As a senior citizen, I’ve driven a lot of cars in my lifetime. I’ve had my Grand Highlander for 7 weeks now, and there is nothing I don’t love about it. Definitely, my all-time favorite car. (I got the Limited, all gas, second row captains chairs.)
I have had my Grand Highlander Platinum Hybrid Max for a month now. I took some of my friends on a mini trip and they were very impressed by the great ride and almost limousine quietness and comfort. We took turns driving and I have never had such a unanimous favorable response of a vehicle that I've owned. These guys are all car enthusiasts and are usually very hard to please. I was very surprised by their like for this car. We averaged over 26 mpg on the trip which to me is impressive for the torque and power this vehicle has. Well done Toyota!!
@@Mr.Carter77717 gallons but it has an issue filling up past 12 or 13 gallons unless you feather it in to 15. My biggest complaint but most people don’t care as you just fill up more often. Limited is getting about 500 real world miles (12 gallon fill up) and max is getting around 325 with 12 gallons.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH. I bought mine 50 days ago, I was complaining about the noisy engine, thinking there was something wrong with it. After watching your video, now my love for this car goes from 99% to 100%. I used to drive a 2011 Highlander, I tried the 2015, the 2022 one, but this model, the GRAND Highlander, is really impressive. The suspension is completely different, beside the interior design, the comfort, the features on this SUV (even on the base model) are mind-blowing. Sensors on every seatbelt, USB-C port everywhere for the kids' electronics. The center console makes me feel like a jet pilot, with all the buttons switch under my palm. And believe it or not, this engine is so powerful associated with the comfortability that on the highway, more than once, I realized I was going more than 25 miles over the speed limit, after passing all the other cars and I know I'm not a speedy driver. This car is just flying. Every traffic sign on the road shows up on the dashboard, pedestrians' crosswalk, sensors everywhere, lane change assistance, brake assistance (at any sudden obstacle on the way, the car slows down itself). Last week my daughter, opened her door to get out, and I heard "watch for moving vehicle" and I said "wait", then we saw that cyclist who was less than 10 feet away, passing next to us. I have the XLE model, I can't imagine the PLATINUM package.
I agree. I think this design is one of the best to come out of Toyota. I'm not sure about the value of the Hybrid Max over the regular hybrid, though. I think the Hybrid Max is actually designed to go with the solid state batteries, and they're using it now as a half step, getting it out in the market as an incremental improvement, and getting it tested in real world conditions, before switching to the solid state batteries. If we had the solid state batteries now, I'd definitely go with the Hybrid Max.
As from what I have heard, the hybrid max uses the bipolar version of the nickel-metal-hydride battery pack. This is the better version of their old same battery pack, and it can make similar energy density as the lithium ion battery pack while being less fire hazard too.
I do love Toyota, I do own 2012 Corolla and 2010 Prius right now. And recently bought a 2024 Grand Highlander Hybrid Limited as a replacement for 2018 Camry Hybrid. I am glad you’ve mentioned built quality like gaps. So here is what mine GHHL has. 1. Hatch closes flush on the left side not on the right side 3,5mm; 2. Rear fender flare gap is more on the left side. top LH side 5,2mm, RH side - 4,2mm. Bottom: LH side - 2.8, RH side - 3,2mm; 3. Gap between the fender and the hood. Top: RH side - 2,3mm, top LH side - 4mm, bottom: RH side - 3,5mm, LH side - 4,5mm 4. And the hood and headlamp is more on the left than on the right. Top: RH side - 3mm, LH side - 4,7mm. Middle: RH side - 3,5mm, LH side - 6mm. Bottom: RH side - 3mm, LH side - 4,5mm. The numbers might not look big on paper but when you actually look at the car - it doesn't look good; 5. Not mentioning that the hood and sides of the vehicle have scratches from the day one, like it went through the auto car wash right at the factory or at dealership.
David, After listening to this comprehensive analysis and grand praise for this Grand Highlander, I suspect many owners of ordinary Highlanders are having serious second thoughts about their purchase. I want to offer those people a honourable 'way out'. Anyone who is now too embarrassed to be seen in public with a not-so-grand Highlander can leave it parked outside my house. Just leave the keys and paperwork in my mailbox and I will take care of the rest of the details. 😉😉🤣
I think the new Honda Pilot is a better vehicle in this segment. It has better seating configurations and a naturally aspirated V6 engine. I expect the Pilot to be more reliable and have a better resale value in the future.
@@brianh5393 The Honda V6 gets poor gas mileage, which is why we purchased a Toyota Highlander Hybrid instead. All of our friends who own Pilots are considering buying a Highlander Hybrid or Grand Highlander Hybrid (perhaps even the new Lexus TX Hybrid or PHEV.) We have a Toyota Highlander Hybrid & get 22-36 mpg & the vehicle is a V6. It has held its value really well in the few years we have owned it & the eCVT is an engineering marvel! The brake pads are still ‘almost new’, b/c of regenerative braking, etc… Honda Pilot does NOT have a hybrid vs, or even one ‘in the works’. That’s fine if you don’t care about paying at the pump, or the environment. (Toyota has a recycling prgm for hybrid batteries). Also, a Highlander Hybrid is est. to last up to 300K miles, 50K more miles than a Honda Pilot.
@@brianh5393 I thought the pilots engine/trans was noticeably better than the GH turbo 4 but the seats are terribly uncomfortable, at least for me. Plus the GH is better on cargo space.
It is an impressive SUV. I love mine. We took it on a round road trip from MD to FL and was surprisingly very comfortable. However, Toyota has yet to address its software issues. One buyer I know is already in the process of lemon law with less than 500 miles on her GH.
