Toyota will use this week’s 2023 Chicago Auto Show to reveal the new Grand Highlander, a three-row SUV that sits between the midsize Highlander and the full-size Sequoia.
The Grand Highlander, unveiled Wednesday, will go on sale later this year as a 2024 model, offering buyers a third row that Toyota says is big enough to comfortably accommodate adults, along with three powertrain options and a host of standard features. The standard Highlander also has three rows of seats.
The Grand Highlander rides on a stretched version of Toyota’s TNGA-K front-wheel-drive platform, which is also used on the Highlander. Buyers will be able to choose between front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Powertrains will include a choice of a 2.4-liter turbo-4, a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid, or a Hybrid Max with 362 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.
The Hybrid Max will come standard with all-wheel drive, and performance estimates include a 6.3-second 0-60 mph time and a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity.
2024 Toyota Highlander
2024 Toyota Highlander
2024 Toyota Highlander
Inside, the Toyota comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Below that are physical controls for frequently used functions, then a configurable storage area that holds a tablet (remove the inner tray), and also houses a wireless charger, two USB ports, and three cupholders. The second and third rows also feature additional cupholders and individual USB ports.
Buyers will be able to choose between seven- and eight-seat configurations. The maximum storage space with the rear seats folded is 98.0 cubic feet.
Toyota will offer the Grand Highlander in XLE, Limited and Platinum grades. Even the base XLE will come with a long list of standard features, including 18-inch wheels, roof rails, heated mirrors, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat (and an 8-way front passenger seat) , power tailgate, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert and auto-dimming mirrors.
2024 Toyota Highlander
Production will take place at Toyota’s plant in Princeton, Indiana. The plant, where Toyota builds the Highlander, is also dedicated to building the three-row Lexus SUV, which is likely to be the Grand Highlander’s twin. Rumors point to the Lexus being called the TX.
Availability and pricing information for the Grand Highlander will be announced this summer.