Toyota Highlander vs Grand Highlander: Which One Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when considering the vast array of options available. If you’re in the market for a spacious, capable, and stylish three-row SUV, the Toyota Highlander vs Grand Highlander comparison is a must. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality and performance, but understanding their key differences can help you make an informed decision.

The Highlander: A Tried and True Classic

The Toyota Highlander has been a staple in the mid-size SUV segment for over two decades, earning a reputation for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. The current generation, introduced in 2020, boasts a refined design, advanced technology, and a spacious interior.

Here’s a glimpse into what makes the Highlander a popular choice:

• Spacious Interior: The Highlander offers ample room for up to eight passengers, with comfortable seating in all three rows. The cargo space is also generous, making it ideal for families and adventurers alike.
• Fuel Efficiency: The Highlander’s powertrain options, including a hybrid variant, deliver impressive fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commutes and long road trips.
• Reliability: Toyota’s reputation for reliability is well-deserved, and the Highlander consistently ranks high in dependability surveys.
• Safety Features: The Highlander comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.

The Grand Highlander: A New Challenger Enters the Arena

The Grand Highlander, introduced in 2023, is Toyota’s newest entry in the three-row SUV segment. It shares some DNA with the Highlander but boasts a larger footprint and a more sophisticated design.

Here’s a closer look at what sets the Grand Highlander apart:

• Even More Space: The Grand Highlander offers even more passenger and cargo space than its smaller sibling, making it a true family hauler. The third row is particularly spacious, accommodating adults comfortably.
• Powerful Engine Options: The Grand Highlander offers a range of powertrain options, including a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, delivering a potent combination of performance and fuel efficiency.
• Enhanced Technology: The Grand Highlander features a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a more advanced driver-assist system, and a premium sound system.
• Bold Styling: The Grand Highlander adopts a bolder, more angular design language, giving it a more commanding presence on the road.

Comparing the Dimensions: Size Matters

The Grand Highlander’s key advantage lies in its larger dimensions. It’s significantly longer and wider than the Highlander, providing more interior space and cargo capacity. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Length: Highlander (194.9 inches) vs Grand Highlander (201.6 inches)
• Width: Highlander (75.2 inches) vs Grand Highlander (77.4 inches)
• Wheelbase: Highlander (112.2 inches) vs Grand Highlander (117.5 inches)
• Cargo Space: Highlander (16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 84.3 cubic feet behind the second row) vs Grand Highlander (16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 97.5 cubic feet behind the second row)

Powertrain Options: Performance and Efficiency

Both the Highlander and Grand Highlander offer a variety of powertrain options, catering to different driving preferences and needs.

Highlander:

• 2.4L 4-cylinder engine: This base engine delivers adequate power for daily driving, generating 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
• 2.5L Hybrid engine: This hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 243 horsepower. It offers exceptional fuel economy.

Grand Highlander:

• 2.5L Hybrid engine: The Grand Highlander’s hybrid powertrain is similar to the Highlander’s, delivering 245 horsepower.
• 2.4L Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine: This engine provides a more powerful driving experience, generating 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.
• 2.5L Plug-in Hybrid engine: This plug-in hybrid powertrain offers the best of both worlds – impressive performance and the ability to run on electricity for a short distance. It delivers 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque.

Comparing the Features: Tech and Comfort

Both the Highlander and Grand Highlander are equipped with a range of features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. However, the Grand Highlander offers a more advanced suite of technology and premium amenities.

Highlander:

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system: The Highlander’s infotainment system is responsive and user-friendly, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
• Toyota Safety Sense 2.5: This suite of driver-assist features includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and more.

Grand Highlander:

• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system: The Grand Highlander features a larger and more sophisticated touchscreen, providing a more immersive multimedia experience.
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0: This upgraded driver-assist system includes enhanced features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane tracing assist.
• Premium Sound System: The Grand Highlander offers an optional premium sound system with multiple speakers, delivering a more immersive audio experience.

Choosing the Right SUV for You: Highlander vs Grand Highlander

Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander boils down to your individual needs and preferences.

Choose the Highlander if:

• You prioritize fuel efficiency and affordability.
• You need a spacious and comfortable SUV, but don’t require the absolute maximum cargo space.
• You prefer a more traditional and familiar design.

Choose the Grand Highlander if:

• You need the most spacious interior and cargo capacity.
• You prioritize performance and driving excitement.
• You value the latest technology and premium features.
• You’re willing to pay a premium for the larger size and added features.

The Verdict: It’s a Close Call

The Toyota Highlander vs Grand Highlander competition is a close one. Both SUVs offer exceptional quality, reliability, and safety features. The Highlander remains a solid choice for those seeking a well-rounded and efficient SUV, while the Grand Highlander appeals to families who need the ultimate in space and luxury.

What You Need to Know

Q: Is the Grand Highlander more expensive than the Highlander?

A: Yes, the Grand Highlander is generally priced higher than the Highlander due to its larger size, more powerful engine options, and additional features.

Q: Which SUV gets better fuel economy?

A: The Highlander’s hybrid powertrain offers the best fuel economy, while the Grand Highlander’s plug-in hybrid variant provides the most efficient option.

Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?

A: Both SUVs are primarily designed for on-road driving. However, the Grand Highlander’s larger size and available all-wheel drive system could provide a slight advantage in mild off-road conditions.

Q: Which SUV is better for families?

A: Both SUVs are excellent family vehicles, but the Grand Highlander offers more passenger and cargo space, making it a better choice for larger families or those who frequently need to haul gear.