At MSRP this is a good value. Unfortunately everyone around me is advertising it for thousands over which kills the value proposition. Hopefully as the supply goes up that problem goes away.
The all-new, 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander HybridMax is now one of my favourite three-row full-size crossovers, which is AWD and it only seats seven passengers.
@@mbenton6in terms of what aspect? Maybe for a small family or a primary driver who values driving dynamics but each has pros and cons depending on what the family needs or desires.
I have a 21’ Sienna XSE. We have no children but 2 seventy pound dogs. The room in the Sienna is going to be hard to beat as we have the super long slide seats there. I would likely need a bench seat in the second row. Our Sienna averages 34 mpg in very hot and humid SWFL. And the power is adequate for a hybrid. I wish Toyota would invest in a nav screen upgrade for the Sienna. I would get a new one. The styling is great too. Can you review a Sienna?
From outside maybe looks so good. But for me GH just too pricey for what u get. Same prime mark at $53k between GH limited and Honda Pilot elite. See the interior and you can tell the difference. I’ll definitely go for Honda Pilot.
I have the 2024 Palisade Calligraphy in Steel Gray and Beige interior and absolutely love this car but what the Palisade Calligraphy is lacking: wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel- it is manual, automatic door locks when you walk away, power folding mirrors, motion activated rear lift gate - has automatic proximity instead but I don’t like that as it can lift when you don’t want it to. What it has that others don’t and are really nice: massaging drivers seat, heated and ventilated 2nd row, heated 3rd row, power down and up 3rd row, seat change on sport mode or high speed driving- side bolsters squeeze in and seat bottom also adjusts, acoustic laminated glass all around. For the cost it is great, hope the reliability is good and have no problems with warranty support as I have heard may be a problem. The finance person highly recommended the additional warranty company as he stated it would be great to have in case Hyundai refuses a warranty claim for some reason and I have since read that is common with Hyundai, time will tell.
In Canada, if one wants to get a sunroof on the hybrid model, he has to pay more than 70K all in for limited trim, vs. xle trim on regular highlander for just 61k. Huge miss!
The only downer I see for this Grand Highlander is the Turbocharged engine. Whether it is warranted or not I have concerns about its reliability in the long long haul. The non turbocharged Toyota engines are almost guaranteed to see 200k miles with little to no repairs. I have had problems with turbocharged engines in the past and swore I wouldn't ever buy another but now it is hard to avoid them. I hope Toyota has somehow found a way to make a mega reliable one but with these newer engines we won't know for another 5 years or so if there are any unexpected issues.
Its nice to know I am not the only one with these questions about Turbocharged engines. It feels like you are going out on a limb to raise concerns and many people think the concept of having a turbo sounds exciting!!! WOW! A TURBO! @@alalvarez671 I have to admit I was not a fan of electric power steering either. I didn't think they had been perfected, I bought a new car with one and after only three years ..... You guessed it. It went out.
Unlike the 4Runner, LC, or GX, i don’t think you buy a highlander with those types of reliability expectations. For a family hauler the mpg matters more. Use it for the warranty period and move on. This is a legitimate criticism of the powertrains in the new iterations of those other models I mentioned
I want to thank you for your honesty about the new grand highlander pro max platinum. I’m in the market for a new car. I’m going to see if there are any available at the Toyota dealership. I appreciate your video
Looks like the GH is a great choice. I'll be looking to see what price it is actually available at. Lots of good info in the review. One suggestion though is to minimize how often you repeat the same comments. I was itching to fast forward when you started repeating yourself. Say it once, then recap it the very end.
Thank you for this very informative review. I've watched at least 15 Grand Highlander reviews in the last few weeks. Yours is far and away the most in-depth, practical, and comprehensive. Over the years I've owned multiple Toyota vehicles, including 2 Tacomas and three 4 Runners. I just traded my 2024 Sequoia Hybrid Capstone for the 2024 Grand Highlander Platinum. I purchased the 2024 Sequoia last November and drove it almost 5000 miles, mostly highway. I do like it, but found the cargo storage and limited space of the third row seating area very inconvenient. When I purchased my Sequoia I did not think that would matter much since my kids are adults and I've never sat in the third row. But after a couple of trips to drop my daughter's family at the airport (including my 2 teenage grandkids traveling with more luggage than anyone would ever need) and a long road trip with my wife and our 145 lb mastiff, it mattered. But the really difficult thing to reconcile was the gas mileage and tank capacity. Although it was rated at 19 and 22, I never broke 16.5 combined city and highway. Even worse was the range-average of 304 miles to the tank! I waited 9 weeks for the Sequoia. I've been waiting 6 weeks and counting for the Grand Highlander. After watching your video I am convinced the wait will be well worth it. Thank you again!
David, the highest trim levels are almost always going to get the most love. What about the regular GH hybrid with E-CVT? What are your thoughts on that vehicle with respect to engine, power, performance, and practicality?
What did you decide? I’m in same situation, needed a 3-row, got the V6 highlander limited (better torque-vectoring AWD). Don’t need to change but I like this vehicle, even nicer highway boat
Pilot is way more better with a v6 and affordability. Honda just needs a longer pilot (7 to 8 inches) with more 3rd passenger leg room and cargo space. It should be called the Grand Pilot.
First time seeing the grand highlander. It does not seem to have a roof rack despite being a platinum level. Also, I did not see that it can tow (maybe hidden). Maybe those are add on options. But for a basic people mover for a large family it seems great, though the style to me is bland. I wonder what the mpg is for the platinum. I assume the Lexus version will have tighter steering and more style but be a close cousin. Thank you
Tbh it's too expensive for what it is, and why not just buy a diesel suburban for the money your paying? It's much bigger an seats more, tows much more, 4wd can actually off road, and it's as fuel efficient if not more so. Last the 4 cylinder is what really kills it for me....I'd take the naturally aspirated v6 all day everyday over what it has now.
