I had a 2023 rav4 woodland edition and traded it within 3 month due to excessive wind noise from trunk area, roof leak from roof rack, rattle in passenger door and approx the same mpg as our grand Highlander hybrid (non max). The grand Highlander is a vast improvement over a rav4 in my opinion.
The MPG difference most likely comes from the increased size of the wheels on the limited and platinum. All that extra mass to rotate consumes more energy vs rotating air volume and minor tire sidewall on a small wheel.
We bought a GH Platinum Hybrid Max in Sepember of 2023. It now has 7650 miles on it. Over the weekend I drove from South Lake Tahoe, CA to Albany, Oregon and back for a total 1135 miles - I set the odometer at 0 at the start of the trip and didnt clear the mpg between refueling. That trip went over several mountain passes, through rain and sleet, driving around town a bit. My speed was set at 67 miles an hour on the freeway. When I arrived back in SLT the mpg showed an overall average of 27.6 mpg. OUTSTANDING ! Full-time AWD, 400lb of torque...oh what fun it is !!!!!! And...everyone stop worrying about that one cannot put more than 13-14 gallons when empty in the tank. Toyota purposefully left a greater margin of fuel in the tank so not to damage the Turbo. I get 375 miles from one tank (13-14 gallons) = 27.5mpg
That’s awesome for a bigger car like that. In a gas powered, I can squeeze 310 miles from a tank. With bigger wheels, 20”. Have you an idea how to read actual mpg on this car?
i bought GH hybrid limited. 1600 miles, driveng 50/50 city/highway. mpg is 33.5. can not be happier with everything this car provides. it has activ cruise control, you put desired speed, and car basically drives and steers itself. i will definitely suggest to purchase 360 camera option (i have it), this car is big, and not easy to feel its dimensions in tight spots, especially in crowded parking lots.
That's what we have coming some day. We drive 75 / 25, highway, city as far the total mileage we put on a car. Several longer trips a year and then in town in-between. Looking for the extra room for hauling. Hoping it's as quiet and smooth (or close on both counts), as our 2020 HL Limited we have now, with 88,000 miles
I would pick an XLE with sunroof, because this trim level is very well equipped. It's annoying that they do not have memory seats, but I could live with it.
Yeah the lack of parking sensors is a big let down. Pilot EX-L trim offers both parking sensors and memory seat. However Pilot has 9” infotainment screen with poor resolution. Both vehicles have pros & cons.
The XLE is perfect for me I’m so glad I was able to get one. The manager said they just had one come off the truck and I was lucky enough to snag it up. They have waiting list for them at most dealerships
Great review! I just ordered a Grand Highlander Platinum, but wanted a Limited. I didn't order the Limited, because Toyota just put a stop on any XLE and Limited orders with the panoramic roof. There's a panoramic roof supply issue and they're prioritizing them for the Platinum trim level.
YOU SHOULD NOT PAY DEALERS MARKUPS 😢 This is so sad. Toyota needs to pay attention. Do you really want the dealer to make money on a car more than the manufacturer does? The dealers already make tones of money selling car at MSRP.
For me, it all comes down to ventilated and heated seats. I can live without the sun roof. On long trips having a cooled down bottom makes a huge difference.
I detest leather seating, much prefer cloth which is always comfortable but to get the gadgets one desires, have to upgrade and get stuck with leather. should be able to get cloth seating g in any model.
Just picked up one of these 500 miles ago. XLE for me all the way. Nicely equipped, and decent price. Availability for every other GH option was 500+ miles away. 25 mpg so far is awesome too. Backup sensors should be standard IMO but are not an option on the XLE. great job on the review.
Wife just picked up the Platinum. Dealer ended up having the exact color she wanted. We ended up getting it for MSRP which took a while to negotiate.(car shopping has to be one of the worst experience) She really wanted hybrid max but they are going way over msrp right now especially in the color she wanted(white over black interior) She is coming from an 2021 Acura RDX A-Spec and I’m impressed at the tech that the GH Platinum has that her Acura didn’t.
I had my rav4 totaled.. So were getting a GH Hybrid XLE for replacement. Its coming next week. I think we made the right choice. Thanks for the review.
I began shopping for a Grand Highlander XLE in June 2023. My local dealer (FL) said they would add a $10k "market adjustment" to the MSRP. I declined and contacted the dealer where I bought my last Toyota (PA), an Avalon hybrid, and was told they would order a new vehicle for me and sell at MSRP. The downside is that it took 7 months to get what I wanted (XLE hybrid with 2nd row bench seat, gray interior). We'll be picking it up in January 2024. The XLE has everything my wife and I need with the exception of a driver's side memory function. I believe that feature should be standard for all Grand Highlanders. Our Avalon has that feature, and we use it routinely.
The dealer mark up was a probably for me, I really wanted a Limited or Platinum but they were price gauging so much I declined. I wound up buying a Honda Pilot Touring and it's been a nice bargain in comparison.
The new Honda Pilots look amazing. Plus options like a convertible/removable center seat in the second row blew my mind and really caught my attention. I’d really like to take a more in depth look at the new Honda Pilot.
