Is The Hybrid Max Worth It? Driving All 3 2024 Grand Highlander Powertrains

[@jsfbay1]

I'd get the Hybrid Max except that Toyota won't sell me one with a 2nd-row bench seat. With 3 kids, I want them all in the 2nd row, giving us plenty of room for all our cargo with the 3rd row folded down on road trips. I know Toyota/Lexus is not alone in doing this, but I just have to ask - WHY? Make it an option for goodness sake.

[@TRDJon]

The batteries sit there so it isn't possible for a full 3rd row.

[@andrewsworkshop]

I agree 1000%. I want the bench too with the Hybrid Max... Maybe they'll offer it for the 2025 model.

[@paulneil7321]

Agree with you, I was disappointed when I saw that HybridMax does not have bench seat option. Motormouth said they talked to Toyota engineer and they have told it is to reduce the weight to improve the towing and platinum version has many heavy components.

[@andrewsworkshop]

@@paulneil7321 Good to know. It's also gonna reduce the number of people who buy a hybrid max.

[@andrewsworkshop]

@@TRDJon Yay! That was my theory!

[@stevearita3267]

Great comparison review, and very informative. Thank you for doing this video. I agree the standard hybrid is hard to beat for it's gas mileage.

[@TheUMIA]

Just left a dealership now. Hybrid Max Limited $60K + $2k dealer markup. 6-8 month wait.

[@TRDJon]

oooof. Where?

[@TheUMIA]

@@TRDJon Green Bay.

[@SG-js2qn]

I appreciate the direction of this review. I was breaking it down the same way, just on the numbers, but the question always was to what degree do you really need the hybrid max over the regular hybrid? It sounds like if you live in hilly terrain and are frequently hauling a lot of weight, you may prefer the max, but if you're mostly on flat surfaces and not hauling weight, the regular hybrid should be perfectly fine.

[@TRDJon]

For sure. or if you live at altitude then a turbo powertrain may be worth it.

[@Baasicstuff]

I wanted a reliable replacement for my 2014 Honda Pilot, the 4 turbo fit the bill, the MAX was 5-6 k more up here...RIDICULOUS! .thats a TOY that I don't need, it would take 20 years to make my cash back in gas money .... $5k at 5% APR ...... 10-20 year comp? that's if it does not give you issues. 2024 Tacomas will get the same motor, Tacomas STOCK weight is 500 LBS more than this Grand Highlander and we also know that the Tacomas will run the same badass 8 speed transmission. They will also have LARGE tire/wheels and other off road gear, pushing weights near 5k. The Hybrid max runs all the same suspension and weights over 700 LBS more than the standard .... thats literally a car full of people. Just some thoughts, BUT with no LEXUS in the class that is worth it.... the MAX may be a copermise if you wish to compete with the Joneses. I have a Focus ST, going fast is a sports car is where its at, I get all that out of my system in the hills behind my house. OWE great review, you speak very clearly, I agree mostly with what he said .... owe the 4 wheel drive handles much better on freeway on ramps than the 2 wheel drive I found

[@klohr311]

should compare sienna to grand highlander even though it may be apple vs orange. it may give people an idea if grand highlander is worth the money vs the van.

[@aeneas116116]

Agree. Both are Fsmily haulers

[@elizabethwonders]

This is so helpful! I didn’t realize there is a 10 mpg difference for the 2.5 to the Max! 🎉👍😊

[@TRDJon]

Glad it was helpful!

[@elizabethwonders]

@@TRDJon Looking at the Platinum Max Hybrid today. I want to feel how it drives. I’m expecting it to be amazing! My real dream is to own the 2020 Land Cruiser Heritage. What’s your dream Toyota? I’m guessing you are still in love with the 4Runner but I could be wrong and it could be the Tundra…wait!…the Sequoia, yeah? Or on the flip Lexus LX600 Ultra Luxury? Thanks for all of your hard work over the years!! 😊😎🎉

[@31emxof]

Gah, I'm so torn between the hybrid and hybrid max. I hear the max is so smooth and engaging to drive, but also that the mpg isn't living up to expectations. On the other hand, I worry the regular hybrid would feel too sluggish. What to do, what to do...