David, how about the gas mileage, we have a 2020 GX460 and we are thinking of that one or the TX, but where we live we have to travel to Edmonton to get the Gx fix, need your help. I did buy the TRD pro and best truck on gas.
David, I do not understand how car-based, unibody CUVs can be compared to truck-based, body-on-frame SUVs. 🤔 That is like comparing a comfortable walking shoe to a heavy duty construction boot. 😉
I presume lots of people cross shop without realizing the inherent differences. Some people prioritize image or certain features and make concessions on others, not dissimilar to people you see in public wearing certain types of shoes that may not be what you’d consider the norm for a use case.
Great review. Will be curious how this will go against the upcoming Land Cruiser. I am looking for my last car before I retire and die. Wondering if this will be the car. My worry is I tow a 3500lb boat and over the years the salt and all the dings from towing will wear it down. Not sure if the shocks will make it rugged enough when I hit curbs or go on dirt remote roads with the boat. May go with the Land Cruiser because of my reckless driving and abuse when towing the boat as the trailer will put a lot of weight on the hitch to slant the backend down.
What’s the difference to get in and out of compared to the regular highlander We are seniors and which one is easier to get in and out of We have bad knees 🙏✌️🇨🇦👍
@gk9417 Get the Toyota OEM Running Boards and it will help you easily step up into the vehicle. Easy bolt on installation with a couple of hand tools or dealer can order and install. A very nice addition to help your situation! 👍
I had the running boards installed at my dealership, some issues with knees and they make entry and exit much easier. When the doors are closed they are not terribly obvious. My comparison is with a Sequoia with running boards which was getting too high for me after 8 years of ownership.
The grand highlander I can turn and step out without stepping down like my tacoma truck. What I love is I don't have to try to stand up like a sedan. For me no vlimbing in or hopping down or from a sit to stand. I'm 5feet 4 inches and I just step out and it's effortless already standing. I had a bad back so sitting too low in a sedan and getting out and standing up is work. Love my grand highlander 🎉
David, do you think there will be a XSE version of the grand Highlander? I saw other reviews stated that it is pretty floaty to drive and passenger, especially those sitting third row will get car sick. I hope the XSE will have sport tuned suspension that will somewhat fix this
Excellent, thorough review. I have some back problems. So, I'm curious to know how comfortable the leather seats are in the Grand Highlander. Sometimes leather seats can be overly stiff, and some of them never really break in much over time. We have only been able to test drive the fake leather/vinyl seats in the XLE so far and have found them to be sticky and sweaty at times, though not stiff.
I have highlander limited with heated/cooled perforated leather seats. Higher grade material, soft, not plasticity/sticky and the ventilation makes heat and cooling much more comfortable. We drive 8+ hrs (with occ stop) very comfortably
Being practical just doesn't do much for the senses, though. I saw one of this last weekend sitting a on a dealer lot with a sold tag. The wheels and front clip are what attracted me, but the rest is very conservative and, in my opinion, that that interesting.
Other than space, is there any other advantage of GH vs CX 90? Ride quality, comfort, gas mileage? Is grand highlander really cushy and soft compared to cx 90?
GH probably has a smoother ride... everything else better on the cx 90.. handling nicer fit and finish,, more luxurious, fun to drive, more power( except for hybridmax on the GH). Looks appealing, smoother engine sound.
I would stear clear of the cx90 from my research theres a lot to work out with that inline 6. You have to pull the whole engine to change belts at the rear of the engine for example. Similarly to the telluride and palisade, you get the luxury wow factors but when you deep dive theres design issues and mechanical issues waiting for you down the road. Thats where toyota and honda shine. If your changing your vehicle every five years thats a different story
Yes the V6 is more “powerful” but only by a few ponies the 2.4t has way more torque which more beneficial in a 3-row SUV. The TX does have the V6, but with electric assist so it gives you the torque of a turbo.
We had a '16 Highlander for 7.5 yeras, and just got our Sumo Highlander. I can confirm that the turbo 4 in the base feels a lot quick in the Grand HL off the line than the V6, and is more responsive absolutely. Probably the higher torque figures despite lower HP and same vehicle weight.
I don’t think the Grand Highlander looks as good as the regular Highlander and has one serious design flaw. The overall look is boxy like a mini van. The Highlander is sporty, crisp and more aerodynamic. The Highlander gets 35mpg city and 35 mpg highway. This mileage has been verified by several independent companies including Motor Trend, Car & Driver, etc. my Highlander Platinum AWD gets 37 city and as much as 35-37 highway. The Grand Highlander, even with the turbo gets a real fuel mileage in the low 20-25 city and low 20’s on the Highway. A huge difference. While the 3rd row seat is much better than in the regular, I don’t use the 3rd row for just my wife and I and we do use the second row once in a while for family or friends. We bought the Highlander for cargo space to transport big suitcases and other things when the second and third row are down. Our regular Highlander is smooth, quiet(thanks to the soundproofing in the engine compartment and the acoustical glass) and gets actual phenomenal fuel mileage. The one major design flaw in the Grand Highlander is the rear jumper. It is flush with the rear hatch door so this door is going to sustain major damage if struck from the rear. Also the turbo is going to shorten the life of the engine as compared to the normally aspirated four cylinder in the regular Highlander. And in side by side comparisons the regular Highlander has a faster 0-60 time. The last negative on the Grand Highlander is the massive grill design that I was hoping Toyota would get away from entirely. The biggest reason I won’t buy the Lexus even though I can easily afford one.