I looked at them too and really liked them but then I found out it has a timing belt, expensive maintenance issue down the road also it has a GDI engine and that means more maintenance every 30,000 mile to get the carbon cleaned out of the engine. So, I am going to the Grand Highlander but that being said with what you get on the Pilot it is a better value up front IMHO.
@@Maddog29 the pilot is about 15k cheaper, you get more, the quality is better, toyota interior is getting very cheap. toyota is abusing their costumers, dont get me started on lexus
Great review. Thank you. All hybrids except Max come with CVTs. Max comes with 6 auto. All gas only come with 8 auto. I wish all hybrids came with 6 auto like hybrid Max.
We just bought a platinum for msrp. We were initially going for a limited with the pano moonroof and 360 camera, but then we realized that we might as well pay a little more and get the digital rear view mirror, heads up display and ventilated second row seats. No regrets yet.
If it was available with a bench seat and base hybrid, that's the model we would get as well. But without those things we ended up looking to get the limited model
We are buying a Grand Highlander in the Platinum edition! We decided to get the Platinum because, to be honest, I loved all the things that were on it, plus the one that was coming to the dealer was red! We had to reserve one to get that color, plus the black interior and trim package. My husband just bought a red Toyota Tundra limited edition, and it came fully loaded, and he absolutely loves it! Now, does he know what all it has on it? No, but I have gone over every single item on the spec sheet on my Platinum edition Grand Highlander and could probably tell him what he has on his limited truck because I see a lot of the same things that are on my Platinum edition Grand Highlander. I probably would have been okay with a Limited, but almost everything that I wanted was already on that model. I also wanted the Captains chairs, and the Limited that was coming in had a bench seat. In hind site, I probably should have tried to get one with a bench seat because we have two young granddaughters ages 4 yrs and 2 yrs old, and one on the way but I don't plan on taking all three out at one time. We will probably take the older two out, but as of now, we only take the 4 yr old out with us. Being grandparents, we can be choosy that way. Anyway, it was hard to get a new truck and a new car at the same time, but my husband's Ford truck just died and my daughter wanted to buy our 2015 Highlander since she was having a third kid and her Honda Pilot was falling apart. So, we just bit the bullet and bought both of them. Thanks for your review. It was so nice to see a review on the gasoline models and not the hybrids for a change. We didn't look into the hybrids because we had bought two Prius hybrid ones, and both had to have their batteries replaced more than one time. So, we are a little gun shy with the hybrids. Anyway, thanks again! Laura 😊
We have a 2014 Highlander platinum. Terrific vehicle but just a touch on the small side for our family now. Love the panoramic sunroof. If we were to get the grand highlander, I would really want the 360 camera. We’re a city family and find ourselves parallel parking regularly. I have scratched up the rims on both our cars over the years getting too close to curbs. I think those new cameras could help quite a bit. But I wish they included the bench seat option in the higher trim levels. We have 2 boys and regularly carpool for sports. Our 2017 Odyssey has a 2nd row bench with the middle seat that can actually be removed. It’s great to have the flexibility of adding another kid in the second row rather than sending someone back to the 3rd row.
If you liked your Highlander, you’d really like the Grand Highlander. Much more room on the inside, especially in the third row and the storage behind the third row. However, it doesn’t feel that much bigger driving it.
According to Toyota website, there is not much of a difference in cargo volume between Sequioa and Grand Highlander. If anything the Grand Highlander has more cargo space. Also, the Sequioa does not lay flat for 3rd row.. Sequioa: Cargo volume (cu. ft.) (behind front/second-row/third-row seats (sliding)) * 86.9/49.0/22.3-11.5 Grand Highlander: Cargo volume (cu. ft.) (behind front/second-row/third-row seats (up)) * 97.5/57.9/20.6 It does appear you get more space around seats though(Taller and wider) with sequioa..
I would pick the Grand Highlander Limited Hybrid. It has more features that I want. One being the surround view monitor as an option. Driver seat memory is a must as is a heated steering wheel. I keep my Toyota vehicles a longgggg time. My oldest is 26 years old. My youngest is 14 years.
I am in Canada. It has been 4 months since I ordered Hybrid XLE. My dealership told me that I might be able to get the car sometime next summer. So frustrating to wait that long. 😂
I ordered XLE gas model days ago. Not because any other reasons but lacking of inventory in Canada. This is the only way I can avoid a disliked color but still made a choice at non-favirate color.😂
The Hydrid Max and the XLE gas have the same towing 5,000 lbs and max tongue weight of 500 lbs and the XLE may even have a greater cargo carry capacity.
You're correct. I was meaning the standard Hybrid option is only able to tow 3,500 pounds while the Hybrid MAX and non Hybrid are capable of 5,000 pounds.
@@_mundokim There is a guy in GH forums, who lives in Indiana and takes car to dealer for fixing this issue. I think it’s a design issue with the hoods mechanism. Eventually Toyota is advised and trying to find a fix for it. Replacing the hood even doesnt solve the problem now. But looks like they will.
I would pick the Limited because it has everything I want and is well balanced out with standard features as well plus you can add on if you so desire.
