If the standard Highlander isn’t big enough for you, Toyota has the answer with the new Grand Highlander 2024 larger and longer that will have its debut at the Chicago Auto Show. This midsize family SUV sits on the same platform as the smaller Highlander, offered with two hybrid powertrains, three rows of seats that accommodate up to eight passengers and everything you need for a long-distance road trip.
Bodywork of the new Grand Highlander
At first glance, the Grand Highlander is boxier and simpler Like its little brother, the Highlander, Toyota’s new SUV was designed by the team at Calty Design Studios in California. Body-colored rear pillars suggest sturdiness and strength, while smooth surfaces express a simple, rugged design.
Offered in three grades: XLE, Limited, or Platinum; and can be had with wheels ranging from 18 inches to 20 inches in diameter. A panoramic sunroof is also available.
Toyota will build the Grand Highlander at its plant in Princeton, Indiana, as a 2024 model year. Pricing and a production schedule will be announced in the third quarter of the year, according to Toyota.
Interior of the new Grand Highlander
The purpose of the Grand Highlander is to be great. And indeed, Toyota promises that the SUV will offer up to 98 cubic feet (2,775 liters) of volume with the seats folded down, about 14 cubic feet (396 liters) more than the standard Highlander. Even with the third-row seats occupied, the Japanese automaker notes that the trunk will be large enough to fit seven carry-on suitcases.
Toyota also ensures that the last row of seats is big enough for adults to sit comfortably, and those in it will have a USB port, a place to store a smartphone or tablet, and two cup holders.
In all, the Grand Highlander comes equipped with 13 cup holders and seven USB-C ports. Second-row passengers will also get an air conditioning control panel, and the Grand Highlander can be outfitted with captain’s chairs or a bench.
Grand Highlander can be updated over the air, so smart features like voice assistant will keep up with the latest innovations and enhancements.
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Security and connectivity
In addition, a lots of connected services are available. A 10-year trial of services such as Toyota Emergency Assistance Service, 24/7 Roadside Assistance, a Stolen Vehicle Locator and more is offered. Vehicle health reports, maintenance reports and more can also be accessed with a separate 10-year trial.
Standard comes with collision warning, lane departure alerts, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, traffic sign detection, automatic high beams, and proactive driving assistance. In addition, it will offer a free one-year trial of Remote Connected Service, which allows owners to activate the headlights, start the vehicle, lock the doors and more using their smart device.
On the other hand, the Grand Highlander can be turned into a WiFi access point for up to five devices. The soundtrack will be provided by a JBL sound system with up to 11 speakers. You can also count on a head-up display, a wide-view monitor and Toyota’s advanced driver assistance system, Traffic Jam Assist.
Engines of the new Grand Highlander
As we mentioned, Toyota will have three engines with the Grand Highlander. Although all details are not yet available, the automaker has revealed that the base model will be offered with a 2.4-liter gasoline engine and a 2.5-liter hybrid will also be available. Both can be had with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Top-trim models will feature Toyota’s Hybrid Max powertrain. The engine first introduced with the Crown provides a hybrid configuration that makes 30 more horsepower (22 kW/30.4 PS) for this large SUV, producing a total of 362 hp (270 kW/367 PS) and 400 lb-ft (542 Nm) of torque.
It should be noted that while mileage figures for either model have not yet been shared, Toyota says the Grand Highlander Hybrid Max will be able to accelerate to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 6.3 seconds and tow up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg).
Fountain: carscoops