Hello: I have the new Lexus LX600... I love it except the ride is not like car like, due to body on frame design. I wonder what your thoughts are for the new upcoming Lexus TX vs Lexus LX600. Best to you!
Bro I’d say etheir trade your LX600 or sell it idk and just get yourself a new highlander hybrid 2024 cause I own the highlander 2023 hybrid and it’s great on gas and ride and maneuverability feels great and has a light steering wheel like a car does as compared to heavy steering on heavy SUV’s!
The highlander can even fit in your garage aswell and you don’t need such a big truck a midsized SUV like the highlander will do since crossover’s are taking over in sales are in huge demand right now for a lot of people who don’t need a big truck like the LX600!
Grand highlander more roomy. Not sure if there's a gas mileage difference. If you like take each one with what you want on them and test drive same time of day and same route. Over all if mazda may look nicer the toyotss been known to last longer. Also I thi k it's pricier the grand highlander. I felt like mazda is small. I like reliability of toyotas.
I ordered one, but I finished buying the Kia Telluride and I very happy with more luxury interior and best looking overall in my opinion. Also a quiet V6
I had two different fully loaded Telluride's. Both had issues new cars should not have. If you still have that car in 5 years, you'll likely be reminded why Toyota is better. Also, if you get into the nitty-gritty of a telluride you can see all the little areas they cut corners, much of that car is lipstick on a pig even though the interior looks luxury the shortcomings are in the details
Its too bad Toyota dosen't make an SUV that can tow and haul a family at the same time. If you have 4 kids or more Toyota no longer cares about making a vehicle to suit your needs.
@asadb1990 Yes, they do... The 4runner with a 3rd row has no cargo space and is only suitable for small kids. To make things worse there's no heating or A/C vents in the 3rd row. IMHO it is not family friendly. The 1st and 2nd gen Sequoias are very family friendly however the 3rd gen is not. Toyota put a hybrid battery in the 3rd row taking up valuable space. Also, they changed the way the middle row could slide a tumble independently. The Tahoe, Expedition, and Wagoneer all have better seating options for a family.
As a senior citizen, I’ve driven a lot of cars in my lifetime. I’ve had my Grand Highlander for 7 weeks now, and there is nothing I don’t love about it. Definitely, my all-time favorite car. (I got the Limited, all gas, second row captains chairs.)
why does a senior citizen need a big ass car like this one? for you to drive 20mph on a freeway?
@@wyomingarbecause he can
To carry all his Grandkids😊
@@jrd5403 yeah he can also run a red light without looking and T-bone you because he can
@@wyomingargrandkids
I have had my Grand Highlander Platinum Hybrid Max for a month now. I took some of my friends on a mini trip and they were very impressed by the great ride and almost limousine quietness and comfort. We took turns driving and I have never had such a unanimous favorable response of a vehicle that I've owned. These guys are all car enthusiasts and are usually very hard to please. I was very surprised by their like for this car. We averaged over 26 mpg on the trip which to me is impressive for the torque and power this vehicle has. Well done Toyota!!
How big is fuel tank?
@@Mr.Carter77717 gallons but it has an issue filling up past 12 or 13 gallons unless you feather it in to 15. My biggest complaint but most people don’t care as you just fill up more often. Limited is getting about 500 real world miles (12 gallon fill up) and max is getting around 325 with 12 gallons.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH. I bought mine 50 days ago, I was complaining about the noisy engine, thinking there was something wrong with it. After watching your video, now my love for this car goes from 99% to 100%. I used to drive a 2011 Highlander, I tried the 2015, the 2022 one, but this model, the GRAND Highlander, is really impressive. The suspension is completely different, beside the interior design, the comfort, the features on this SUV (even on the base model) are mind-blowing. Sensors on every seatbelt, USB-C port everywhere for the kids' electronics. The center console makes me feel like a jet pilot, with all the buttons switch under my palm. And believe it or not, this engine is so powerful associated with the comfortability that on the highway, more than once, I realized I was going more than 25 miles over the speed limit, after passing all the other cars and I know I'm not a speedy driver. This car is just flying. Every traffic sign on the road shows up on the dashboard, pedestrians' crosswalk, sensors everywhere, lane change assistance, brake assistance (at any sudden obstacle on the way, the car slows down itself). Last week my daughter, opened her door to get out, and I heard "watch for moving vehicle" and I said "wait", then we saw that cyclist who was less than 10 feet away, passing next to us. I have the XLE model, I can't imagine the PLATINUM package.
I love it but I wish they offered 8 seats in the platinum trims and the infotainment setup should be more different than the normal highlander
I agree. I think this design is one of the best to come out of Toyota. I'm not sure about the value of the Hybrid Max over the regular hybrid, though. I think the Hybrid Max is actually designed to go with the solid state batteries, and they're using it now as a half step, getting it out in the market as an incremental improvement, and getting it tested in real world conditions, before switching to the solid state batteries. If we had the solid state batteries now, I'd definitely go with the Hybrid Max.
As from what I have heard, the hybrid max uses the bipolar version of the nickel-metal-hydride battery pack. This is the better version of their old same battery pack, and it can make similar energy density as the lithium ion battery pack while being less fire hazard too.
I do love Toyota, I do own 2012 Corolla and 2010 Prius right now. And recently bought a 2024 Grand Highlander Hybrid Limited as a replacement for 2018 Camry Hybrid. I am glad you’ve mentioned built quality like gaps. So here is what mine GHHL has.
