Toyota’s latest offering, the Grand Highlander, is making waves in the SUV market, and for good reason. The name itself, “Grand Highlander,” suggests something bigger and more substantial than the already popular Highlander, and in this case, that’s precisely what Toyota delivers. For those in the automotive repair world and for families alike, this news is significant. The Grand Highlander isn’t just a stretched version; it’s a thoughtfully enhanced SUV designed to address the common criticisms of its predecessor and compete in a crowded segment.
The trend of “grand” vehicle names isn’t new. We’ve seen Jeep with its Grand Cherokee and Grand Wagoneer, and Chrysler with the Grand Caravan. Toyota is now joining this club, acknowledging the need for more space and capability in their mid-size SUV lineup. As someone who understands the mechanics and practicalities of vehicles, I can appreciate Toyota’s approach here. They haven’t just slapped a “Grand” label on the existing model; they’ve genuinely expanded upon it.
As a co-owner of a current-generation Highlander, I’m particularly interested in the improvements Toyota has made. While our Highlander serves us well, the third-row seating is undeniably cramped, and cargo space becomes virtually non-existent when those seats are in use. It’s a common issue, and Toyota has clearly listened to customer feedback. The Grand Highlander addresses these concerns head-on by adding valuable inches where they matter most.
The most significant change is the increased length, providing a more practical third row and retaining cargo capacity even when all seats are occupied. This is a crucial improvement for families who regularly need to utilize all seating positions without sacrificing luggage space. From a repair perspective, more space often translates to easier access for certain maintenance tasks in the rear of the vehicle, though we’ll need to get under the hood and chassis to see the real impact there.
The Grand Highlander I had the opportunity to drive was equipped with the Hybrid MAX powertrain, a top-tier option boasting an impressive 362 horsepower, thanks to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Initially, I was skeptical about the performance of a four-cylinder in a vehicle of this size, especially considering our six-cylinder Highlander. However, the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX proved to be surprisingly agile. The turbo lag was minimal, and the vehicle moved with authority. Toyota claims this is their most powerful midsize SUV to date, and after experiencing it firsthand, I’m inclined to believe them. Less powerful gas-only and standard hybrid powertrains are also available, offering a range of choices for consumers. Fuel economy in my suburban driving averaged around 22 miles per gallon, which is respectable for a vehicle of this size and power.
Stepping inside, the Grand Highlander’s interior is truly cavernous. The controls are intuitively laid out and easy to use, a hallmark of Toyota design. The brown leather in the model I tested added a touch of sophistication. During a Bluetooth phone call, I received a compliment on the clarity and minimal background noise, a testament to the vehicle’s sound insulation. Higher trim levels also boast advanced audio systems designed to enhance compressed digital music, appealing to audiophiles. And importantly, for anyone who has experienced the frustration of a flat tire, the Grand Highlander includes a spare tire – a practical feature often overlooked but greatly appreciated.
The price tag of the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX Platinum I tested was $59,878, positioning it closely to competitors like the Mazda CX-90 Turbo S. This price point reflects the premium features and performance offered, placing it in the upper end of the mid-size SUV market.
Interestingly, the Grand Highlander received mixed results in crash testing. While it earned the top rating of “good” in the updated side test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), it only achieved the second-best rating of “acceptable” in the offset frontal crash test. Safety ratings are crucial for family vehicles, and potential buyers should consider these results alongside other factors.
However, when it comes to long-term reliability, Toyota consistently ranks among the best. In the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, Toyota was a top contender, second only to its luxury brand, Lexus. This reputation for reliability is a significant selling point, especially for those planning to keep their vehicles for many years. From an automotive repair standpoint, Toyota’s reliability generally translates to fewer headaches and lower long-term maintenance costs for owners.
In conclusion, the Grand Highlander lives up to its name. It’s a grand step up from the standard Highlander, offering more space, enhanced performance with the Hybrid MAX option, and the renowned Toyota reliability. While the crash test results are something to note, the overall package is compelling, making the Grand Highlander a strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV segment. For families needing more space and for those who appreciate Toyota’s reputation for dependability, the Grand Highlander News is indeed “grand.”