[@DMAX-ed7pq]

Drove both powertrains today. Yes the max has noticeable more torque at lower speeds but the other variations have plenty of power

[@ravensfootball52]

The hybrid mpg is great

[@TRDJon]

Really great

[@Sashalinko]

I have an XLE hybrid reserved coming next week (im in California). Thanks for this video comparison, just reaffirms i made the right choice!

[@TRDJon]

Have fun!

[@danehenderson5480]

Have you received your XLE hybrid yet? How has it been? Is the acceleration good enough?

[@Sashalinko]

Yes, I've had it for about 3 months now. Love the car overall. Acceleration is lacking however. It definitely struggles a bit. I do a lot of city driving so not too much of an issue for me

[@canoeshoe]

Toyota needs to enable the ability to turn off the rear motor on Eco mode for the HybridMax. It should be getting +30mpg!! This is so disappointing getting 21-23mpg on regular driving when i used to get 38mpg on the Rav4 AWD.

[@al151]

It is called Hybrid Max for a reason. If you want efficiency you can get regular Hybrid. Even petrol engine is better on highway than Hybrid Max.

[@canoeshoe]

@@al151 this is a software thing that can be programmed to turn on/off the rear motor that is on all the time. it's not that necessary. Not to mention the rear motor actually is likely causing the transmission clunking sound on the Hybridmax powertrain and other lexus variants using the same setup

[@kevlew70]

Have a hybrid xle on order, theyre telling me its still over a year wait on these. May go with just the regular turbo motor. They said theyre only making the hybrid at 1/3 the rate as normal turbo engine even though the demand is 3 to 1 hybrid its too bad. What would you do? Wait for the hybrid or take the regular turbo? This is Longo in socal.

[@savchuktaras]

Wow crazy

[@imstelios]

John, do they "float" on the hwy? My 2020 Platinum Hybrid has always given a weird feeling ride, up/down, left/right, but real "floaty" feeling........anyone else?

[@TRDJon]

I mean, it's not planted like a sports car. It has a soft ride to it and kinda does float.

[@chrisjmiller6]

My wife's 21 Limited definitely floats at higher speeds. The V6 is awesome, but it could definitely feel more planted

[@imstelios]

@@TRDJon I almost need a Dramamine lol

[@imstelios]

@@TRDJon Here’s a little skinny you may want to discuss with your dealer/subscribers etc. My wife calls, she has a flat, AAA shows up, Ma’am you better get all your tires checked they’re all bad. 2020 platinum hybrid, summer of 2022 she only had 14,000 miles and all the tires were almost bald. Bridgestones, I find out OEM tires on new vehicles are not warrantied by the MFG. No reason for a $300 tire (each) should wear out at 14K miles but they were all bad. My dealer (it took a lot of him hawing and time) wound up changing them with the only cost to me was travel and time. These tire MFR. don’t let the tire cure properly and Bridgestone would not warranty even though I followed their process and had the tires/car inspected at a Firestone store per their instructions. So for me Bridgestone/Firestone are not in my tire line-up.

[@dt5656]

Jon how does driving the 18 inch wheels feel compared to the 20 inch models?

[@leahj9564]

My chice is also same as you. 2.4 T basic model.

[@alexsmba]

Kind of annoying you can’t get the 8 seater with the Hybrid Max. That’s the engine to get, especially for towing. If not towing, I think the regular hybrid would be fine. With the Lexus it’s even worse. 6 seats with the good engine. Might as well get a pickup!

[@andrewsworkshop]

Yup! So lame.

[@paulneil7321]

Toyota still missing a spacious 8 seater after 10+ SUVs

[@everydayfun9531]

Tbh I'd rather be getting a Tundra now as a Pickup truck and a Hauler man they F up so Badly both lexus and toyota you have the V6 plug in on lexus TX but 6 Seating but you have a 7 seater on the hybrid Max power train but it's a 4 cylinder Turbo and Reliability is a concern for Me...

[@tigerbiterhater]

We gonna be fighting each other at the dealership for a GH. 😂😅. Family v Family.

