Kona, HI — The new 3-row Toyota Grand Highlander went on sale in the Summer of 2023. Designed by Calty Design Studios, the 2024 models will be assembled from Toyota’s Princeton, Indiana plant. Expect ten Grand Highlander trims, starting at $43,070 for XLE with front-wheel drive, topping out at $58,125 for the Platinum Hybrid Max. Canadians get five trims from $53,870 to $68,830. See full trims and pricing below:
United States:
| Trims | Price (US $) |
|---|---|
| XLE (FWD) | $43,070 |
| XLE (AWD) | $44,670 |
| Limited (FWD) | $47,860 |
| Limited (AWD) | $49,460 |
| Platinum (AWD) | $53,545 |
| XLE Hybrid (FWD) | $44,670 |
| XLE Hybrid (AWD) | $46,270 |
| Limited Hybrid (AWD) | $51,060 |
| Limited Hybrid MAX (AWD) | $54,040 |
| Platinum Hybrid MAX (AWD) | $58,125 |
Canada:
| Trims | Price (CDN $) |
|---|---|
| XLE Gas | $53,870 |
| XLE Hybrid | $57,170 |
| Limited Gas | $61,070 |
| Limited Hybrid | $64,570 |
| Platinum Hybrid MAX | $68,830 |
A Longer Highlander SUV Makes Sense
Considering Toyota already offers a 3-row Highlander, the 3-row Sienna minivan with ample space, and a full-size Sequoia SUV recently redesigned for 2023, it begs the question: Do we need another 3-row SUV from Toyota? Surprisingly, yes. And this newcomer does a lot to separate itself from the pack.
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is a reasonably priced SUV sporting a spacious last row, abundant cargo space and storage solutions throughout the cabin, and a surprisingly potent 362-horsepower hybrid system, making it the most powerful mid-size SUV Toyota has ever produced.
An adult-size last row for the win
Unlike the regular Toyota Highlander, which has a cramped third row (and, let’s be honest, is relegated to small children or unworthy passengers), the Grand Highlander’s rear passengers have proper legroom and ample space. This is an adult-sized third row, after all—making this powerful and well-handling Toyota SUV a standout option for families uninterested in a minivan or expensive full-size SUV.
| Exterior Specs | Metric |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 116.1″ |
| Length | 201.4″ |
| Width (w/o mirrors) | 78.3″ |
| Height (w/o antenna) | 70.1″ |
| Ground Clearance | 8.0″ |
Recommended Reads:
- Size Matters: Why the Grand Highlander’s Dimensions Set it Apart from the Competition
- 2024 Grand Highlander Interior: Inside Toyota’s New 3-Row SUV
Three Grand Highlander Engine Options, Including Gas and Hybrid
Let’s talk performance. The Grand Highlander is motivated by one of three powertrain options, including one gas engine and two hybrid systems: the gas-powered 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo, the 2.5L 4-cylinder Hybrid, and 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo Hybrid MAX. It’s worth noting each version pairs to a different transmission, including an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) for the mid-range hybrid. The gas and Hybrid Max both offer Direct Shift.
When we drove the Grand Highlander Limited Hybrid MAX, torque felt almost immediate, turbo power was instant, and the Hybrid-MAX’s direct shift 6-speed transmission was a big reason for this surprisingly quick acceleration — safe to say, the eCVT in the less robust 2.5L hybrid wouldn’t render the same results (not even close). Here’s our complete Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX first drive review with driving impressions.
Grand Highlander Towing Capacity and Engine Specs
If towing a boat or weekend RV is necessary, skip the 2.5L Hybrid with eCVT, which offers a modest 3,500 lbs. towing capacity; the 2.4L gas and range-topping Hybrid MAX offer a more reasonable 5,000 lbs. towing capacity. Below are all three engines and specs.
2.4L Turbo
| Spec | Metric |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 265 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 310 lb.-ft @ 6,000 rpm |
| Drivetrain | FWD, AWD |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto (electronic) |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs. |
2.5L Hybrid
| Spec | Metric |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 243 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | N/A |
| Drivetrain | AWD only |
| Transmission | ECVT |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs. |
2.4L Hybrid MAX
| Spec | Metric |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 362 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 lb.-ft @ 2,000-3,000 rpm |
| Drivetrain | AWD only |
| Transmission | 6-speed auto |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs. |
Takeaway
Adding another three-row SUV to the lineup may sound overkill, but it indeed bridges the gap for families who continue to bring on the hate towards minivans (we like minivans: they do serve a purpose!). And even more so, for fans of the Toyota Highlander rightfully unhappy with its inadequate 3rd-row for grown adults.
Add a potent hybrid powertrain with massive torque and decent towing abilities to the mix, and Toyota’s new mid-size hauler checks the boxes many families are seeking. Plus, this thing looks good, too, with its bold styling and more significant proportions. Lexus offers its own Grand Highlander version with the TX. If you’re willing to spend more for the premium stuff, also check out – SUV Comparo: The Toyota Grand Highlander Vs. Lexus TX.
