The automotive world buzzed with excitement as Toyota unveiled the all-new 2024 Grand Highlander, a vehicle poised to redefine the midsize SUV segment. Introduced just before the Chicago Auto Show, this model expands on the legacy of the Highlander, offering enhanced space, advanced technology, and a range of powerful and efficient powertrains. For families and adventurers alike, the 2023 Toyota Highlander (as it’s eagerly anticipated in the market, though officially the 2024 Grand Highlander) emerges as a compelling option, blending Toyota’s renowned reliability with modern innovation.
Lisa Materazzo, group vice president of Toyota Marketing, highlighted the market need for a midsize SUV that truly prioritizes passenger comfort across all three rows, stating, “Grand Highlander is the ultimate option.” She emphasized the vehicle’s expansion of the Highlander legacy into a new dimension of space and Toyota’s continued commitment to electrification. Building upon the Highlander’s pioneering introduction of a hybrid powertrain in 2006, the Grand Highlander significantly advances Toyota’s electrification leadership.
The 2023 Toyota Highlander distinguishes itself by offering a spectrum of choices, from entry-level configurations to models focused on fuel efficiency and high performance. Available in three distinct grades, it presents three powertrain options: a balanced 2.4L turbo gas engine, an efficient 2.5L hybrid estimated to achieve 34 combined MPG, and the high-performance 362 horsepower Hybrid MAX.
Toyota’s dedication to carbon neutrality is evident in the Grand Highlander Hybrid and Hybrid MAX models, aligning with their “beyond zero” vision. This commitment is reflected in Toyota’s broad lineup of electrified vehicles, including ten hybrids, two plug-in hybrids, the bZ4X battery electric vehicle, and the Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. The 2023 Grand Highlander proudly wears the “Beyond Zero” badge, symbolizing Toyota’s global initiative towards carbon neutrality in its products and manufacturing processes, following in the footsteps of the all-new Prius.
Designed by Calty Design Studios and manufactured exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Princeton, Indiana, the anticipation builds for the announcement of the 2023 Toyota Highlander’s pricing and on-sale date, expected later this summer.
Unrivaled Comfort and Versatility
Built upon the robust TNGA-K platform, the 2023 Toyota Highlander is engineered as the quintessential family SUV, perfectly suited for daily commutes and extended road trips. It boasts intelligently designed storage solutions throughout the cabin, ensuring a clutter-free and organized environment. The expansive cargo area comfortably accommodates seven carry-on suitcases even with the third row seats in use. Folding down the seats reveals a cavernous approximately 98 cubic feet of cargo space, complemented by a genuinely adult-sized third row, addressing a common pain point in the midsize SUV class.
Alt text: Toyota Grand Highlander 2023 interior showcasing spacious three-row seating for maximum passenger comfort.
Regardless of seating position, the 2023 Toyota Highlander is designed for optimal functionality and comfort on every journey. The driver-centric cockpit features a standard 12.3-inch multimedia display, serving as the command center for vehicle controls and infotainment. The innovative center console is designed for modern lifestyles, capable of holding a tablet (with the internal tray removed) and featuring a wireless charger, dual USB ports, and three cup holders, one specifically sized for large water bottles. The passenger side is equally considered, offering a convenient pocket for small bags and an additional USB port and cord-managing tray on the dashboard. A sliding console cover enhances usability, allowing access even when the armrests are in use.
Second-row passengers benefit from a dedicated air conditioning control panel and easily accessible USB ports located at the top of the console end. Cup holders are integrated into the center armrest for bench seat configurations, while captain’s chair models offer cup holders, smartphone storage, and a multi-purpose tray on the rear console. Door trims in the second row also include multi-purpose trays and additional water bottle storage.
Third-row occupants are treated with the same level of consideration, featuring individual USB ports, smartphone/tablet storage, and two cup & bottle holders on the side panel. Accessibility is further enhanced with support grips for easier entry and hand support spaces for exiting the vehicle. Across all three rows, the 2023 Toyota Highlander is truly road-trip ready, equipped with a total of 13 cup holders suitable for large water bottles and seven USB-C charge ports, ensuring all devices remain powered up throughout the journey.
Additional available convenience features elevate the experience, including a heated steering wheel and power-folding mirrors on Limited and Platinum trims, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats on the Platinum grade, 1,500-Watt power outlets on select Hybrid and Hybrid MAX models, and a hands-free power back door on Limited and Platinum trims.
