GRAND HIGHLANDER IS BETTER THAN THESE 3-ROW SUV FROM TOYOTA, INCLUDING 4RUNNER, SEQUOIA & HIGHLANDER

[@Whatsertoe]

As a senior citizen, I’ve driven a lot of cars in my lifetime. I’ve had my Grand Highlander for 7 weeks now, and there is nothing I don’t love about it. Definitely, my all-time favorite car. (I got the Limited, all gas, second row captains chairs.)

[@wyomingar]

why does a senior citizen need a big ass car like this one? for you to drive 20mph on a freeway?

[@jrd5403]

@@wyomingarbecause he can

[@douglaspeebles9928]

To carry all his Grandkids😊

[@wyomingar]

@@jrd5403 yeah he can also run a red light without looking and T-bone you because he can

[@francisrivers1111]

@@wyomingargrandkids

[@ernst6287]

THANK YOU VERY MUCH. I bought mine 50 days ago, I was complaining about the noisy engine, thinking there was something wrong with it. After watching your video, now my love for this car goes from 99% to 100%. I used to drive a 2011 Highlander, I tried the 2015, the 2022 one, but this model, the GRAND Highlander, is really impressive. The suspension is completely different, beside the interior design, the comfort, the features on this SUV (even on the base model) are mind-blowing. Sensors on every seatbelt, USB-C port everywhere for the kids' electronics. The center console makes me feel like a jet pilot, with all the buttons switch under my palm. And believe it or not, this engine is so powerful associated with the comfortability that on the highway, more than once, I realized I was going more than 25 miles over the speed limit, after passing all the other cars and I know I'm not a speedy driver. This car is just flying. Every traffic sign on the road shows up on the dashboard, pedestrians' crosswalk, sensors everywhere, lane change assistance, brake assistance (at any sudden obstacle on the way, the car slows down itself). Last week my daughter, opened her door to get out, and I heard "watch for moving vehicle" and I said "wait", then we saw that cyclist who was less than 10 feet away, passing next to us. I have the XLE model, I can't imagine the PLATINUM package.

[@b1dartman]

I have had my Grand Highlander Platinum Hybrid Max for a month now. I took some of my friends on a mini trip and they were very impressed by the great ride and almost limousine quietness and comfort. We took turns driving and I have never had such a unanimous favorable response of a vehicle that I've owned. These guys are all car enthusiasts and are usually very hard to please. I was very surprised by their like for this car. We averaged over 26 mpg on the trip which to me is impressive for the torque and power this vehicle has. Well done Toyota!!

[@Mr.Carter777]

How big is fuel tank?

[@kairu.kun.z]

@@Mr.Carter77717 gallons but it has an issue filling up past 12 or 13 gallons unless you feather it in to 15. My biggest complaint but most people don’t care as you just fill up more often. Limited is getting about 500 real world miles (12 gallon fill up) and max is getting around 325 with 12 gallons.

[@rightlanehog3151]

David, After listening to this comprehensive analysis and grand praise for this Grand Highlander, I suspect many owners of ordinary Highlanders are having serious second thoughts about their purchase. I want to offer those people a honourable 'way out'. Anyone who is now too embarrassed to be seen in public with a not-so-grand Highlander can leave it parked outside my house. Just leave the keys and paperwork in my mailbox and I will take care of the rest of the details. 😉😉🤣

[@markmelville6670]

No hybrid for me @@fartman10284

[@brianh5393]

I think the new Honda Pilot is a better vehicle in this segment. It has better seating configurations and a naturally aspirated V6 engine. I expect the Pilot to be more reliable and have a better resale value in the future.

[@EngageYourFrontalLobe]

@@brianh5393 The Honda V6 gets poor gas mileage, which is why we purchased a Toyota Highlander Hybrid instead. All of our friends who own Pilots are considering buying a Highlander Hybrid or Grand Highlander Hybrid (perhaps even the new Lexus TX Hybrid or PHEV.) We have a Toyota Highlander Hybrid & get 22-36 mpg & the vehicle is a V6. It has held its value really well in the few years we have owned it & the eCVT is an engineering marvel! The brake pads are still ‘almost new’, b/c of regenerative braking, etc… Honda Pilot does NOT have a hybrid vs, or even one ‘in the works’. That’s fine if you don’t care about paying at the pump, or the environment. (Toyota has a recycling prgm for hybrid batteries). Also, a Highlander Hybrid is est. to last up to 300K miles, 50K more miles than a Honda Pilot.

[@jamesmiller7733]

​@@brianh5393it has cylinder deactivation so I'd be careful.

[@markmelville6670]

@@brianh5393 I thought the pilots engine/trans was noticeably better than the GH turbo 4 but the seats are terribly uncomfortable, at least for me. Plus the GH is better on cargo space.