Yeah tough call 34 MPG vs 20ish is ahard nut to swallow as is the turbo engine not having a long history like the hybrid does. I generally trade every 2-3 years (75 to 85,000 miles), so the hybrid will be fine and it will give me the time to decide if the next model will by a hybrid again or not
Ordered the Hybrid Max Limited trim with Pano camera and tow hitch. I wish they would offer the bench seat on the hybrid max but that is really the only compromise I had to make. Extra 3k for the platinum wasn't worth the few added features.
@@youngblood23rb was still on order until I cancelled it last week. They told me 7 months. I planned on 1 year. I ended up choosing the smaller Honda passport as it was a better fit for our current and future needs.
I believe Toyota underestimates their mpg. I drove a 21 Camry se from Myrtle beach to Knoxville tn. The car estimated 42 mpg. I drove around 450 miles. The vehicle still estimated 100 miles left in tank. I was completely surprised. When I filled the tank back up, it estimated over 500 miles of range.
The most annoying thing about the XLE, which I just purchased, is the lack of parking sensors. In 2024, I would expect that to be standard. Am I the only one?
Limited and Platinum comes with 20 inches wheels, more bigger, less efficient. I don’t know how to see the actual mpg of that car, I just know to read average mpg, and after 2.000 mine, with same gas engine had 17,6 mpg average.
Got the XLE last month. It was what I really wanted except that I wasn’t able to get the one with sunroof. I wanted to get it before winter and first one available doesn’t have a sunroof. Actually second one from the dealer as I missed the call on the first one and responded to the text 2.5 hours later. So got the next available unit
Big water,tmp display, traffic assist? Yall need to buy a tesla. Sorry a toyota suv is a simple no frills suv which limits tech on purpose because it causes issues thats it. i just got an XLE with bench seat in coastal creme. Really nice vehicle. Only 2 issues i have are center console is large not allowing leg spread like i enjoy, and second the engine is buzzy and loud since its a turbo 4, it has plenty of pickup but lacks the feel of the 6 cycliner.
I did not. Everything seemed to properly in place and secure. I’m seeing comments like yours from other viewers that this is an issue with it vibrating. However, if that’s the case, then I would think that it’s simply not been adjusted appropriately. Therefore, it should be easily remedied by having it aligned and adjusting the hood stops.
We get our XLE hybrid in 3 weeks, I’m having last minute regrets to not get the limited for the extra bells and whistles, did you feel any regret not getting the limited? Also, I thought online traffic jam assist is not in xle model? Maybe that was an incorrect thing posted online?
You’re correct that the traffic jam assist is not available in XLE. It’s only available in the platinum trim. Although it’s not my personal vehicle, it’s tough for me to not want the XLE because of the bench seat for the second row. If my kids were a little older, I’d be more likely to be okay with captains chairs.
@@greatdane1122 that’s good to know and I can understand the dilemma for sure. Knowing I could be a bench on the limited, I would probably opt for the limited as I like having a good sound system and I like leather and heated second row.
I’ve never noticed the hood bouncing around on the few I’ve driven and I’ve never felt like the doors shutting seemed too light. Perhaps it’s just me, but I don’t expect many vehicles to shut with the same level of heavy vault like feel of German cars.
Are you finding stock in your area of the GH, sequoia, Land Cruiser? We have nine here in SE Mn. We are now older going to trade in my 2016 TRD Tacoma sport for one of the above. The sedans we aren’t interested in, mainly because of them being low to the ground. A couple items needed would be passenger seat power adjustable, passenger heated seats, a/c temp control for passenger side , am I going to get the limited if even the platinum models? So far the GH is my pick, unless I can like the other big boys better Lastly, thanks for posting very informative
We have been having stock in our area. I personally would choose the Grand Highlander, although I think the Sequoia looks the best. the lack of storage behind the 3rd row is very important to me so the Sequoia is out. If you're coming from the Tacoma, you'll find the Grand Highlander to be a welcome change in interior comfort and ride quality.
@@MOHAWKAUTO I just read your bio. Ha! Also a veteran , former RE broker, 9 years, retired as a mortgage banker after 30 years. Looks like you’re enjoying cars and sharing.
@@MOHAWKAUTO great! double major? Finance ? Opens many doors for you, not tied to one field. My major was Business marketing/administration. I’m in Minnesota.
It does appear as though there are some lift kits for the Highlander available. I couldn't find any for the Grand Highlander, but I wouldn't be surprised if the Highlander kits could fit, but haven't been confirmed yet.
@@MOHAWKAUTO styling, interior trim. To me the interior trim of a Highlander Limited looks the best. Dash. And screen look sharp. My 2015 Highlander with 111,000 miles drives, feels, and looks like a brand new car. PS, I also had a 2008 Highlander Hybrid. I should have never traded it.
@MOHAWKAUTO I have GH XLE Hybrid...(Around 36.5 mpg so far best avg) does not come with the 360 camera view or ventilated seats. I have softex seats, heated 1rst row seats, integrated dashcam(save on car insurance), captain chairs on second row, panoramic moonroof, etc. In Mississippi we paid 52k whereas Limited runs about 58k+ and platinum runs around 61-63k+... Rare for dealers here to offer MSRP now without HIGH markup. We built ours and have great gas mileage. The XLE Hybrid was less and still has pretty much all the features. Love it! 2 months in and no regrets! I hear pretty much all dealers have halted orders for anything other than platinums until early 2024... at least here and surrounding states. Glad we ordered ours in September!