Powertrain Options for Every Driver
The 2023 Toyota Highlander delivers on both performance and efficiency, offering a powertrain to match every driver’s preference. Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, the engine options include:
- 2.4L Turbo Gas Engine: A well-rounded powertrain offering a balance of power and efficiency, available in both FWD and AWD.
- 2.5L Hybrid: Prioritizing fuel efficiency, this hybrid powertrain is available in FWD and AWD and achieves an estimated 34 combined MPG.
- Hybrid MAX: For drivers seeking ultimate performance, the Hybrid MAX powertrain delivers 362 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque with standard AWD, making it the most powerful mid-size SUV Toyota has ever produced.
Alt text: 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX side view, highlighting its robust design and performance-oriented features.
All powertrain options are equipped with three Drive Modes (Sport, Eco, Normal) to tailor the driving experience to different conditions and preferences. Gas AWD and Hybrid MAX powertrains further enhance capability with Multi-Terrain Select, offering Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, and Snow modes for optimized performance on various surfaces.
The Hybrid MAX powertrain not only positions the 2023 Toyota Highlander as the most powerful Toyota mid-size SUV but also delivers impressive acceleration, achieving a 0-60 mph time of just 6.3 seconds. It also boasts a substantial 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity, adding to its versatility.
Cutting-Edge Technology Integration
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is packed with the latest technological advancements, headlined by the standard 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system. Developed by Toyota’s Connected Technologies team in Texas, this system offers seamless connectivity and intuitive operation. Grand Highlander owners can access a suite of enhanced connectivity and convenience features, including Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, ensuring the system remains current with the latest software and features.
Users can interact with the system through touch controls or voice activation. The available Connected Service Drive Connect provides access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Intelligent Assistant responds to voice commands triggered by phrases like “Hey Toyota,” enabling hands-free control for navigation, Points of Interest (POI) searches, audio adjustments, climate control, and more. Cloud Navigation leverages real-time cloud data for the most current map, traffic, and routing information. POI search is powered by Google Points-of-Interest data, ensuring comprehensive and up-to-date search results. Destination Assist offers 24/7 access to live agents for navigation assistance.
The Toyota Audio Multimedia system supports dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. An available Wi-Fi Connect trial provides 4G connectivity for up to five devices, transforming the Grand Highlander into an AT&T Hotspot. Beyond HD Radio®, USB data, and a SiriusXM® Platinum Plan trial, Wi-Fi Connect enables Integrated Streaming, allowing users to link their Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions for in-vehicle control.
For audiophiles, the 2023 Toyota Highlander offers an optional JBL® Premium Audio system with 11 speakers, delivering an immersive audio experience. Standard on Limited and Platinum grades, this system utilizes Clari-Fi® technology to enhance the quality of compressed digital music.
A range of Connected Services further enhance the ownership experience. Safety Connect includes an SOS Emergency Assistance Button, 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Locator, and Collision Assistance with up to a 10-year trial. Service Connect provides Vehicle Health Reports and Maintenance Alerts and reminders, also with up to a 10-year trial.
The Toyota app enables remote connectivity with a 1-year trial of Remote Connect service, allowing users to control headlights, door locks, and remote start. Vehicle status checks, reminder notifications, and Guest Driver Alerts are also accessible through the app. Digital key functionality, standard on all grades with Remote Connect, allows smartphone-based locking/unlocking and remote start.
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is designed to keep all devices charged with seven USB-C ports throughout the cabin. The front row includes a wireless charger, two Type-C USB ports, and a dedicated USB port for the passenger. Second-row passengers have access to two Type-C USB ports, and third-row occupants each get a USB port at the outboard seating positions.
Convenience features abound, with standard Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) on all grades. Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking is available on Limited and Platinum grades. A Panoramic View Monitor, available on higher trims, provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle.
Striking and Functional Design
The 2023 Toyota Highlander boasts a distinctive and attractive exterior design that complements its spacious interior. The front fascia is inspired by the Highlander lineage but presents a fresh aesthetic with a trapezoidal hammerhead grille and available 20” wheels. The sophisticated design extends to the rear with a sharply sculpted bumper, with the Hybrid Max variant adding available dual exhaust outlets.
Alt text: Toyota Grand Highlander 2023 front grill and headlight detail, emphasizing its modern and aggressive styling.