[@leandiaz4817]

I love your straight forward reviews. Thanks for a great review. I actually own this 2024 Hybrid Max. There are features that even dealers don't know about. One feature is that the car reminds (with a long sound) that you left your phone inside your car. This SUV is no joke in terms of power especially when going up mountain roads - fully loaded. Hybrid Max runs on Full-Time Electronic All-Wheel Drive (AWD) which gives it an advantage compared to others. Looking forward this winter on how it performs with Nokian HAKKAPELIITTA 10SUV tires.

[@crazyturtle16]

I do love Toyota, I do own 2012 Corolla and 2010 Prius right now. And recently bought a 2024 Grand Highlander Hybrid Limited as a replacement for 2018 Camry Hybrid. I am glad you’ve mentioned built quality like gaps. So here is what mine GHHL has. 1. Hatch closes flush on the left side not on the right side 3,5mm; 2. Rear fender flare gap is more on the left side. top LH side 5,2mm, RH side - 4,2mm. Bottom: LH side - 2.8, RH side - 3,2mm; 3. Gap between the fender and the hood. Top: RH side - 2,3mm, top LH side - 4mm, bottom: RH side - 3,5mm, LH side - 4,5mm 4. And the hood and headlamp is more on the left than on the right. Top: RH side - 3mm, LH side - 4,7mm. Middle: RH side - 3,5mm, LH side - 6mm. Bottom: RH side - 3mm, LH side - 4,5mm. The numbers might not look big on paper but when you actually look at the car - it doesn't look good; 5. Not mentioning that the hood and sides of the vehicle have scratches from the day one, like it went through the auto car wash right at the factory or at dealership.

[@SG-js2qn]

I agree. I think this design is one of the best to come out of Toyota. I'm not sure about the value of the Hybrid Max over the regular hybrid, though. I think the Hybrid Max is actually designed to go with the solid state batteries, and they're using it now as a half step, getting it out in the market as an incremental improvement, and getting it tested in real world conditions, before switching to the solid state batteries. If we had the solid state batteries now, I'd definitely go with the Hybrid Max.

[@joecrash1232]

As from what I have heard, the hybrid max uses the bipolar version of the nickel-metal-hydride battery pack. This is the better version of their old same battery pack, and it can make similar energy density as the lithium ion battery pack while being less fire hazard too.

[@David-jk4ep]

This should be called the grand RAV4. It takes most of his styling cues from it and it looks awesome.

[@MeJonTheDon]

Sequoia should have been a few inches longer and contain a more spread out battery pack to keep the interior space usable

[@brianh5393]

Or forego the battery and have a usable full size SUV

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

3rd row takes up to much space when folded down

[@jamesjacobs592]

I agree!!

[@oshane2012]

I love it but I wish they offered 8 seats in the platinum trims and the infotainment setup should be more different than the normal highlander

[@jwstudio2366]

It is an impressive SUV. I love mine. We took it on a round road trip from MD to FL and was surprisingly very comfortable. However, Toyota has yet to address its software issues. One buyer I know is already in the process of lemon law with less than 500 miles on her GH.

[@tar2185]

She has a horrible dealership. The top Toyota dealerships do as much as they can to avoid giving Toyota a bad name

[@lancethomas8032]

What is the issue?

[@UAkovalchuk]

I bought a grandhighlander xle awd with 2.4 turbo!! No market adjustment!! Im happy with this car

[@Pinkorchid72]

Where did you buy it? I’m in the market for one, too. Will go just about anywhere to save on those horrible markup/adjustments!

[@MrSkeptical]

​@@Pinkorchid72 I very recently purchased a Grand Highlander Limited 2.4 Turbo gas for $2000 off MSRP plus an additional $1000 off when Toyota financed for a total $3000 off of MSRP. This was purchased on Long Island New York. Have had a number of new Toyota's of all types and this vehicle is fantastic so far👍

[@anthonym4930]

I love my 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum in Wind Chill Pearl, even my brother is very much impressed! I love its riding comfort, reputation in terms of realiability, spacious, good fuel efficiency considering its size! ❤

[@nateTrh]

The new turbo 2.4 engine is very impressive. I work at a Toyota dealer and the new engines that Lexus smoothness to it that the 2.5 NA engines were sorely lacking. Lots of torque and 95% of that V6 smoothness is perfect. If it's as reliable as the good old 2gr, then it'll be a top 10 all time Toyota engine for sure.

[@md2k8]

The all-new, 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander HybridMax is now one of my favourite three-row full-size crossovers, which is AWD and it only seats seven passengers.

[@elizabethwhite4606]

David the 3rd row and large cargo area in the Grand Highlander would be great for traveling, and long trips.

[@vonniethomas5198]

Really enjoy my hybrid max! Very quiet, easy to drive, great accelleration. Enjoy all the cargo space for dogs, kids, and stuff.