I have a ‘21 Highlander platinum. It has the reverse mirror tilt you can turn on or off. I have 6 cylinder and after 15,000 miles my average mpg I’d 23.7.
I don't believe that the Grand Highlander we tested had reverse tilt mirrors. I couldn't see an option for them either on Toyota's website. However, they do have a Curb View camera angle that seems to have replaced the tilt mirrors and aid in parallel parking and minimizing curbing the wheels.
Only thing better than a Rav-4 is a giant Rav-4. This looks perfect.
I have a rav4, and seeing the GH in person. It looks perfect to me. Im in love.
I had a 2023 rav4 woodland edition and traded it within 3 month due to excessive wind noise from trunk area, roof leak from roof rack, rattle in passenger door and approx the same mpg as our grand Highlander hybrid (non max). The grand Highlander is a vast improvement over a rav4 in my opinion.
Might trade in the rav 4 for this honestly cause it feels way too small!
The MPG difference most likely comes from the increased size of the wheels on the limited and platinum. All that extra mass to rotate consumes more energy vs rotating air volume and minor tire sidewall on a small wheel.
I hope the big wheel trend ends. I'd much rather have the better ride and better mileage.
Mpg difference comes from the Max of the limited and platinum with the bigger engine with the turbo
We bought a GH Platinum Hybrid Max in Sepember of 2023. It now has 7650 miles on it. Over the weekend I drove from South Lake Tahoe, CA to Albany, Oregon and back for a total 1135 miles - I set the odometer at 0 at the start of the trip and didnt clear the mpg between refueling. That trip went over several mountain passes, through rain and sleet, driving around town a bit. My speed was set at 67 miles an hour on the freeway.
When I arrived back in SLT the mpg showed an overall average of 27.6 mpg. OUTSTANDING !
Full-time AWD, 400lb of torque...oh what fun it is !!!!!! And...everyone stop worrying about that one cannot put more than 13-14 gallons when empty in the tank. Toyota purposefully left a greater margin of fuel in the tank so not to damage the Turbo.
I get 375 miles from one tank (13-14 gallons) = 27.5mpg
That’s good mileage!
That’s awesome for a bigger car like that. In a gas powered, I can squeeze 310 miles from a tank. With bigger wheels, 20”. Have you an idea how to read actual mpg on this car?
i bought GH hybrid limited. 1600 miles, driveng 50/50 city/highway. mpg is 33.5. can not be happier with everything this car provides. it has activ cruise control, you put desired speed, and car basically drives and steers itself. i will definitely suggest to purchase 360 camera option (i have it), this car is big, and not easy to feel its dimensions in tight spots, especially in crowded parking lots.
That's awesome to hear! Thank you for sharing!
if anyone have more questions about GH hybrid limited, feel free to ask. ill answer them the best of my experience.
Did you pay msrp?
Hi, is it quiet, comfortable and have enough power when traveling on the highway
That's what we have coming some day. We drive 75 / 25, highway, city as far the total mileage we put on a car. Several longer trips a year and then in town in-between. Looking for the extra room for hauling. Hoping it's as quiet and smooth (or close on both counts), as our 2020 HL Limited we have now, with 88,000 miles
I would pick an XLE with sunroof, because this trim level is very well equipped. It's annoying that they do not have memory seats, but I could live with it.
Agree with the memory seats, but even worse is no parking sensors of any kind. The front hood is massive so no sensors is a mistake.
Yeah the lack of parking sensors is a big let down. Pilot EX-L trim offers both parking sensors and memory seat. However Pilot has 9” infotainment screen with poor resolution. Both vehicles have pros & cons.
The XLE is perfect for me I’m so glad I was able to get one. The manager said they just had one come off the truck and I was lucky enough to snag it up. They have waiting list for them at most dealerships
Great review! I just ordered a Grand Highlander Platinum, but wanted a Limited. I didn't order the Limited, because Toyota just put a stop on any XLE and Limited orders with the panoramic roof. There's a panoramic roof supply issue and they're prioritizing them for the Platinum trim level.
Ah...that's why it wasn't an optional add on for mine.
YOU SHOULD NOT PAY DEALERS MARKUPS 😢
This is so sad. Toyota needs to pay attention.
Do you really want the dealer to make money on a car more than the manufacturer does?
The dealers already make tones of money selling car at MSRP.
For me, it all comes down to ventilated and heated seats. I can live without the sun roof. On long trips having a cooled down bottom makes a huge difference.
I detest leather seating, much prefer cloth which is always comfortable but to get the gadgets one desires, have to upgrade and get stuck with leather. should be able to get cloth seating g in any model.
Agree! Thank you for commenting!
Just picked up one of these 500 miles ago. XLE for me all the way. Nicely equipped, and decent price. Availability for every other GH option was 500+ miles away. 25 mpg so far is awesome too. Backup sensors should be standard IMO but are not an option on the XLE. great job on the review.
Wife just picked up the Platinum. Dealer ended up having the exact color she wanted. We ended up getting it for MSRP which took a while to negotiate.(car shopping has to be one of the worst experience) She really wanted hybrid max but they are going way over msrp right now especially in the color she wanted(white over black interior) She is coming from an 2021 Acura RDX A-Spec and I’m impressed at the tech that the GH Platinum has that her Acura didn’t.
