Toyota Grand Highlander: A Comprehensive Look at Toyota’s Three-Row SUV for Modern Families
The Toyota Grand Highlander has quickly established itself as a leading choice among midsize three-row SUVs in the United States. Introduced by Toyota to bridge the gap between the standard Highlander and the larger, more luxurious Sequoia, the Grand Highlander offers a blend of spaciousness, comfort, and advanced features that appeal to families and individuals seeking versatility without compromising on style or performance. With its bold exterior design, refined interior, and a selection of efficient powertrains, the Grand Highlander is tailored for those who value practicality as much as sophistication.
Since its debut, the Grand Highlander has garnered attention for its impressive passenger and cargo space, making it an ideal option for road trips, daily commutes, and everything in between. Toyota has equipped this SUV with a suite of advanced safety features, intuitive infotainment systems, and a variety of trims to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, all-wheel drive capability, or premium amenities, the Grand Highlander lineup offers a configuration that meets a wide range of needs.
This article delves into the design philosophy, performance options, interior features, safety technologies, and competitive positioning of the Toyota Grand Highlander. By exploring its key attributes and comparing it to other popular three-row SUVs, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of why the Grand Highlander has become a standout in its segment. The following sections provide an in-depth examination of what sets this vehicle apart and how it addresses the evolving demands of today’s SUV buyers.
The Toyota Grand Highlander represents a significant evolution in Toyota’s SUV lineup, designed to cater to the growing demand for spacious, comfortable, and technologically advanced family vehicles. Positioned above the standard Highlander, the Grand Highlander offers more generous interior dimensions, enhanced cargo capacity, and a suite of modern features that make it a compelling choice for those who need more room without stepping into the full-size SUV category. Its arrival has filled a crucial niche, combining Toyota’s reputation for reliability with the flexibility and comfort that modern families expect from a three-row SUV.
Design and Exterior Features
The Grand Highlander boasts a bold and contemporary exterior, characterized by its sculpted lines, prominent grille, and athletic stance. The vehicle’s larger proportions translate into a commanding road presence, while thoughtful design elements such as LED headlights, available 20-inch alloy wheels, and a hands-free power liftgate enhance both aesthetics and functionality. The Grand Highlander is available in several trims, each offering unique styling cues and exterior accents to suit a variety of tastes.
- LED lighting for improved visibility and modern appeal
- Roof rails for added practicality
- Multiple color options to match personal preferences
Interior Comfort and Versatility
One of the Grand Highlander’s standout features is its spacious and thoughtfully designed interior. With seating for up to eight passengers, the SUV provides ample room in all three rows, ensuring comfort on long journeys. The second-row can be configured with either a bench seat or captain’s chairs, offering flexibility for families of different sizes. High-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and available leather upholstery contribute to a refined cabin atmosphere.
- Generous legroom in all three rows
- Tri-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort
- Heated and ventilated front and second-row seats in higher trims
- Panoramic moonroof for an open, airy feel
Cargo space is another highlight, with the Grand Highlander offering one of the largest cargo areas in its class. With all seats in use, there is still ample room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. Folding the third and second rows opens up even more space for larger items.
Performance and Powertrain Options
Toyota offers the Grand Highlander with a choice of three powertrains, catering to a variety of driving preferences and efficiency needs. The standard engine is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering a balance of power and fuel efficiency. For those seeking improved fuel economy, a hybrid variant pairs a 2.5-liter engine with Toyota’s hybrid system, offering impressive mileage without sacrificing performance. The Hybrid MAX powertrain, available on higher trims, provides even more power and torque for those who desire a more spirited driving experience.
- 2.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder: Smooth acceleration and responsive handling
- 2.5L Hybrid: Enhanced fuel efficiency for eco-conscious drivers
- Hybrid MAX: Higher output for dynamic performance
- Available all-wheel drive for improved traction in various conditions
Technology and Infotainment
The Grand Highlander is equipped with Toyota’s latest infotainment system, featuring a large touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and an available premium JBL audio system. Multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot ensure that all passengers stay connected and entertained on the go.
- 12.3-inch touchscreen on higher trims
- Intuitive navigation and voice commands
- Digital instrument cluster for easy access to vehicle information
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the Grand Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies. These features are designed to enhance driver confidence and help prevent accidents, making the Grand Highlander a reassuring choice for families.
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
- Available 360-degree camera system
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Grand Highlander is offered in several trims, including XLE, Limited, and Platinum, each with a distinct set of features and amenities. Pricing starts around $44,000 for the base XLE trim and rises with additional features and powertrain options. The hybrid and Hybrid MAX variants are positioned at higher price points due to their advanced technology and performance capabilities.
Comparison Table: Toyota Grand Highlander vs. Key Competitors
| Model | Starting Price (USD) | Seating Capacity | Max Cargo Space (cu ft) | Powertrain Options | EPA-Estimated MPG (Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Grand Highlander | $44,000 | 7-8 | 97.5 | Turbo 4-Cyl, Hybrid, Hybrid MAX | Up to 36 (Hybrid) |
| Honda Pilot | $38,500 | 7-8 | 87.0 | V6 | 22 |
| Kia Telluride | $37,500 | 7-8 | 87.0 | V6 | 22 |
| Hyundai Palisade | $39,500 | 7-8 | 86.4 | V6 | 22 |
| Chevrolet Traverse | $39,000 | 7-8 | 98.2 | Turbo 4-Cyl | 23 |
Driving Experience and Practicality
The Grand Highlander delivers a composed and comfortable ride, with responsive steering and a suspension tuned for both city and highway driving. The available all-wheel drive system provides added confidence in inclement weather and on rougher terrain. Sound insulation and thoughtful cabin design contribute to a quiet, relaxing environment for all occupants.
Practicality is at the heart of the Grand Highlander’s design. With its versatile seating arrangements, abundant storage solutions, and easy-to-use controls, the SUV is well-suited for busy families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who values adaptability in their vehicle. The power-folding third row, hands-free liftgate, and low load floor make loading and unloading cargo a breeze.
Ownership Experience and Reliability
Toyota’s reputation for building durable and reliable vehicles extends to the Grand Highlander. Owners benefit from a comprehensive warranty, access to Toyota’s extensive service network, and strong resale values. The hybrid models, in particular, are known for their long-term efficiency and low maintenance costs, making them an attractive option for cost-conscious buyers.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota Grand Highlander stands out as a well-rounded, family-focused SUV that excels in space, comfort, technology, and safety. Its range of powertrains, including efficient hybrid options, ensures there is a model to suit a variety of lifestyles and preferences. With its thoughtful design and Toyota’s commitment to quality, the Grand Highlander is poised to remain a top contender in the competitive three-row SUV market.