2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Review: Bigger But Better?
content: Introduction
If you're comparing three-row SUVs, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander demands attention. Priced between $45,000-$60,000 and slotting between the standard Highlander and Sequoia, Toyota promises proper third-row space and family-ready practicality. But after testing it in Hawaii against rivals like the Kia Telluride, we found compelling strengths and surprising weaknesses. The real question isn't whether it's bigger—it's whether that size translates to meaningful improvements for families abandoning minivans.
Key Takeaways at a Glance
- Third-row space genuinely accommodates adults (unlike many competitors)
- Hybrid Max powertrain delivers 362 hp with better fuel economy than gas models
- 13 cupholders and 7 USB-C ports showcase extreme practicality focus
- Cheap interior materials disappoint at $55K Platinum trim level
- Minimal cargo space with all seats up (only 20 cubic feet)
Core Analysis: What the Grand Highlander Delivers
Toyota positions this as their answer to families needing more space than the standard Highlander provides. Built in Indiana specifically for American buyers, it emphasizes functionality over flair. After reviewing the engineering choices, the key advantage lies in thoughtful packaging—not innovation. The wheelbase stretches 4 inches longer than the standard model, creating that critical third-row legroom.
Space & Practicality Breakdown
The Grand Highlander's standout feature is usable third-row seating. Even at 6'4", our reviewer fit without crushing knees against the second row—a rarity in this segment. Strategic seat sculpting and footwell design create the illusion of more space. Key features include:
- Headrest-mounted iPad slots in second-row seats
- Ventilated/heated outboard seats in higher trims
- Wide-swinging doors easing third-row access
- Rear AC outlets for laptop charging
However, cargo space disappoints. With all seats up, you get just 20 cubic feet—half the capacity of a compact RAV4. Toyota's claim of fitting "eight small suitcases" proved optimistic during testing. Folding the 60/40 split third row liberates substantial room, but families needing permanent cargo space should consider roof boxes.
Powertrain Options Compared
Toyota offers three distinct engine configurations, each with trade-offs:
| Powertrain | Horsepower | Torque | Drivetrain | MPG (Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas 2.4L Turbo | 265 hp | 309 lb-ft | FWD or AWD | 22 mpg |
| Hybrid (Base) | 245 hp | N/A | FWD or AWD | 27 mpg (est) |
| Hybrid Max (Top) | 362 hp | 400 lb-ft | AWD Only | 27 mpg |
The Hybrid Max emerges as the compelling choice despite its higher cost. Its six-speed automatic transmission behaves more predictably than the base hybrid's CVT or the gas model's eight-speed. With 100 more horsepower than the standard gas engine and superior fuel economy, it addresses the most common three-row SUV complaints: sluggishness and pump pain.
Critical Evaluation: Where It Falls Short
Interior Quality Concerns
At $55,000 for the Platinum trim, expectations run high. Yet the cabin feels disappointingly budget-oriented:
- Overly hard plastics on high-contact surfaces
- Unconvincing fake wood trim
- Outdated key fob design
- Lack of premium tactile materials
Kia's Telluride demonstrates how to bridge mass-market and luxury aesthetics convincingly—a gap Toyota hasn't closed. While durable, the interior won't satisfy buyers seeking upmarket ambiance.
Driving Dynamics & Safety Tech
Handling proves competent but uninspiring. Body roll remains controlled on winding roads, and steering offers decent feedback. The Driver Attention Monitor, however, drew criticism for excessive alerts during testing—proving more annoying than helpful during long drives.
Standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes:
- Pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert
- Adaptive cruise control
- Road sign assist
Final Verdict & Alternatives
The Grand Highlander excels as a practical people-mover with best-in-class third-row comfort and clever storage solutions. Its hybrid options deliver tangible fuel savings without sacrificing power. However, interior quality and cargo limitations hold it back from segment leadership.
Who Should Buy It?
- Large families prioritizing passenger space over cargo
- Eco-conscious buyers wanting hybrid efficiency without minivan aesthetics
- Toyota loyalists valuing reliability over cutting-edge tech
Consider Alternatives If...
- Interior luxury matters: Kia Telluride/Hyundai Palisade offer richer cabins
- Cargo space is critical: Honda Pilot provides 19% more room behind third row
- Budget is tight: Base model Highlander saves $8K+ with similar features
The Grand Highlander makes the strongest case for families needing to regularly seat 7-8 adults—a niche where its size advantage becomes decisive. For others, the Telluride's premium feel or Pilot's cargo flexibility may prove more compelling.
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