Toyota Highlander vs Toyota Grand Highlander, Toyota SUV for Your Family, Toyota Highlander, Toyota Grand Highlander
When it comes to family-friendly SUVs, Toyota offers two compelling options: the Highlander and the Grand Highlander. Both vehicles boast impressive features, but how do they stack up against each other? Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Overview of the Toyota Highlander
Toyota Highlander vs Toyota Grand Highlander, The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size crossover SUV that has been a staple in Toyota’s lineup since 2000. Known for its reliability and versatility, the Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers and a range of modern amenities. Wikipedia
Introducing the Toyota Grand Highlander
The Grand Highlander, introduced in 2023, is a larger alternative to the standard Highlander. Sharing the same GA-K platform, the Grand Highlander features distinct exterior and interior styling, offering more space and comfort for larger families. Wikipedia
Price Comparison
- Highlander: Starting at $39,520, with the Platinum trim beginning at $51,925.
- Grand Highlander: Starting at $40,860, with the Platinum trim starting at $54,045.
While the Grand Highlander is slightly more expensive, the additional space and features may justify the cost for some buyers.
Reliability Ratings
- Highlander: Predicted reliability rating of 81 out of 100, considered “Great” by J.D. Power standards.
- Grand Highlander: Quality and reliability score of 76 out of 100, categorized as “Average.”
Both models come with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Comparison Between Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander
| Feature | Toyota Highlander | Toyota Grand Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $36,000 (Base Trim) | $40,000 (Base Trim) |
| Engine Options | 2.4L Turbo 4-cylinder; 2.5L Hybrid | 2.4L Turbo 4-cylinder; 2.4L Hybrid Max |
| Horsepower | 265 hp (Turbo); 243 hp (Hybrid) | 362 hp (Hybrid Max); 265 hp (Turbo) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD | FWD or AWD |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 8 |
| Cargo Space | 16 cu. ft. (behind third row) | 20.6 cu. ft. (behind third row) |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (Turbo) | 5,000 lbs (Turbo); 5,500 lbs (Hybrid Max) |
| Fuel Economy | 24 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (Turbo) | 22 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (Hybrid Max) |
| Hybrid Fuel Economy | 36 mpg city / 35 mpg highway | 34 mpg city / 33 mpg highway |
| Technology Features | 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless CarPlay, Android Auto | 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless CarPlay, Android Auto, available heads-up display |
| Safety Features | Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 |
| Interior Materials | SofTex or leather upholstery options | Premium SofTex or leather options |
| Third-Row Comfort | Tight legroom, suitable for children | Improved legroom, adult-friendly |
| Target Audience | Families needing a reliable midsize SUV | Families needing more space and power |
| Notable Advantages | Lower starting price, better hybrid efficiency | Larger cargo space, more powerful engine options |
This comparison provides a side-by-side overview of key features, making it easier to decide between the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander based on your priorities.
Interior Comfort and Space
- Highlander: Seats up to eight with standard cloth upholstery. The third row may be tight for adults due to limited legroom.
- Grand Highlander: Also seats up to eight but offers more spacious seating, especially in the third row, making it more comfortable for adults. Standard features include synthetic leather upholstery and heated front seats.
Cargo Capacity
- Highlander:
- 16 cubic feet behind the third row
- 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded
- 84.3 cubic feet with both rear rows folded
- Grand Highlander:
- 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row
- 57.9 cubic feet with the third row folded
- 97.5 cubic feet with both rows folded
The Grand Highlander’s larger dimensions provide more cargo space, accommodating larger loads with ease.
Interior Quality
Both SUVs feature well-constructed cabins with quality materials. Higher trims offer additional amenities like sunshades for rear passengers. However, compared to rivals, both models’ interior quality is considered average.
Technology and Features
- Highlander: Comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and five USB ports. Optional features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system.
- Grand Highlander: Standard features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, seven USB ports, and wireless device charging.
The Grand Highlander offers more advanced standard features, enhancing the in-car experience.
Performance and Acceleration
Both models are equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 265 horsepower. However, due to its larger size, the Grand Highlander may feel slightly less responsive compared to the smaller Highlander.
Fuel Efficiency
- Highlander:
- 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (FWD)
- 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (AWD)
- Grand Highlander:
- 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (FWD)
- 20 mpg city / 26-27 mpg highway (AWD)
The Highlander offers marginally better fuel economy, which could be a consideration for daily commuters.
Ride and Handling
Both SUVs provide a comfortable ride with well-tuned suspensions that absorb road imperfections effectively. All-wheel drive is optional for both models, enhancing traction in various driving conditions.
Safety Features
Both models come equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense™ suite, though there are slight differences:
- Highlander: Features Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and more.
- Grand Highlander: Comes with Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0, which includes all features of 2.5+ plus Proactive Driving Assist.
Towing Capacity
When properly equipped, both the Highlander and Grand Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds, suitable for small trailers or boats.
Dimensions and Size
- Highlander:
- Length: Approximately 194.9-197.4 inches
- Width: 76.0 inches
- Height: Varies by trim
- Grand Highlander:
- Length: 201.4 inches
- Width: 78.3 inches
- Height: Taller than the Highlander
The Grand Highlander’s larger dimensions translate to more interior space and cargo capacity.
Trim Levels and Options
- Highlander: Available in multiple trims, including LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. Hybrid versions are also available.
- Grand Highlander: Offered in trims like XLE, Limited, and Platinum, with both standard and hybrid powertrains.
Conclusion
Toyota Highlander vs Toyota Grand Highlander, Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander depends on your specific needs:
- Choose the Highlander if:
- You prefer slightly better fuel efficiency.
- You have a smaller budget.
- You don’t require extensive cargo space.
- Choose the Grand Highlander if:
- You need more interior and cargo space.
- You desire more advanced standard features.
- You frequently travel with adults in the third row.
Both SUVs uphold Toyota’s reputation for reliability and safety, ensuring a dependable choice for your family.
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