[@jaykoshy2817]

So for the people who have bought regular hybrids do they feel sufficient for hauling a fully loaded vehicle, accelerating and passing on highways? I’m trying g to decide which one to get so I would really appreciate your thoughts.

[@dt5656]

Jon. How does driving the 18 inch wheels differ from driving the 20 inch wheel models?

[@TRDJon]

TBH couldn't really tell a difference.

[@chowchow3335]

JON, thank you for the reviews. Do you still think 2.5 hybrid is enough power with 4 adults and 2 kiddos onboard?

[@TRDJon]

MPG may go down a little, but I think it would be ok. I may rean more toward the hybrid max at that point with more adults.

[@jsfbay1]

I just sat in the 2023 Pilot and the Grand Highlander yesterday and was stunned at just how tight the 2nd-row leg room was for me sitting behind myself with the driver's' seat set comfortably for me. The Pilot actually had a more comfortable (WRT legroom) 2nd row fit for me, something I absolutely was NOT expecting. And same with the 3rd row - I fit in both, but was more comfortable in the Pilot. Well, as comfortable as someone 6' 1" could be in the mid-size SUV's 3rd row, lol!

[@kevngu7256]

Why would they put fake sound in a family car?

[@ibrahimbashir6634]

Y not ??

[@danguelph2676]

isn't where fake sound belong to, in a family car? where else?

[@kevngu7256]

@@danguelph2676 sport car , where people that byu them like that kinda show

[@KramTurbine]

Must. Wait. For. Land Cruiser. 😆

[@andrewsworkshop]

Yeah, if you're $uper loaded.

[@danguelph2676]

there's no LC in US market.

[@KramTurbine]

@@danguelph2676 kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKSXYnyDe92Vi7c

[@TylerFoster3810]

Hello, TRD John I think you should buy one in the future 😅

[@TRDJon]

Yea??? I think you may be right.

[@CHATO629]

Do You Think they will come out with Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid XSE? The Sporty Version of the Highlander.

[@davidhouston7812]

My 2 cents. Doubtful. Especially since they specifically put the hybrid Max engine in a particular model.

[@TRDJon]

I think so in a year or two.

[@Francis.Rivers]

@@TRDJoni was gonna ask the same question. I currently have a rav4 xse. And i love the looks of it. I hope they come out with an XSE version.

[@cpftank09]

I wonder why all models doing have the dark headliner and upper trim? I think the light colored headliner just feels a little economy grade. Plus it stains so easy!

[@TRDJon]

The XLE with the light head liners are the lowest trim.

[@2018tundra]

Hybrid max for me

[@jjakkad]

Yep great take

[@TRDJon]

Thanks hope you enjoyed!

[@indaydongtv5139]

I saw from the dealer they sell for 68k hybrid limited lol

[@jonkrispeterson6678]

That is too bad. I have a loaded limited coming with about $2300 in options I wouldn’t normally get. Puddle lamps, lighted kick plates etc. sticker is under $57k, and that is my price.

[@indaydongtv5139]

Real bad!the name of dealership is Lithia Toyota of odessa (Odessa texas)

[@andrewsworkshop]

@@indaydongtv5139 What a mad rip. They're trying to take advantage. You can look up typical markups by dealership.

[@Joalse]

I predict that Toyota will have a v6 option for the grand highlander in the future. They know why they gave the Lexus version a v6. It’s too heavy for a 4 cylinder

[@TRDJon]

It's a prime version for that lexus. and I agree, it will come to the Toyota soon.

[@akvkng]

hoped you stopped and got a lobster pot pie at the seafood bar and grill!

[@tslah]

Hey Jon, one question. If hybrid Max is the same price as 2.5L hybrid , would you still choose 2.5L hybrid?

[@TRDJon]

I would probably just do to how good the MPG is

[@timgriffith2995]

Great comparison, thank you!

[@TRDJon]

Thanks for watching!

[@embodythejotun]

Why would someone shorter want the seat lower? As someone who is 6ft, whenever I get in a car after a short person they always have it jacked way up to see over the dash and I always have to lower Toyota seats all the way down otherwise I'm way too high/hair touching the roof.