1. Hatch closes flush on the left side not on the right side 3,5mm;
2. Rear fender flare gap is more on the left side. top LH side 5,2mm, RH side - 4,2mm. Bottom: LH side - 2.8, RH side - 3,2mm;
3. Gap between the fender and the hood. Top: RH side - 2,3mm, top LH side - 4mm, bottom: RH side - 3,5mm, LH side - 4,5mm
4. And the hood and headlamp is more on the left than on the right. Top: RH side - 3mm, LH side - 4,7mm. Middle: RH side - 3,5mm, LH side - 6mm. Bottom: RH side - 3mm, LH side - 4,5mm. The numbers might not look big on paper but when you actually look at the car - it doesn't look good;
5. Not mentioning that the hood and sides of the vehicle have scratches from the day one, like it went through the auto car wash right at the factory or at dealership.
David, After listening to this comprehensive analysis and grand praise for this Grand Highlander, I suspect many owners of ordinary Highlanders are having serious second thoughts about their purchase. I want to offer those people a honourable 'way out'. Anyone who is now too embarrassed to be seen in public with a not-so-grand Highlander can leave it parked outside my house. Just leave the keys and paperwork in my mailbox and I will take care of the rest of the details. 😉😉🤣
No hybrid for me
@@fartman10284
I think the new Honda Pilot is a better vehicle in this segment. It has better seating configurations and a naturally aspirated V6 engine. I expect the Pilot to be more reliable and have a better resale value in the future.
@@brianh5393 The Honda V6 gets poor gas mileage, which is why we purchased a Toyota Highlander Hybrid instead. All of our friends who own Pilots are considering buying a Highlander Hybrid or Grand Highlander Hybrid (perhaps even the new Lexus TX Hybrid or PHEV.) We have a Toyota Highlander Hybrid & get 22-36 mpg & the vehicle is a V6. It has held its value really well in the few years we have owned it & the eCVT is an engineering marvel! The brake pads are still ‘almost new’, b/c of regenerative braking, etc… Honda Pilot does NOT have a hybrid vs, or even one ‘in the works’. That’s fine if you don’t care about paying at the pump, or the environment. (Toyota has a recycling prgm for hybrid batteries). Also, a Highlander Hybrid is est. to last up to 300K miles, 50K more miles than a Honda Pilot.
@@brianh5393it has cylinder deactivation so I'd be careful.
@@brianh5393 I thought the pilots engine/trans was noticeably better than the GH turbo 4 but the seats are terribly uncomfortable, at least for me. Plus the GH is better on cargo space.
It is an impressive SUV. I love mine. We took it on a round road trip from MD to FL and was surprisingly very comfortable. However, Toyota has yet to address its software issues. One buyer I know is already in the process of lemon law with less than 500 miles on her GH.
She has a horrible dealership. The top Toyota dealerships do as much as they can to avoid giving Toyota a bad name
What is the issue?
At MSRP this is a good value. Unfortunately everyone around me is advertising it for thousands over which kills the value proposition. Hopefully as the supply goes up that problem goes away.
This should be called the grand RAV4. It takes most of his styling cues from it and it looks awesome.
Thanks, David! This was an excellent presentation of the Grand Highlander. The hybrid version has impressive mpg for such a large vehicle. 👍
The all-new, 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander HybridMax is now one of my favourite three-row full-size crossovers, which is AWD and it only seats seven passengers.
Toyota performed an excellent execution on the Grand Highlander. This model will really fit many customers needs.
Mazda cx90 is better
@@mbenton6in terms of what aspect? Maybe for a small family or a primary driver who values driving dynamics but each has pros and cons depending on what the family needs or desires.
@@ALMX5DPinterior is bland exterior is also bland. It only has space, that's greatervthan the cx90.
@@mbenton6 aesthetics are largely subjective, so again pros and cons depending on preference or opinion.
Yuk.@@mbenton6
I guess that's why the Century SUV is based on this same platform as Grand Highlander.
I bought my wife a Lexus NX and the lack of physical buttons did have me pause, but overall, it's such a great vehicle.
LOVED the inside knowledge about the assembly plant and the gap analysis - big perk to go with the GH
I have a 21’ Sienna XSE. We have no children but 2 seventy pound dogs. The room in the Sienna is going to be hard to beat as we have the super long slide seats there.
I would likely need a bench seat in the second row.
Our Sienna averages 34 mpg in very hot and humid SWFL. And the power is adequate for a hybrid.
I wish Toyota would invest in a nav screen upgrade for the Sienna. I would get a new one.
The styling is great too.
Can you review a Sienna?
That front end is beautiful 😍
It’s very simple but very strong and bold
Agreed. It's a shame that the rear is so... bland.
@@rfestejo yeah, I was going to include that in my comment in the rear end doesn’t carry the aggressive of the front Yeah
From outside maybe looks so good. But for me GH just too pricey for what u get. Same prime mark at $53k between GH limited and Honda Pilot elite. See the interior and you can tell the difference. I’ll definitely go for Honda Pilot.
The selling point too for me is the v6 of the pilot vs the 4cyl turbo i have a hard time stomaching even tho i love toyota
Thanks David, I was looking forward to when this video was going to come out! Really enjoyed your review, I'm looking forward to when my GH arrives!
Really enjoy your reviews. Thank you.