I think we’re starting to see a shift in dealer markup for the better. That’s great that you were able to get it for MSRP!
I had my rav4 totaled.. So were getting a GH Hybrid XLE for replacement. Its coming next week. I think we made the right choice. Thanks for the review.
You’re welcome and I’m sure you made a good choice.
I began shopping for a Grand Highlander XLE in June 2023. My local dealer (FL) said they would add a $10k "market adjustment" to the MSRP. I declined and contacted the dealer where I bought my last Toyota (PA), an Avalon hybrid, and was told they would order a new vehicle for me and sell at MSRP. The downside is that it took 7 months to get what I wanted (XLE hybrid with 2nd row bench seat, gray interior). We'll be picking it up in January 2024. The XLE has everything my wife and I need with the exception of a driver's side memory function. I believe that feature should be standard for all Grand Highlanders. Our Avalon has that feature, and we use it routinely.
I’m glad you got it for MSRP! It’s almost 2024, having a memory seat should be standard on every car no matter what.
The dealer mark up was a probably for me, I really wanted a Limited or Platinum but they were price gauging so much I declined. I wound up buying a Honda Pilot Touring and it's been a nice bargain in comparison.
The new Honda Pilots look amazing. Plus options like a convertible/removable center seat in the second row blew my mind and really caught my attention. I’d really like to take a more in depth look at the new Honda Pilot.
I looked at them too and really liked them but then I found out it has a timing belt, expensive maintenance issue down the road also it has a GDI engine and that means more maintenance every 30,000 mile to get the carbon cleaned out of the engine. So, I am going to the Grand Highlander but that being said with what you get on the Pilot it is a better value up front IMHO.
@@Maddog29 the pilot is about 15k cheaper, you get more, the quality is better, toyota interior is getting very cheap. toyota is abusing their costumers, dont get me started on lexus
@@be4unvme it may be 2 or 3 thousand cheaper but not 15. They are all overpriced in my opinion.
@@Maddog29the GH has a 5k - 10k markup where I'm at.
Great review. Thank you. All hybrids except Max come with CVTs. Max comes with 6 auto. All gas only come with 8 auto. I wish all hybrids came with 6 auto like hybrid Max.
We just bought a platinum for msrp. We were initially going for a limited with the pano moonroof and 360 camera, but then we realized that we might as well pay a little more and get the digital rear view mirror, heads up display and ventilated second row seats. No regrets yet.
Good.
Question?
Have paid Markups adjustment or there is not more ?
Congratulations
Good to hear!
If it was available with a bench seat and base hybrid, that's the model we would get as well. But without those things we ended up looking to get the limited model
We are buying a Grand Highlander in the Platinum edition! We decided to get the Platinum because, to be honest, I loved all the things that were on it, plus the one that was coming to the dealer was red! We had to reserve one to get that color, plus the black interior and trim package. My husband just bought a red Toyota Tundra limited edition, and it came fully loaded, and he absolutely loves it! Now, does he know what all it has on it? No, but I have gone over every single item on the spec sheet on my Platinum edition Grand Highlander and could probably tell him what he has on his limited truck because I see a lot of the same things that are on my Platinum edition Grand Highlander. I probably would have been okay with a Limited, but almost everything that I wanted was already on that model. I also wanted the Captains chairs, and the Limited that was coming in had a bench seat. In hind site, I probably should have tried to get one with a bench seat because we have two young granddaughters ages 4 yrs and 2 yrs old, and one on the way but I don't plan on taking all three out at one time. We will probably take the older two out, but as of now, we only take the 4 yr old out with us. Being grandparents, we can be choosy that way. Anyway, it was hard to get a new truck and a new car at the same time, but my husband's Ford truck just died and my daughter wanted to buy our 2015 Highlander since she was having a third kid and her Honda Pilot was falling apart. So, we just bit the bullet and bought both of them. Thanks for your review. It was so nice to see a review on the gasoline models and not the hybrids for a change. We didn't look into the hybrids because we had bought two Prius hybrid ones, and both had to have their batteries replaced more than one time. So, we are a little gun shy with the hybrids. Anyway, thanks again!
Laura 😊
It sounds like you both got great vehicles and so did your daughter! I’m glad you liked the review, thank you for the kind words.
Platinums are AWD standard, whereas the XLE and Limited trims have AWD available and those numbers are for FWD powertrains
We have a 2014 Highlander platinum. Terrific vehicle but just a touch on the small side for our family now. Love the panoramic sunroof. If we were to get the grand highlander, I would really want the 360 camera. We’re a city family and find ourselves parallel parking regularly. I have scratched up the rims on both our cars over the years getting too close to curbs. I think those new cameras could help quite a bit. But I wish they included the bench seat option in the higher trim levels. We have 2 boys and regularly carpool for sports. Our 2017 Odyssey has a 2nd row bench with the middle seat that can actually be removed. It’s great to have the flexibility of adding another kid in the second row rather than sending someone back to the 3rd row.
If you liked your Highlander, you’d really like the Grand Highlander. Much more room on the inside, especially in the third row and the storage behind the third row. However, it doesn’t feel that much bigger driving it.