[@almassengale]

At MSRP this is a good value. Unfortunately everyone around me is advertising it for thousands over which kills the value proposition. Hopefully as the supply goes up that problem goes away.

[@bubba4072]

Thanks, David! This was an excellent presentation of the Grand Highlander. The hybrid version has impressive mpg for such a large vehicle. 👍

[@rolinchoate1888]

I have a gas GH with 8 seating and large pan panoramic sun roof. Only problem is the A/C is undersized for southern hot weather. The head room area is always hot because the Roof insulation is insufficient to stop the greenhouse effect and there are no vents on the dash to direct toward the roof to cool it.

[@j.z1886]

I guess that's why the Century SUV is based on this same platform as Grand Highlander.

[@sokratzmmf]

I bought my wife a Lexus NX and the lack of physical buttons did have me pause, but overall, it's such a great vehicle.

[@DanQuentinJames]

Toyota performed an excellent execution on the Grand Highlander. This model will really fit many customers needs.

[@mbenton6]

Mazda cx90 is better

[@ALMX5DP]

@@mbenton6in terms of what aspect? Maybe for a small family or a primary driver who values driving dynamics but each has pros and cons depending on what the family needs or desires.

[@mbenton6]

​@@ALMX5DPinterior is bland exterior is also bland. It only has space, that's greatervthan the cx90.

[@ALMX5DP]

@@mbenton6 aesthetics are largely subjective, so again pros and cons depending on preference or opinion.

[@markmelville6670]

Yuk.@@mbenton6

[@rkalla]

LOVED the inside knowledge about the assembly plant and the gap analysis - big perk to go with the GH

[@firemanbob1994]

I have a 21’ Sienna XSE. We have no children but 2 seventy pound dogs. The room in the Sienna is going to be hard to beat as we have the super long slide seats there. I would likely need a bench seat in the second row. Our Sienna averages 34 mpg in very hot and humid SWFL. And the power is adequate for a hybrid. I wish Toyota would invest in a nav screen upgrade for the Sienna. I would get a new one. The styling is great too. Can you review a Sienna?

[@sudiphang2690]

From outside maybe looks so good. But for me GH just too pricey for what u get. Same prime mark at $53k between GH limited and Honda Pilot elite. See the interior and you can tell the difference. I’ll definitely go for Honda Pilot.

[@bchowmein1711]

The selling point too for me is the v6 of the pilot vs the 4cyl turbo i have a hard time stomaching even tho i love toyota

[@randysalerno6274]

David, what do you think of the reliability and longevity of the 2.4 l turbo gas engine?

[@francisrivers1111]

Between the cx90 & the GH, id go with the GH. Hybrid in particular. that 30+ mpg is just solid.

[@Keepinitfun]

I have the 2024 Palisade Calligraphy in Steel Gray and Beige interior and absolutely love this car but what the Palisade Calligraphy is lacking: wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel- it is manual, automatic door locks when you walk away, power folding mirrors, motion activated rear lift gate - has automatic proximity instead but I don’t like that as it can lift when you don’t want it to. What it has that others don’t and are really nice: massaging drivers seat, heated and ventilated 2nd row, heated 3rd row, power down and up 3rd row, seat change on sport mode or high speed driving- side bolsters squeeze in and seat bottom also adjusts, acoustic laminated glass all around. For the cost it is great, hope the reliability is good and have no problems with warranty support as I have heard may be a problem. The finance person highly recommended the additional warranty company as he stated it would be great to have in case Hyundai refuses a warranty claim for some reason and I have since read that is common with Hyundai, time will tell.

[@BPeck15]

Thanks David, I was looking forward to when this video was going to come out! Really enjoyed your review, I'm looking forward to when my GH arrives!

[@vicwiseman6038]

Great review. I agree; the hybrid turbo 4 engine is a fantastic idea for this vehicle and I suspect it will be proven very reliable. The only real downside is towing but as a family hauler, this is more appealing than Toyota’s minivan or Sequoia. I love what Toyota has done with the interior design and space usability. My wife’s 2016 RAV4 will soon need an upgrade and this is now on the top of our list of vehicles under consideration. Thank you!

[@markmelville6670]

I go back and forth between the tubo4 GH and the 2ng gen Sequoia. No way would I buy a Sienna.

[@joshuabryant1187]

Really enjoy your reviews. Thank you.

[@digirole60]

It's a beautiful design. Much better than those of the Ford, GM etc. I'm not fond of 4 cylinder turbo but I'll take your word on it's performance. I'm old, so I have a soft spot for my 5th gen 4Runner. It's a truck for sure and very rugged and capable. Good video and I very much enjoy your channel.

[@ronaldchaikin8956]

I'll stay w my 4 runner trd pro. Thk u

[@firemanbob1994]

I currently have a 21’ Sienna XSE. We love it! I wonder if I would regret getting a Grand Highlander. We don't have kids but two seventy-pound dogs. The efficiency and room on the floor in the second row have completely spoiled us. Maybe I'll wait for a Sienna refresh with updated tech. The Hybrid system in the Sienna is perfect!