I have the 2024 Palisade Calligraphy in Steel Gray and Beige interior and absolutely love this car but what the Palisade Calligraphy is lacking: wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel- it is manual, automatic door locks when you walk away, power folding mirrors, motion activated rear lift gate - has automatic proximity instead but I don’t like that as it can lift when you don’t want it to. What it has that others don’t and are really nice: massaging drivers seat, heated and ventilated 2nd row, heated 3rd row, power down and up 3rd row, seat change on sport mode or high speed driving- side bolsters squeeze in and seat bottom also adjusts, acoustic laminated glass all around. For the cost it is great, hope the reliability is good and have no problems with warranty support as I have heard may be a problem. The finance person highly recommended the additional warranty company as he stated it would be great to have in case Hyundai refuses a warranty claim for some reason and I have since read that is common with Hyundai, time will tell.
In Canada, if one wants to get a sunroof on the hybrid model, he has to pay more than 70K all in for limited trim, vs. xle trim on regular highlander for just 61k. Huge miss!
The only downer I see for this Grand Highlander is the Turbocharged engine. Whether it is warranted or not I have concerns about its reliability in the long long haul. The non turbocharged Toyota engines are almost guaranteed to see 200k miles with little to no repairs. I have had problems with turbocharged engines in the past and swore I wouldn't ever buy another but now it is hard to avoid them. I hope Toyota has somehow found a way to make a mega reliable one but with these newer engines we won't know for another 5 years or so if there are any unexpected issues.
Its nice to know I am not the only one with these questions about Turbocharged engines. It feels like you are going out on a limb to raise concerns and many people think the concept of having a turbo sounds exciting!!! WOW! A TURBO! @@alalvarez671
I have to admit I was not a fan of electric power steering either. I didn't think they had been perfected, I bought a new car with one and after only three years ..... You guessed it. It went out.
Unlike the 4Runner, LC, or GX, i don’t think you buy a highlander with those types of reliability expectations. For a family hauler the mpg matters more. Use it for the warranty period and move on. This is a legitimate criticism of the powertrains in the new iterations of those other models I mentioned
Awesome review!
I want to thank you for your honesty about the new grand highlander pro max platinum. I’m in the market for a new car. I’m going to see if there are any available at the Toyota dealership. I appreciate your video
I’m happy with my highlander platinum glazed caramel interior. ❤️
Now I got my eye on that 2024 first edition Land Cruiser 😂
Looks like the GH is a great choice. I'll be looking to see what price it is actually available at. Lots of good info in the review. One suggestion though is to minimize how often you repeat the same comments. I was itching to fast forward when you started repeating yourself. Say it once, then recap it the very end.
Thank you for this very informative review. I've watched at least 15 Grand Highlander reviews in the last few weeks. Yours is far and away the most in-depth, practical, and comprehensive.
Over the years I've owned multiple Toyota vehicles, including 2 Tacomas and three 4 Runners. I just traded my 2024 Sequoia Hybrid Capstone for the 2024 Grand Highlander Platinum. I purchased the 2024 Sequoia last November and drove it almost 5000 miles, mostly highway. I do like it, but found the cargo storage and limited space of the third row seating area very inconvenient. When I purchased my Sequoia I did not think that would matter much since my kids are adults and I've never sat in the third row. But after a couple of trips to drop my daughter's family at the airport (including my 2 teenage grandkids traveling with more luggage than anyone would ever need) and a long road trip with my wife and our 145 lb mastiff, it mattered. But the really difficult thing to reconcile was the gas mileage and tank capacity. Although it was rated at 19 and 22, I never broke 16.5 combined city and highway. Even worse was the range-average of 304 miles to the tank!
I waited 9 weeks for the Sequoia. I've been waiting 6 weeks and counting for the Grand Highlander. After watching your video I am convinced the wait will be well worth it.
Thank you again!
ii like the regular highlander ,the design is not boring but i also like this one.
i like that there is options
Thanks for such a Thorough Review. 👍🙏
Hi David,
The grand highlander is a fine SUV🇯🇵❤️🤍
David, the highest trim levels are almost always going to get the most love. What about the regular GH hybrid with E-CVT? What are your thoughts on that vehicle with respect to engine, power, performance, and practicality?
Awesome this video has helped me alot!! Btw do the foglights have option to change to yellow?😮
This guy knows his stuff .. great video
Well, now you can get it as a $170,000 Century SUV.
I think the hybrid version 2.5 non turbo would be the one to get for mileage. But I still love my GX
GX gang 🤟🤟
For life 🙌🏻
Would you upgrade from a 2022 regular highlander? And give up the V6? Trying to decide if it’s worth the upgrade since it will cost a lot
What did you decide? I’m in same situation, needed a 3-row, got the V6 highlander limited (better torque-vectoring AWD). Don’t need to change but I like this vehicle, even nicer highway boat
Pilot is way more better with a v6 and affordability. Honda just needs a longer pilot (7 to 8 inches) with more 3rd passenger leg room and cargo space. It should be called the Grand Pilot.
agree just saw one, really like it same with the crown , id put sequoia last place fold down 3rd row takes up to much space when folded down
I sat in the grand highlander when shopping for a 4Runner. My wife and I disliked the way you sit. It felt low like the tacoma.
Was the seat bottom adjusted up for height?
What is the fuel consumption rate? What is better in terms of fuel consumption: Limited or Platinum?
thank you❤
Do you think we need a side runner step for Grand highlander? How will it improve your car entry.
Just picked up my GH a week ago. Very fun drive.
You talked about value but never said the price. Still wondering if it’ll be worth making the move from my Dodge Ram Pickup
First time seeing the grand highlander. It does not seem to have a roof rack despite being a platinum level. Also, I did not see that it can tow (maybe hidden). Maybe those are add on options. But for a basic people mover for a large family it seems great, though the style to me is bland. I wonder what the mpg is for the platinum. I assume the Lexus version will have tighter steering and more style but be a close cousin. Thank you
Has roof rack mounting points, and can add a hitch.