According to Toyota website, there is not much of a difference in cargo volume between Sequioa and Grand Highlander. If anything the Grand Highlander has more cargo space. Also, the Sequioa does not lay flat for 3rd row..
Sequioa: Cargo volume (cu. ft.) (behind front/second-row/third-row seats (sliding)) * 86.9/49.0/22.3-11.5
Grand Highlander: Cargo volume (cu. ft.) (behind front/second-row/third-row seats (up)) * 97.5/57.9/20.6
It does appear you get more space around seats though(Taller and wider) with sequioa..
Thanks, but we all understand that the Sequoia is useless
I would pick the Grand Highlander Limited Hybrid. It has more features that I want. One being the surround view monitor as an option. Driver seat memory is a must as is a heated steering wheel. I keep my Toyota vehicles a longgggg time. My oldest is 26 years old. My youngest is 14 years.
That’s a long time for sure!
I am in Canada. It has been 4 months since I ordered Hybrid XLE. My dealership told me that I might be able to get the car sometime next summer. So frustrating to wait that long. 😂
That’s very frustrating for sure!
Yeah, ordered ours in September, and was told MAYBE by March:(
where abouts are you guys located in Canada ?
I ordered XLE gas model days ago. Not because any other reasons but lacking of inventory in Canada. This is the only way I can avoid a disliked color but still made a choice at non-favirate color.😂
I'm sure you will enjoy it! Thank you for the comment!
I'm regularly getting 38mpg+ on the hybrid version of this huge SUV. It's awesome.
The Hydrid Max and the XLE gas have the same towing 5,000 lbs and max tongue weight of 500 lbs and the XLE may even have a greater cargo carry capacity.
You're correct. I was meaning the standard Hybrid option is only able to tow 3,500 pounds while the Hybrid MAX and non Hybrid are capable of 5,000 pounds.
They total cheat!!! Push the price on hybrid max to 60 is overpriced
I think bench seats are also available with Limited.
Great video BTW. Some says there is an annoying hood vibration. Did u notice it?
It's the first thing I noticed when I got the car. It's super annoying, but aside from that, I love the car.
Thank you! You’re right about the bench seat. I actually never noticed the hood vibration and I hadn’t heard about it either until now.
@@_mundokim There is a guy in GH forums, who lives in Indiana and takes car to dealer for fixing this issue. I think it’s a design issue with the hoods mechanism. Eventually Toyota is advised and trying to find a fix for it. Replacing the hood even doesnt solve the problem now. But looks like they will.
I heard about the hood rattle in the forums
Definitely the limited. The extra power on the Maxs is nice but not worth 10 miles a gallon unless you need to tow
I would pick the Limited because it has everything I want and is well balanced out with standard features as well plus you can add on if you so desire.
I agree that the Limited trim is great!
I sure hope to discuss out limited soon
My biggest zonk for the Grand Highlander is the red turn signals. I strongly recommend amber turn signals for all vehicles.
We have had ours limited for a week now, best decision on a car ever, We travel a lot and this is the perfect fit, highly recommended.
Glad to hear! Thank you for the comment!
Limited Hybrid?
@@yahooskip No, thing with hybrid is overtime battery deteriorates and is pricey, I stick to gas engines
Yeah tough call 34 MPG vs 20ish is ahard nut to swallow as is the turbo engine not having a long history like the hybrid does. I generally trade every 2-3 years (75 to 85,000 miles), so the hybrid will be fine and it will give me the time to decide if the next model will by a hybrid again or not
@@yahooskip I work in the oil industry so I support it but I like your point
Ordered the Hybrid Max Limited trim with Pano camera and tow hitch. I wish they would offer the bench seat on the hybrid max but that is really the only compromise I had to make. Extra 3k for the platinum wasn't worth the few added features.
I feel the same way.
How long did it take from ordering to delivery?
@@youngblood23rb was still on order until I cancelled it last week. They told me 7 months. I planned on 1 year. I ended up choosing the smaller Honda passport as it was a better fit for our current and future needs.
I believe Toyota underestimates their mpg. I drove a 21 Camry se from Myrtle beach to Knoxville tn. The car estimated 42 mpg. I drove around 450 miles. The vehicle still estimated 100 miles left in tank. I was completely surprised. When I filled the tank back up, it estimated over 500 miles of range.
Similar experiences in our new Toyotas used for Turo is what prompted my question for the dealer. It makes a lot of sense to take that approach.
The most annoying thing about the XLE, which I just purchased, is the lack of parking sensors. In 2024, I would expect that to be standard. Am I the only one?
I agree it should be a standard feature these days
Limited trim, specifically the Hybrid. Fuel economy, leather seats and moonroof are most important factors for us!
Must haves! Thanks for watching!
Moonroof is still an option for Limited too.
@@mertersun In Canada, it's standard on the limited trim
@@mertersun you’re correct, it’s an option on an all models
not in canada. moon roof is not optional or add ons in XLE and bench seat is not an option for limited@@MOHAWKAUTO
Also, the limited includes kick operated lift gate.
The Sequoia did not die. It just changed it's named to Grand Highlander.
I would get the limited without sunroof, which is possible, I love the technology upgrade and entertainment system
Technology upgrade makes a big difference
I think the MPG drop in Limited and Platinum have to do with 20 inch wheels.