[@TRDJon]

Leg position. It's very tall to reach the pedals.

[@andrewsworkshop]

My guess is their short legs have trouble reaching the pedals.

[@embodythejotun]

​@@TRDJonoooh that makes sense, thanks!

[@TheTruthCalls]

@@TRDJon Actually, that doesn't really make sense to me. I've always found short people will raise the seat and then move it forward to reach the pedals. If you lower the seat and your short you can't see over the dash. At least that's what they tell me... I'm not short.

[@paulneil7321]

Why is Toyota not putting 310 Pound-feet torque for Hybrid model on their website or in specs?

[@okie1991]

I am wondering this also, Motortrend says 175lb-ft of torque.

[@danguelph2676]

because they are not telling the real torque numbers. no one knows for sure. because you can't just add gas engine and electric motor numbers together for torque. they have different curves and there is no single number that can be put on specs. That's why.

[@travisheath1085]

@@danguelph2676 That's not why. Torque output of an electric motor is just as measurable as it is for an ICE. They have many other models listed with correct power outputs that use electric and ICE power in concert.

[@yoshigolfer1512]

Bro, highway mileage on this hybrid is rated 32 not 36 😊

[@gestebu]

I don't know, man. I don't know. Why did we get a dashboard view only for the Hybrid MAX drive? Boring... Where's the scenery? Otherwise, nice overall comparison.

[@EdwardTeatch]

Why does nobody report acceleration with four adults inside? I bet it will do better without a driver.

[@TRDJon]

How will it do better without a driver? It wouldn't drive

[@Martyvison]

Most dope! Wherever life takes me find me with a smile 😊

[@DrunkenSinner]

I’m loving the GH! But I do have a question on the 2 lower powertrains. I’m in Vegas, and do quite a bit of road trips (CA, UT, AZ, etc), which has a lot of elevation changes and grades. Add that to the insane heat, and my current SUV tends to be under powered and actually comes close to overheating a few times. Obviously, powers a concern. How do you think the lower trains would handle these conditions? Right now I’m leaning towards the HybridMax for these reasons, but that is quite the price jump too.

[@TRDJon]

I think its fine. It's not that crazy of elevation change to really affect the NA hybrid. It will do fine in the heat too. Our hybrid did great in Florida.

[@DrunkenSinner]

@@TRDJon thank you sir, appreciate the insight as always!

[@andrewsworkshop]

I'm on the same boat-wanting to drive in the mountains/on road trips, and not having faith in the regular hybrid, though I currently have a 2019 Rav4 Hybrid and it does very very well on road trips and mountain driving, including rough, washed-out terrain (on a recent trip). If only we could rent the hybrid GH for a couple days to try it in the mountains (with a car full of people and belongings)

[@DrunkenSinner]

I would love that! Might be a while before we see some GHs available at rental car places sadly.

[@socal_gambler]

I also have the same question. I want the 2.5 hybrid because of fuel efficiency. But wonder if it can handle the long hill climb to vegas from cali with 5 ppl and luggage.

[@imstelios]

So your #1 pick is the 2.5, Hybrid XLE or Hybrid Limited. Are you comfortable with those having electronic variable transmission control vs. the 6 speed of the Hybrid Max Limited, HMPlatinum, or the 8 speed on the XLE, Limited, Platinum?

[@TRDJon]

I'd prpbably go limited just for a few more features. Yes the ECVT from Toyota is very good.

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

Just go base model, higher trims are money printers for manufacturs and you get stuff you just don't need.

[@dt5656]

Do you think the xle 2.5l hybrid ha la enough power to pull a teardrop trailer and a truck full of camping gear? Thinking of weeks long camping trip

[@TRDJon]

Depends on weight of the camper. I think the 2.5 only has a 3500 lbs tow rating.

[@DavidDeWitt-e7g]

so pumped for my limited hybrid silver with the blacked out package! (i did not choose that, it chose me, but it looks sweet anyways)

[@EdwardGomez-u8e]

Does it have max too

[@EdwardGomez-u8e]

If yes what is the size and output of the battery

[@kevinousdigian]

Jon: Great review! I'm 6'0" and the regular highlander lumbar support hits me too low - near waist instead where the back is arched which is up a little bit. Did you try the lumbar support and where did the bulge hit your back?