I really like the sequoia but this so practical
great insight. Thanks for doing it.
How what a review!!!! Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
The problem is the new engine reliability
Tbh it's too expensive for what it is, and why not just buy a diesel suburban for the money your paying? It's much bigger an seats more, tows much more, 4wd can actually off road, and it's as fuel efficient if not more so. Last the 4 cylinder is what really kills it for me....I'd take the naturally aspirated v6 all day everyday over what it has now.
Does it comes with adaptive headlights?
David, how about the gas mileage, we have a 2020 GX460 and we are thinking of that one or the TX, but where we live we have to travel to Edmonton to get the Gx fix, need your help. I did buy the TRD pro and best truck on gas.
Get the hybrid max grand highlander won’t let you down and will be reliable trust me!
Great video !
David, I do not understand how car-based, unibody CUVs can be compared to truck-based, body-on-frame SUVs. 🤔 That is like comparing a comfortable walking shoe to a
heavy duty construction boot. 😉
I presume lots of people cross shop without realizing the inherent differences. Some people prioritize image or certain features and make concessions on others, not dissimilar to people you see in public wearing certain types of shoes that may not be what you’d consider the norm for a use case.
What do you think of the regular hybrid, not the max?
Looks pretty basic online but gotta see in person to see how it really looks.
I can confirm that It definitely looks better in person!
Great review. Will be curious how this will go against the upcoming Land Cruiser. I am looking for my last car before I retire and die. Wondering if this will be the car. My worry is I tow a 3500lb boat and over the years the salt and all the dings from towing will wear it down. Not sure if the shocks will make it rugged enough when I hit curbs or go on dirt remote roads with the boat. May go with the Land Cruiser because of my reckless driving and abuse when towing the boat as the trailer will put a lot of weight on the hitch to slant the backend down.
Can you comment on the thickness of the metal sheet the car is built with? How solid the doors close?
From personal experience, doors are solid but hood moves a lot near windshield. I disagree on paint....lots of orange peel
@@CarynParadis not sure if you compared the same on Lexus TX.
Are you say that the Indiana build is comparable to Tahara plant build of Lexus/4Runner?
What’s the difference to get in and out of compared to the regular highlander We are seniors and which one is easier to get in and out of We have bad knees 🙏✌️🇨🇦👍
@gk9417
Get the Toyota OEM Running Boards and it will help you easily step up into the vehicle.
Easy bolt on installation with a couple of hand tools or dealer can order and install.
A very nice addition to help your situation! 👍
I had the running boards installed at my dealership, some issues with knees and they make entry and exit much easier. When the doors are closed they are not terribly obvious. My comparison is with a Sequoia with running boards which was getting too high for me after 8 years of ownership.
The grand highlander I can turn and step out without stepping down like my tacoma truck. What I love is I don't have to try to stand up like a sedan. For me no vlimbing in or hopping down or from a sit to stand. I'm 5feet 4 inches and I just step out and it's effortless already standing. I had a bad back so sitting too low in a sedan and getting out and standing up is work. Love my grand highlander 🎉
Great insights!
What is the cargo cover that has a Toyota logo and covers the 3rd row seats when they lie flat?
David, do you think there will be a XSE version of the grand Highlander? I saw other reviews stated that it is pretty floaty to drive and passenger, especially those sitting third row will get car sick. I hope the XSE will have sport tuned suspension that will somewhat fix this
Excellent, thorough review. I have some back problems. So, I'm curious to know how comfortable the leather seats are in the Grand Highlander. Sometimes leather seats can be overly stiff, and some of them never really break in much over time. We have only been able to test drive the fake leather/vinyl seats in the XLE so far and have found them to be sticky and sweaty at times, though not stiff.
The Limited and Platinum trims have comfortable seats
I have highlander limited with heated/cooled perforated leather seats. Higher grade material, soft, not plasticity/sticky and the ventilation makes heat and cooling much more comfortable. We drive 8+ hrs (with occ stop) very comfortably
Looking to this or the TX. Replacing a 22 gx that my family has outgrown faster than I’d hoped.
Excellent review overall.
I’m not sure what the longevity of this new 4 cylinder engine will be especially if your towing
I like the title. That’s what I’ve been saying that since it’s reveal.
Being practical just doesn't do much for the senses, though. I saw one of this last weekend sitting a on a dealer lot with a sold tag. The wheels and front clip are what attracted me, but the rest is very conservative and, in my opinion, that that interesting.
Great review! I am inclined to get it.
Sticking with my 2022 Highlander with its smooth and highly dependable six-cylinder engine, thank you!
I would never buy a Lexus/Toyota made outside of Japan. It’s not just the process, but the people.
Other than space, is there any other advantage of GH vs CX 90? Ride quality, comfort, gas mileage? Is grand highlander really cushy and soft compared to cx 90?
GH probably has a smoother ride... everything else better on the cx 90.. handling nicer fit and finish,, more luxurious, fun to drive, more power( except for hybridmax on the GH). Looks appealing, smoother engine sound.
I would stear clear of the cx90 from my research theres a lot to work out with that inline 6. You have to pull the whole engine to change belts at the rear of the engine for example. Similarly to the telluride and palisade, you get the luxury wow factors but when you deep dive theres design issues and mechanical issues waiting for you down the road. Thats where toyota and honda shine. If your changing your vehicle every five years thats a different story
great review!
Bring back 35k suvs, iam not paying 60k for this!!!