Makes sense, thank you for the comment!
I would go with the Platinum, because I really like having a heads-up display.
I use the heads up display on my truck more than I would have thought. So I can understand choosing the platinum package.
I'm driving a 2019 KIA K900 and now I'm so use to a HUD, and it's a major want for our next vehicle @@MOHAWKAUTO
You can still get the bench seat on the Limited.
Limited and Platinum comes with 20 inches wheels, more bigger, less efficient. I don’t know how to see the actual mpg of that car, I just know to read average mpg, and after 2.000 mine, with same gas engine had 17,6 mpg average.
Great review. The phone charger and arm rest is a concern to me.
Thank you for the comment! Its annoying for sure!
Just purchased xle awd 2024 in canada. Moon roof was not an optional add on 😢
Bummer
What kind of gas mileage have you been averaging with the standard 4 cylinder turbo?
Getting about 19-20 but i drive 90% city. Had it 3 months 1500 miles.
They should have put a V-6 in there. Turbos stress engines out
I can see your point. Thank you for the comment!
The lack of power is the key I don’t like it!!!! Big but less power!!!! I got Toyota highlander 2022 but V6 298 Ho compare now 268 hp
You can thank the government and the CAFE standards, everyone is going smaller turbo engines for lower emissions, youre saving the planet right.
Lower gas mileage on higher trims probably because wheel size
That's very possible.
It’s because awd
Correction: You can get a limited with a bench seat. I have a limited hybrid with a bench seat.
You’re correct. Others have also pointed this out. Toyota’s build comparison tools contains inaccuracies currently.
@MOHAWKAUTO Great video BTW.
@@yawk1683 thank you!
In Canada bench seat is Only on XLE
Got the XLE last month. It was what I really wanted except that I wasn’t able to get the one with sunroof. I wanted to get it before winter and first one available doesn’t have a sunroof. Actually second one from the dealer as I missed the call on the first one and responded to the text 2.5 hours later. So got the next available unit
I’m glad you were able to get one!
I could get a bench seat on Limited trim as well here in United States.
Driving experience? Very different from the highlander - driving experience or....?
Big water,tmp display, traffic assist? Yall need to buy a tesla. Sorry a toyota suv is a simple no frills suv which limits tech on purpose because it causes issues thats it. i just got an XLE with bench seat in coastal creme. Really nice vehicle. Only 2 issues i have are center console is large not allowing leg spread like i enjoy, and second the engine is buzzy and loud since its a turbo 4, it has plenty of pickup but lacks the feel of the 6 cycliner.
lol as if Tesla has a comparable resale value to a Toyota.
the 4 cylinder, even with a stupid turbocharger is awful. we do not care about fuel mileage
I think many consumers care about fuel mileage in today’s economy. However, I do wish they offered different non hybrid engine options like a V6.
@@MOHAWKAUTO
They think is economically??
I don’t think is apply for USA marketing!!! If you got SUV then u need strong HP no matter is GPM
Did you feel the bonnet vibrating/shaking that you can view from inside?
I did not. Everything seemed to properly in place and secure. I’m seeing comments like yours from other viewers that this is an issue with it vibrating. However, if that’s the case, then I would think that it’s simply not been adjusted appropriately. Therefore, it should be easily remedied by having it aligned and adjusting the hood stops.
there is no 2.5 liter turbo as you mention, there is 2.4 liter turbo, 2.5 liter it’s only hybrid model.
You're correct
Turbo mean nothing but hp is not strong
We get our XLE hybrid in 3 weeks, I’m having last minute regrets to not get the limited for the extra bells and whistles, did you feel any regret not getting the limited? Also, I thought online traffic jam assist is not in xle model? Maybe that was an incorrect thing posted online?
You’re correct that the traffic jam assist is not available in XLE. It’s only available in the platinum trim. Although it’s not my personal vehicle, it’s tough for me to not want the XLE because of the bench seat for the second row. If my kids were a little older, I’d be more likely to be okay with captains chairs.
The limited comes bench as well which is my dilemma
@@greatdane1122 that’s good to know and I can understand the dilemma for sure. Knowing I could be a bench on the limited, I would probably opt for the limited as I like having a good sound system and I like leather and heated second row.
We have the limited and wish she had the sunroof 😕
@@vincegutierrez3780 I always go back and forth on the sunroof but I ultimately know I’d want one if it was an available option.
Definitely the XLE. I thought the same thing about that center console stuff. Not a good place for it.
100% Thanks for watching!
That thin clunky aluminum hood bouncing around on the highway really pisses me off.... So does their thin tinny sounding doors when you close them.
I’ve never noticed the hood bouncing around on the few I’ve driven and I’ve never felt like the doors shutting seemed too light. Perhaps it’s just me, but I don’t expect many vehicles to shut with the same level of heavy vault like feel of German cars.
Bench seat comes in limited as well
Thank you for the comment!
I'M GOING WITH THE PLATINUM..I WANT A GOOD SOUND SYSTEM AND I WANT MY MOON ROOF AND I'M KEEPING THE BENCH SEATS
Great choice!
? The Platinum doesn't come with a Bench Seat option (In America)
Agree with all your highlights...