The exterior is both visually appealing and functionally designed. Body-colored rear pillars convey robustness and highlight the third-row utility, while black rockers contribute to its elevated SUV stance. The side profile features a seamless flow from doors to fenders, creating a dynamic yet refined appearance. Hybrid MAX grades offer exclusive front and rear lower bumper designs for an even more premium look.
Inside, the thoughtfully designed and spacious cabin features a soft-padded instrument panel that flows seamlessly into the door trim with wood-effect ornamentation. A sturdy center console creates a comfortable, living room-like ambiance. The instrument panel extends into the door trim, creating a sense of expansiveness, while independent driver/passenger armrests enhance usability. Ornamentation accents add a touch of modern artistry, and high-quality leather stitchwork exudes refined elegance.
Available leather-trimmed seats with 10-way power driver and 8-way passenger adjustments enhance driver and front passenger comfort on Limited and Platinum grades. Hybrid MAX models feature exclusive Ultrasuede® and leather-trimmed seats with bronze-colored accents, adding a sporty touch.
Trim Levels and Key Features
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is offered in three grades across the available powertrains: XLE, Limited, and Platinum.
XLE Grade
- Exterior: 18″ Alloy Wheels, Black Painted Grille, Roof Rails, Heated Outer Mirrors
- Interior: Softex®-trimmed Seating, 10-way Power Driver & 8-way Power Passenger Seats, 7-Passenger Capacity w/ 2nd Row Captains Chairs or 8-Passenger Bench, Heated Front Seats, 2nd Row Sunshades
- Multimedia/Technology: Digital Key (requires active Remote Connect trial or subscription), 12.3” Touchscreen, 7” MID, 6 Power USB / 1 Media USB, Wireless Charger
- Safety & Convenience: TSS 3.0, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, 5 Door Smart Key, Power Liftgate, Garage Door Opener, Auto-dimming Mirror
Limited Grade
- Exterior: 20″ Alloy Wheels, LED DRL, Power Fold Outer Mirrors, LED Fog Lamps
- Interior: Leather Seating, Heated & Ventilated Front Seats, Heated 2nd Row Seats, Memory Seat function for 1st row, Heated Steering Wheel, Power outlet (100W Gas) (1500W HV/Hybrid MAX), Ambient Lighting, Removable 2nd row center console storage
- Multimedia/Technology: 12.3″ Premium Multimedia w/ 11 Speaker JBL Audio, 12.3″ Full Digital MID
- Safety & Convenience: Parking Sensors w/ Automatic Braking, Rain Sensing Wipers, Kick Power Liftgate, Puddle Lamps
Platinum Grade
- Exterior: 20″ Clad Alloy Wheels
- Interior: Heated & Ventilated 2nd Row Seats, Panoramic Moonroof, Paddle shifters (AWD Gas and Hybrid MAX), Dial Multi-Terrain Select (AWD Gas and Hybrid MAX)
- Safety & Convenience: Head Up Display, Puddle Lamps, Panoramic View Monitor, Digital Rearview Mirror, Traffic Jam Assist (requires active Drive Connect trial or subscription), Front Cross Traffic Alert
Interior color options for the 2023 Toyota Highlander vary by grade and powertrain, including Softex®-trim, Leather-trim, and Ultrasuede®- and leather-trim options in colors like Light Gray, Black, and Portobello.
Advanced Safety Features with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), Toyota’s latest suite of advanced safety technologies. TSS 3.0 includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Proactive Driving Assist (New to TSS)
Proactive Driving Assist is a new addition to TSS 3.0, providing gentle braking into curves and distance control assistance using the vehicle’s camera and radar. TSS 3.0 enhancements include improved detection capabilities for the Pre-Collision System, enhanced lane recognition for Lane Departure Alert and Lane Tracing Assist, and expanded sign detection for Road Sign Assist. Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control adds a fourth following distance setting and enhanced vehicle detection. Lane Tracing Assist now includes an Emergency Driving Stop System, designed to bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver becomes unresponsive.
The 2023 Toyota Highlander sets a new benchmark in the midsize SUV segment, combining spacious comfort, versatile powertrains, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features. While pricing and the official on-sale date are still to be announced, the Grand Highlander is poised to be a highly sought-after vehicle for families and adventurers seeking a reliable, capable, and refined SUV.