Get a rav4…
Sounds like being poor sucks
the V6 is a more powerful, quiet, reliable engine than the turbo 4, that is why it will be in the lexus TX
Yes the V6 is more “powerful” but only by a few ponies the 2.4t has way more torque which more beneficial in a 3-row SUV. The TX does have the V6, but with electric assist so it gives you the torque of a turbo.
And that’s why it will be in the budget Century SUV.
@@alwaysiyi272it’s about preventing planned obsolescence, not about the power.
Remember to consider power in terms of peak power versus power in terms of area under an RPM curve. I’d imagine the turbo mill has more of the latter.
We had a '16 Highlander for 7.5 yeras, and just got our Sumo Highlander. I can confirm that the turbo 4 in the base feels a lot quick in the Grand HL off the line than the V6, and is more responsive absolutely. Probably the higher torque figures despite lower HP and same vehicle weight.
I don’t think the Grand Highlander looks as good as the regular Highlander and has one serious design flaw. The overall look is boxy like a mini van. The Highlander is sporty, crisp and more aerodynamic. The Highlander gets 35mpg city and 35 mpg highway. This mileage has been verified by several independent companies including Motor Trend, Car & Driver, etc. my Highlander Platinum AWD gets 37 city and as much as 35-37 highway. The Grand Highlander, even with the turbo gets a real fuel mileage in the low 20-25 city and low 20’s on the Highway. A huge difference. While the 3rd row seat is much better than in the regular, I don’t use the 3rd row for just my wife and I and we do use the second row once in a while for family or friends. We bought the Highlander for cargo space to transport big suitcases and other things when the second and third row are down. Our regular Highlander is smooth, quiet(thanks to the soundproofing in the engine compartment and the acoustical glass) and gets actual phenomenal fuel mileage. The one major design flaw in the Grand Highlander is the rear jumper. It is flush with the rear hatch door so this door is going to sustain major damage if struck from the rear. Also the turbo is going to shorten the life of the engine as compared to the normally aspirated four cylinder in the regular Highlander. And in side by side comparisons the regular Highlander has a faster 0-60 time. The last negative on the Grand Highlander is the massive grill design that I was hoping Toyota would get away from entirely. The biggest reason I won’t buy the Lexus even though I can easily afford one.
TLDR
Thank you for your video.
Where are the 3rd row weather back matts from?
Have to see the new 4runner first!
I totally agree
Great job
Hello: I have the new Lexus LX600... I love it except the ride is not like car like, due to body on frame design. I wonder what your thoughts are for the new upcoming Lexus TX vs Lexus LX600. Best to you!
Bro I’d say etheir trade your LX600 or sell it idk and just get yourself a new highlander hybrid 2024 cause I own the highlander 2023 hybrid and it’s great on gas and ride and maneuverability feels great and has a light steering wheel like a car does as compared to heavy steering on heavy SUV’s!
The highlander can even fit in your garage aswell and you don’t need such a big truck a midsized SUV like the highlander will do since crossover’s are taking over in sales are in huge demand right now for a lot of people who don’t need a big truck like the LX600!
Toyota as a company should implement measures to safeguard their vehicles against theft.
what do you say about Toyota Mark X ?
Great tutorial
CX-90 and Grand Highlander, which one I should buy it?
Buy both they’re good
Grand highlander more roomy. Not sure if there's a gas mileage difference. If you like take each one with what you want on them and test drive same time of day and same route. Over all if mazda may look nicer the toyotss been known to last longer. Also I thi k it's pricier the grand highlander. I felt like mazda is small. I like reliability of toyotas.
the GH & TX may be built in the same factory, but the TX requires PREMIUM gas.... that is an automatic disqualifier.
Highlander still ain’t a bad truck though better than the likes of sequoia, 4 runner, LX600, GX 550 AND THE NEW 2024 LAND CRUISER!
Also, it has a great bullet proof 6 speed transmission!
There few law suits against Toyota in US misleading customers about size of fuel tank 17 gallons vs 12 gallons claim by GH owenrs!
Why should they keep producing the Highlander. The Grand Highlander is not much more money but a lot more vehicle.
Cargo with 3rd row up???
Anyone have experience with this compared to a Subaru Ascent?
What’s the ground clearance ?
8.5”
I prefer my 22 Highlander XSE V6 with the Red cabin. Looks better too
I ordered one, but I finished buying the Kia Telluride and I very happy with more luxury interior and best looking overall in my opinion. Also a quiet V6
You can't compare a Kia to a toyota 😅
@@benttdogg321Right!...and wait 5 years for the value!
I had two different fully loaded Telluride's. Both had issues new cars should not have. If you still have that car in 5 years, you'll likely be reminded why Toyota is better. Also, if you get into the nitty-gritty of a telluride you can see all the little areas they cut corners, much of that car is lipstick on a pig even though the interior looks luxury the shortcomings are in the details
Let’s see how a 4 cyl turbo hold moving this big SUV
Its too bad Toyota dosen't make an SUV that can tow and haul a family at the same time. If you have 4 kids or more Toyota no longer cares about making a vehicle to suit your needs.
Doesnt the 4runner and sequoia, have a 3rd row
@asadb1990 Yes, they do...
The 4runner with a 3rd row has no cargo space and is only suitable for small kids. To make things worse there's no heating or A/C vents in the 3rd row. IMHO it is not family friendly.
The 1st and 2nd gen Sequoias are very family friendly however the 3rd gen is not. Toyota put a hybrid battery in the 3rd row taking up valuable space. Also, they changed the way the middle row could slide a tumble independently. The Tahoe, Expedition, and Wagoneer all have better seating options for a family.
Is this 4wd or awd ?
awd
I was looking for the laughing emogi cause the question is "better in what"?? Off-Roading? I doubt it... 😅