Thank you
Are you finding stock in your area of the GH, sequoia, Land Cruiser? We have nine here in SE Mn. We are now older going to trade in my 2016 TRD Tacoma sport for one of the above. The sedans we aren’t interested in, mainly because of them being low to the ground. A couple items needed would be passenger seat power adjustable, passenger heated seats, a/c temp control for passenger
side , am I going to get the limited if even the platinum models? So far the GH is my pick, unless I can like the other big boys better Lastly, thanks for posting very informative
We have been having stock in our area. I personally would choose the Grand Highlander, although I think the Sequoia looks the best. the lack of storage behind the 3rd row is very important to me so the Sequoia is out. If you're coming from the Tacoma, you'll find the Grand Highlander to be a welcome change in interior comfort and ride quality.
@@MOHAWKAUTO where are you located?
@@MOHAWKAUTO I just read your bio. Ha! Also a veteran , former RE broker, 9 years, retired as a mortgage banker after 30 years. Looks like you’re enjoying cars and sharing.
@@teaglet I recently graduated with a double major in finance and accountancy and I hope to put those to use for my whatever my next job is.
@@MOHAWKAUTO great! double major? Finance ? Opens many doors for you, not tied to one field. My major was Business marketing/administration. I’m in Minnesota.
well if you can get everything you want in an xle, they wouldn’t be able to sell a lot of the higher trims 😂
With both the third row and the middle row folded down, can you fit a 4’ x 8’ sheet of plywood?
I don’t know, but I’d be very surprised if you could. It’s not the size of something like a Suburban.
Does the softex breath like leather?
From what I can tell, yes. I never noticed it feeling overly warm or uncomfortable and it reminded me a lot of leather.
@@MOHAWKAUTO thanks!!
Just wait for Chevy Traverse 2024 Z71 see how they're?? Wow
Have to check that out!
how about the price for this GH?
Did you find in the 2nd row that the seat belt rides high . And cuts into your neck
I haven’t noticed that. Although my height might cause it to not sit as high on my neck.
Good review
Thank you!
Are there lifts for the highlander or grand highlander???
It does appear as though there are some lift kits for the Highlander available. I couldn't find any for the Grand Highlander, but I wouldn't be surprised if the Highlander kits could fit, but haven't been confirmed yet.
You can get a limited with a Bench seat.
Correct
Es verdad que el limeted hybrido el motor hace .ucho ruido el motor de 2.5 gracias amigo
Sí, a veces pueden ser ruidosos. ¡Gracias por el comentario!
Driving dynamics discussion?
We will keep that in mind for the next review! Thank you for the comment!
I’m going back to the Highlander
What is making you switch back to the Highlander?
@@MOHAWKAUTO styling, interior trim. To me the interior trim of a Highlander Limited looks the best. Dash. And screen look sharp. My 2015 Highlander with 111,000 miles drives, feels, and looks like a brand new car. PS, I also had a 2008 Highlander Hybrid. I should have never traded it.
1500 more for a grand it's a no brained and the size alone is totally worth it
175 lb-ft torque in non hybrid max hybrid is really bad...
It is low... Thank you watching!
Correction you are correct the 2.5L hybrid is 175, 310lb-ft at 1700 rpm is actually quite good in the base 2.4L
XLE Hybrid is the best.
Good to hear!
@MOHAWKAUTO I have GH XLE Hybrid...(Around 36.5 mpg so far best avg) does not come with the 360 camera view or ventilated seats. I have softex seats, heated 1rst row seats, integrated dashcam(save on car insurance), captain chairs on second row, panoramic moonroof, etc. In Mississippi we paid 52k whereas Limited runs about 58k+ and platinum runs around 61-63k+... Rare for dealers here to offer MSRP now without HIGH markup. We built ours and have great gas mileage. The XLE Hybrid was less and still has pretty much all the features. Love it! 2 months in and no regrets! I hear pretty much all dealers have halted orders for anything other than platinums until early 2024... at least here and surrounding states. Glad we ordered ours in September!
@@joyg8422 it’s so interesting to hear about what’s going on in other parts of the country. It sounds like you got it at the right time!
There is no x in especially or etcetera.
Does it have a reverse tilt mirrors?
I have a ‘21 Highlander platinum. It has the reverse mirror tilt you can turn on or off. I have 6 cylinder and after 15,000 miles my average mpg I’d 23.7.
I don't believe that the Grand Highlander we tested had reverse tilt mirrors. I couldn't see an option for them either on Toyota's website. However, they do have a Curb View camera angle that seems to have replaced the tilt mirrors and aid in parallel parking and minimizing curbing the wheels.
Diff size wheels, weight
Makes sense. Thanks for commenting!
This suv very disappointing because lack of power!!! 268 Hp 4 cylinder turbo! And the price is overpriced
Thank you for comment!
If you want more power get the Hybrid Max. It has 362 HP and 400 lb -ft torque and tows 5K
@@kevinmchugh870 then how much is it?? Over price man
This is not a review. It’s just you talking about the car. Mediocre. A pure waste of time.
Thank you for the feedback. I do feel like most reviews include talking about the car, but it’s all good.
The cursing "gosh" is evil.
We agree. Full apologies' for offending the masses.