TORONTO: The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander made its world premiere hours before the opening day of the recent Chicago Auto Show to showcase the latest and greatest addition to the successful SUV lineup for Toyota.
It made its Canadian Debut at The Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto.
“There is definitely a need in the market for a midsize-SUV that prioritizes interior comfort in all three rows and Grand Highlander is the ultimate option,” said Lisa Materazzo, Group Vice President of Toyota Marketing at Toyota Motor North America. “This 3-row model takes the Highlander legacy to an entirely new space while also keeping on our promise to deliver on electrification.”
Grand Highlander offers options from entry level to efficiency to performance all in one incredible package. It is available in three powertrains across three grades: the well-balanced 2.4L turbo gas engine, the efficiency-leading 2.5L hybrid – with a manufacturer-estimated combined fuel consumption of 6.9 L/100 km, and the ultimate performance-seeking, 362 horsepower Hybrid MAX.
As part of Toyota’s diverse approach to carbon neutrality, the Grand Highlander Hybrid and Hybrid MAX vehicles are part of a lineup that looks to move “beyond zero.” With ten hybrids, two plug-in hybrids, the new bZ4X battery electric vehicle and the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell technology of the Mirai, Toyota is committed to finding highly efficient and zero emission solutions that fit customers lifestyles across North America. As a symbol of that commitment, the 2024 Grand Highlander will be the second Toyota vehicle to wear the new “Beyond Zero” badge, after the all-new Prius – a global effort toward achieving carbon neutrality in Toyota’s products, manufacturing and beyond.
Creature Comforts
Built on the TNGA-K platform, Grand Highlander is the active family cruiser fit for everything from short trips to long drives. It offers thoughtful storage areas throughout the cabin, ample cargo capacity with room for seven carryon suitcases behind the 3rd row. A total of around 98 cubic feet of space with the seats folded down, and a spacious adult-sized third row. Whether you’re the driver, passenger or are in the second or third rows – the Grand Highlander is fully functional for the road ahead.
Controls are centered around the standard 12.3-inch multimedia display. The configurable centre console can fit a tablet (with internal tray removed) and also features a wireless charger, two USB ports and three cup holders – including one capable of holding a large water bottle. While on the passenger side, a pocket capable of holding a small bag is provided. A sliding console cover is offered so that the lid can be opened and closed with the armrests in use, allowing for even more versatility for both driver and passenger. On the passenger side of the dashboard, another USB port and a tray capable of neatly holding a cord during charging are included, providing more usability for the passenger.
In the second-row seats, an air conditioning control panel and separate left/right USB ports are placed together on the top of the console end, within easy reach of second-row passengers. Cup holders are also provided on the centre armrest (bench seat specification), while cup holders, a smartphone storage slit, and multi-purpose tray are provided on the rear console for the captain’s seat configuration. A multi-purpose tray as well as additional water bottle storage is provided in the door trim.
And, for third row passengers, individual USB ports, smartphone/tablet storage space, and two cup & bottle holders are provided on the deck side, allowing for diverse usage scenarios. Additionally, a support grip for use during ingress and a hand support space for use during egress are provided to enhance the accessibility. Across all three rows, Grand Highlander is road-trip ready – equipped with 13 cup holders big enough for large water bottles and seven USB-C charge ports to keep devices charged and at the ready.
In Canada, heated front seats and heated steering wheel are standard on all grades. Other available conveniences include power folding mirrors (Limited and Platinum), heated and ventilated front and second row seats (Platinum), 1,500-Watt power outlets (Limited Hybrid and Platinum Hybrid MAX), and a hands-free power back door (Limited and Platinum).
A Powertrain for All
When it comes to performance and efficiency, Toyota offers both in the first-ever Grand Highlander. Offered in three powertrains with standard all-wheel drive (AWD) in Canada – the well-balanced 2.4L turbo gas engine, the efficiency-leading 2.5L hybrid and the ultimate performance-seeking, 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX with 400-pound feet of torque with standard AWD – there is something for everyone.
When it comes to the latest tech, the Grand Highlander is equipped with the best from Toyota – thanks to the standard 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system designed and engineered by Toyota’s Connected Technologies team. Grand Highlander drivers will also have the opportunity to access a wide range of enhanced available connectivity and convenience features, including Over-the-Air (OTA) updates.
Users can interact with the system through intuitive touch and voice activation controls. For those looking for an enhanced audio experience, Grand Highlander offers an available JBL® Premium Audio system with 11 speakers, creating a mobile concert from any music genre. Standard on the Limited and Platinum grades, with the use of Clari-Fi® technology, the system is also able to breathe life into compressed digital music formats enhancing the audio experience.
With the Toyota app, users can stay connected to their Grand Highlander with a 3-year trial of Remote Connect service.Ready to handle all your device charging needs, Grand Highlander is equipped with seven USB-C ports in the cabin. Convenience features are also aplenty for the Grand Highlander.
