available for enhanced maneuverability and safety. Other available features include heated steering wheel, power-folding mirrors, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, 1,500-watt power outlets (Hybrid and Hybrid MAX models), and a hands-free power liftgate.
Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Trim Levels: XLE, Limited, and Platinum
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is available in three well-equipped grades: XLE, Limited, and Platinum.
The XLE grade offers a strong foundation with features like 18-inch alloy wheels, SofTex®-trimmed seating, heated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0).
Stepping up to the Limited grade adds 20-inch alloy wheels, leather-trimmed seating, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, JBL® Premium Audio, hands-free power liftgate, and front and rear parking assist with automated braking.
The top-of-the-line Platinum grade includes even more premium features such as 20-inch wheels, heated and ventilated second-row seats, panoramic moonroof, head-up display, panoramic view monitor, digital rearview mirror, and Traffic Jam Assist.
Uncompromising Safety with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the 2024 Grand Highlander Hybrid comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), the latest generation of Toyota’s comprehensive safety suite. TSS 3.0 includes enhanced versions of Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Tracing Assist.
A new addition to TSS 3.0 is Proactive Driving Assist, which provides gentle braking and/or steering to support driving tasks like distance control and curve negotiation under certain conditions. An Emergency Driving Stop System has also been added to Lane Tracing Assist, designed to bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver becomes unresponsive. Road Sign Assist now features expanded sign detection capabilities. These advanced safety technologies underscore Toyota’s commitment to passenger protection and driver assistance.
Conclusion: The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid – A New Benchmark for Family SUVs
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is more than just a new SUV; it’s a statement of intent from Toyota. By seamlessly blending powerful and efficient hybrid powertrains, a spacious and refined interior, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive safety features, the Grand Highlander Hybrid sets a new benchmark in the family SUV segment. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, performance, or simply need a versatile and comfortable vehicle for your family, the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is poised to exceed expectations and become a leader in its class. With its arrival in dealerships this summer, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is ready to redefine the driving experience for families across the nation.