[@thyroidnodule]

Would you mind sharing the experience of sitting in the 2nd row captain seat? I sat in the captain seat and felt that are very uncomfortable compared bench seat. I really love the Hybrid rmax but without the bench seat option is a real deal breaker for me

[@TRDJon]

It was fine. Just another seat to me

[@tinhinnh]

could you mount the forward facing camera lower? we cant see the road

[@TRDJon]

Only that way for one of the 3 I feel. But will do better with future drives.

[@danguelph2676]

it's not road review. it's a car review. you need to see a car. if you want scenery reviews go elsewhere.

[@tinhinnh]

@@danguelph2676 wth is a car review is not a road review 😂

[@jsfbay1]

Were you able to find a way to defeat the fake engine noise? I hate it when manufacturers do that! What a dumb trend.

[@TRDJon]

No switch for it, but I did suggest to them to make it a toggle if possible.

[@chrisinsocalif]

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requires these vehicles to emit sounds ranging from 43 to 64 decibels when they are moving at less than 18.6 mph. If I remember correctly it was only for cars that have an electric only mode. So I don't know why it would be in the Grand Highlander.

[@jsfbay1]

@@chrisinsocalif I was speaking of fake engine noise piped through the stereo system. I think you're talking about the sound that a vehicle operating in all electric mode has to make *outside* the car to alert unsuspecting pedestrians. I think. 🙂

[@danguelph2676]

@@jsfbay1 just keep stereo off.

[@jsfbay1]

@@danguelph2676 I thought about that but wondered if they were able to bypass the stereo and pump in engine sound anyway. I assume for example that turning up the volume of a tune on the stereo doesn't make the engine sound louder? Or maybe it does to maintain a balance. Regardless, good suggestion.

[@edswrld]

Jon, Would you compare explorer st to hybrid max ? Or apples and oranges to you?

[@TRDJon]

ST is a bit more sporty I bet in terms of suspension too.

[@ryanmedes9417]

Do you think the hybrid max is what we’ll get in the new “Land Cruiser”/Prado?

[@TRDJon]

I hope not.

[@TheIronCruz]

Dear Jon - don't mix CVT and e-CVT. it's different constructions and technic. E-CVT is great and FTW.

[@TRDJon]

Thanks.

[@nahiduzzaman574]

Okay, I'm curious, why all of the reviews of Grand Highlander is in Hawaii? Are they only available to drive in Hawaii right now?

[@TRDJon]

That’s were the drive event was for us.

[@nahiduzzaman574]

@@TRDJon thanks for clearing

[@thebeddoctor4273]

Being short wouldn't you want the seat higher up so you can see? My wife is 5 2 and she has to raise the seat not lower it.

[@TRDJon]

I feel it would be hard to reach the pedals

[@thebeddoctor4273]

@TRDJon oh ya that makes sense

[@BhavinPatel-m4f]

did you say 310 Lb Feet torque for Hybrid ?

[@tonycapil1022]

I believe it is 177lb ft. I'd get the gas if that is true for around the same price.

[@alejofox10]

You can’t get the Platinum without the imax engine.

[@mp-sv2cp]

44K is good, but dealers all over are marking them up $10k+ so they are in the mid 50ks.. no thanks, I'll still to the pilot 24 elite at 51k.

[@TRDJon]

Don't pay a markup.,

[@yuriy797]

What kind of petrol does it run on?

[@TRDJon]

Regular

[@yuriy797]

@@TRDJon I understand you correctly that Toyota Hybrid Grand Highlander Max 362 hp consumes regular gasoline?

[@TRDJon]

Correct

[@yuriy797]

@@TRDJon 👍👍👍

[@bakakallu411]

I will buy 3rd generation when they fix most of the issues

[@sheikhmdshafiqurrahman1062]

4.12 minute; what's the vehicle? brand and model please?

[@TRDJon]

The whole video is about the grand Highlander

[@danguelph2676]

Grand Highlander! Can't you read the topic name of video??

