Toyota Grand Highlander



 What Is the Toyota Grand Highlander?

          The Toyota Grand Highlander is a large three-row SUV that slots above the standard Highlander in Toyota’s SUV lineup. Designed for families and drivers needing abundant space, comfort, modern tech, and Toyota reliability, the Grand Highlander expands on the Highlander’s popularity with a bigger body, more seating capacity, and premium features while keeping Toyota’s reputation for durability. 

Introduced globally in the mid-2020s, the Grand Highlander is aimed at markets like North America, the Middle East, and select other countries. It appeals to buyers who want a full-size SUV experience without stepping into luxury brand pricing. 

 Engine, Performance & Powertrains:



       One of the Grand Highlander’s defining strengths is the flexibility in powertrain options, combining traditional petrol power with advanced hybrid technology:

🔹 Engine Options:

2.4-liter Turbo Petrol – Delivers around 265-266 horsepower and about 420 Nm of torque. 

Hybrid Option (2.5 L) – Offers a combined output around 245 hp with improved fuel economy and lower emissions. 

Hybrid Max (2.4 L Turbo Hybrid) – Produces up to ~362 hp, offering most performance while remaining efficient. 

 Driving & Efficiency:

Transmission: Automatic across the board, with smooth shifting and refined throttle response. 

Fuel Economy: Petrol engines typically return around 9–11 km/l, while hybrids achieve better real-world fuel economy. 

Drivetrain Choices: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) options depending on region and trim. 

These varied powertrains mean the Grand Highlander can be tuned for comfort and efficiency on daily commutes or power and towing capability for family trips.

 Exterior Design & Dimensions:

The Grand Highlander is larger than the standard Highlander, offering a commanding road presence with bold SUV proportions:

Length: ~5116 mm

Width: ~1989 mm

Height: ~1781 mm

Ground Clearance: ~210 mm

Seating Capacity: Up to 8 passengers comfortably. 

These dimensions translate to usable third-row seating and generous cargo space — vital for large families and long road journeys.

 Interior & Comfort Features:

      



   Inside, the Grand Highlander emphasizes family-friendly comfort, premium materials, and tech-forward experiences:

🔹 Seating & Space:

Three rows capable of seating up to 8 people, providing generous legroom and headroom. 

Flexible rear seating and cargo configurations make it practical for trips, groceries, and gear.

🔹 Technology:

Large multimedia displays and Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance suite. 

Some trims include wireless charging, JBL audio systems, panoramic sunroofs, and multi-zone climate control. 

🔹 Convenience

Multiple USB ports and cup holders for all rows. 

The interior is designed to be functional and comfortable, though some reviewers note that materials in certain areas feel less premium than expected for the price (more on that below). 

 Global Pricing & Market Availability:

The Grand Highlander’s price varies significantly by region, trim level, and optional packages:

Middle East:

In the UAE, prices range from about AED 156,900 to AED 181,900 for the 2026 models, depending on the trim. 

 Saudi Arabia:

Earlier model years (e.g., 2024/2025) were reported starting around SAR 153,000, rising to above SAR 210,000 for higher trims or hybrid variants. 

 United States:

According to reviews, U.S. prices for the Grand Highlander start in the low-to-mid $40,000s for entry trims and can exceed $55,000–$60,000 for fully loaded hybrid max trims.

These variations reflect local taxes, import costs, specs, and equipment differences in each market.

 Top Features & Highlights

Here’s a breakdown of what owners and reviewers consistently praise:

 Performance & Utility:

Strong hybrid options blend performance with economy. 

Comfortable ride quality suitable for long trips and city driving. 

Spaciousness

Ample room for eight, with flexible seating and storage. 

Safety Technology

Standard suite includes adaptive cruise, lane assist, blind-spot monitoring, and more. 

 Tech & Practicality

Multiple USB ports, smartphone integration, and family-oriented features. 

 Cons & Criticisms:

No vehicle is perfect. Here are the main criticisms from owners and experts:

 Quality and Materials

Some owners feel interior materials are not as premium as competitors at the same price point. 

Infotainment & Features

Infotainment systems are sometimes described as slow or basic compared to rivals. 

 Fuel Economy Reality

Non-hybrid petrol versions can feel thirsty, especially in city traffic. 

Size & Maneuverability

Its large size may be challenging in tight urban environments or parking. 

 Safety Notices:

There was a past recall for curtain airbag deployment issues in some U.S. models — being addressed by Toyota. 

 How the Grand Highlander Compares:



The Grand Highlander competes with mid-to-large SUVs like:

Kia Telluride

Hyundai Palisade

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Compared to these rivals, the Grand Highlander often excels in reliability, resale value, and hybrid efficiency but can lag in perceived interior luxury and cutting-edge tech.

 Conclusion:



The Toyota Grand Highlander is a solid choice for families, daily commuters, and road-trip enthusiasts who want the blend of space, technology, comfort, and reliability Toyota is known for — without entering the luxury SUV price stratosphere. Its hybrid options make it especially competitive for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and lower running costs.

However, potential buyers should balance the price vs. interior refinement trade-offs and the size considerations if they drive frequently in tight urban settings.

Whether you’re comparing SUVs for your next family car or looking for a long-term investment vehicle, the Grand Highlander deserves serious consideration — particularly if reliability and comfort are at the top of your list.


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