Toyota has pioneered hybrid vehicles, introducing the first mass-produced hybrid car, the Toyota Prius, in 1997. Since then, the Japanese automaker has expanded its hybrid lineup to include sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs.
Toyota is taking its hybrid technology to a new level with the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, a larger and more luxurious version of its popular Highlander SUV. The Grand Highlander, which will go on sale in the summer of 2024, is designed to appeal to families who want more space, comfort, and performance from their hybrid vehicles.
More Space for More Memories
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is 6.5 inches longer than the regular Highlander, offering more legroom for the second- and third-row passengers and more cargo space behind the third row. The Grand Highlander also features a more upscale interior with premium materials, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof.
The Grand Highlander can comfortably seat up to eight people, or seven with the available second-row captain's chairs. The third row can recline for added comfort or fold flat for extra cargo space. With all four rear seats folded down, the Grand Highlander has a maximum cargo capacity of 97.5 cubic feet.
The Grand Highlander also has smart storage solutions for road trip essentials like phones, tablets, and water bottles. The center console has a wireless charging pad and a digital key capability that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle with your smartphone. The second row has cup holders that can accommodate large bottles and a USB port for each seat. The third row has cup holders and storage bins on both sides.
More power and efficiency
But the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is not just about size and style. It also boasts impressive fuel efficiency and power for a three-row SUV. The Grand Highlander has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors producing a combined 243 horsepower. The Grand Highlander can run on electric power alone for short distances or use both gas and electric power for optimal performance.
According to Toyota, the Grand Highlander has an estimated fuel economy rating of 36 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model and 35 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for the all-wheel-drive model. That means the Grand Highlander can travel up to 600 miles on a single tank of gas.
The Grand Highlander also offers an optional Hybrid MAX powertrain that delivers even more power and torque. The Hybrid MAX powertrain has a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with three electric motors that generate a combined 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The Hybrid MAX powertrain also has an enhanced all-wheel-drive system that can distribute torque to each wheel independently for better traction and handling.
The Hybrid MAX powertrain has an estimated fuel economy rating of 30 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models. The Hybrid MAX powertrain also increases the Grand Highlander's towing capacity from 3,500 lbs. to 5,000 lbs.