[@dcrespol]

If you are shorter, you want to sit higher, not lower 🤔 (6:40)

[@TRDJon]

Harder to reach pedals

[@dcrespol]

@@TRDJon good point, thanks!

[@jeffo.31]

wouldnt a smaller person want the seat higher????

[@TRDJon]

Not if it’s hard to reach the peddles

[@Smitty_76]

Personally I'm not a fan of any hybrid. I keep vehicles too long and a hybrid depreciates too much long term. IMO. Good review though.

[@debbiebaran8368]

why do you say hybrids don't hold their value long term? You'd think they would over a non hybrid.

[@Smitty_76]

@@debbiebaran8368 because changing the battery is not cost effective on most hybrid vehicles. Once they reach their lifespan people buy a new car and no one wants to buy a hybrid that needs a battery replaced. A Toyota Highlander hybrid battery replacemnet costs over $6K.

[@andrewsworkshop]

@@Smitty_76 😲

[@debbiebaran8368]

@@Smitty_76 thanks. you make a good point.

[@maisondav1d]

On the flip side, the engine and transmission haven't worked as hard as a non hybrid and would probably be in better shape 10+ years down the road. 10 years from now don't you think battery tech goes up and prices would go down? Also if you replaced the battery and kept car in good condition, I'm sure you'd be able to put that 6k on top of your price and still sell it

[@jeffreynickel6661]

Look at that hood flutter! C-mon Toyota.

[@IowaHiker]

Love your videos. Toyota couldn't do any better with those ugly seats? I mean yeah it's base but my goodness I don't think I have seen interior seats look so bad!

[@TRDJon]

Thanks!

[@andrewsworkshop]

You don't see them while you're sitting on them. It's a personal taste thing.

[@johnwilson4336]

The max is a joke if I want more power I’ll get a bigger motor. If I want a fully loaded with good mpg I can’t

[@danguelph2676]

Max IS more power lol. Why get bigger motor when Max is exactly for that? Also, Max is fully loaded. And you CAN get good mpg hybrid fully loaded. you make no sense.

[@ishanr5153]

Cx90❤

[@HULK515]

2023 Honda Pilot V6 much better than that 4 Cylinder SUV

[@TheUMIA]

Are they the same size inside? Spacious 3rd row? No.

[@danguelph2676]

No it's much worse. Hybrid 2.5L 4-cylinder will last twice as long. because it operates in ideal rpm range due to hybrid! You seem to not know much. But I teach you.

[@HULK515]

Better is V6 Naturally Aspirated Motor last twice as longer what a waist engine works twice as hard with turbo any Mechanic knows that.

[@danguelph2676]

I'm a mechanic and I can teach you that you are wrong. Hybrid 2.5L engine lasts longer than any V6 because hybrids always work in ideal rpm range - hence much less load than V6.

[@everydayfun9531]

​@danguelph2676 hey I have a Question if you don't mind me asking im looking For a grand highlander with the Hybrid Max Powertrain system since it's gonna be a Family car and will also be used for towing so my question to you as a mechanic is will there by any reliability issues or wear and Tear Problems if you use it to haul Some Heavy items??

[@yzlrelax1]

CVT trans? You don’t know what you are talking about

[@TRDJon]

Cool. Then you review the car and let us know all the details

[@femacampetiquettefordummie6979]

Those front seats look hideous. Shaped on the top like they weren't made for humans. WTH!!

[@nonconsensualopinion]

9:50 - Bingo! I don't want a loud engine in my car. They need to stop that BS fake engine noise.

[@31415926535equalspi]

I appreciate vid. Please stop using the totem pole metaphor : “Low man on the totem pole: Totem poles are monuments created by the First Nations of the Pacific Northwest to represent and commemorate ancestry, histories, people, or events. The term “low man on the totem pole,” when used as an idiom to describe a person of low rank, inaccurately trivializes the tradition and meaning of the totem poles, which do not have a hierarchy of carvings based on physical position. Consciously replace this turn of phrase with - Person of lower rank, junior-level.”

[@TRDJon]

Well it is a lower grade car, lower price, lower on the totem pole. So I'll keep saying it.