[@Andrew-pv8oz]

Mini vans are way better

[@moali121]

Don’t waste your money, nothing will beat the sienna except for another more updated sienna

[@Toyota4Life]

That front end is beautiful 😍 It’s very simple but very strong and bold

[@rfestejo]

Agreed. It's a shame that the rear is so... bland.

[@Toyota4Life]

@@rfestejo yeah, I was going to include that in my comment in the rear end doesn’t carry the aggressive of the front Yeah

[@teyewilliams2824]

Good review and straight on point.

[@sangusk45]

I thought the backend design is a bit dull. The TX looks a lot better from the back. And second, this applies to almost all 3row SUVs, top trim doesn't have bench seat option. I just don't need the captain seats for the child car seats!

[@wayneh1562]

ii like the regular highlander ,the design is not boring but i also like this one. i like that there is options

[@cachegrk]

Have to watch out for safety ratings! I thought sienna would have the best ratings but driver safety rating was only 3

[@sszzzzxx4702]

In Canada, if one wants to get a sunroof on the hybrid model, he has to pay more than 70K all in for limited trim, vs. xle trim on regular highlander for just 61k. Huge miss!

[@deborahyeh552]

In my opinion, the Mazda CX90 is a beautiful and elegant vehicle. However, its 3rd row floor space is awkward and limited.

[@mbenton6]

Bigger by 3". Mazda cx90 interior and drive kills this thing drive

[@JJustinXu]

It’s ugly, unreliable, inefficient

[@sizzlacalunji]

⁠@@mbenton6OP I will have to agree with OP. 3rd row put my 11yo knee in his chest. Test drove it and it drives very well. No issues there. Was disappointed when we tested 3rd row. Also, 2nd row was cramped when I tried to make the 3rd row work with seating positions setup for me in the 1st and 2nd row. IMO if you have small kids or don’t need the 3rd row much (only in a pinch) then it’s fine or if you the driving experience over the family then yea 😂.

[@arni7810]

Awesome this video has helped me alot!! Btw do the foglights have option to change to yellow?😮

[@rogerf9613]

Awesome review!

[@luzochoa2885]

OMG 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Excellent review through and through Well explained , thorough and straight to the point The best video review I’ve seen by far…. Good job !!! Only one question Will you be able to start the engine with the key fob? Or do you need to buy a certain package to do so?

[@guidedmeditation2396]

The only downer I see for this Grand Highlander is the Turbocharged engine. Whether it is warranted or not I have concerns about its reliability in the long long haul. The non turbocharged Toyota engines are almost guaranteed to see 200k miles with little to no repairs. I have had problems with turbocharged engines in the past and swore I wouldn't ever buy another but now it is hard to avoid them. I hope Toyota has somehow found a way to make a mega reliable one but with these newer engines we won't know for another 5 years or so if there are any unexpected issues.

[@guidedmeditation2396]

Its nice to know I am not the only one with these questions about Turbocharged engines. It feels like you are going out on a limb to raise concerns and many people think the concept of having a turbo sounds exciting!!! WOW! A TURBO! @@alalvarez671 I have to admit I was not a fan of electric power steering either. I didn't think they had been perfected, I bought a new car with one and after only three years ..... You guessed it. It went out.

[@Rinaldi186490]

Unlike the 4Runner, LC, or GX, i don’t think you buy a highlander with those types of reliability expectations. For a family hauler the mpg matters more. Use it for the warranty period and move on. This is a legitimate criticism of the powertrains in the new iterations of those other models I mentioned

[@jaigopaul8772]

I think you gave a good review on this new grand highlander. I think toyota hit it out of the park with the grand highlander.

[@jenniferkingsley2686]

Thank you for all these details! Such an informative video!

[@sueleed6560]

Got mine 1 mo ago! Limited hybrid with moonroof and 360 camera. I bought the pearl white with blackout package. Still can't figure out how it boasts 17.2 gallons. I took it down to 40 miles to go and filled it up. Only could get 11.6 gallons and it was full. The buttons for the power (eco, sport, etc) is inconvenient. My palm constantly hits the sport button when I get my water out of the cup holder and I don't realize it. I think the plastic is cheap and scuffs easily. Love the height that the GH gives. I did not pay any markups. I did order it with all the extra lights like puddle lights and hatch light etc. I get 35-40 mpg but I love driving it conservatively. I did not get the platinum because I did not want or need the max. I would sacrifice fuel economy for a little more power and noisiness. I came from a Nissan Armada so I'm impressed with the engine. Sure, not the power of a V8 but I'm saving around 300 bucks in gas/mth.

[@joelc9329]

There will most likely be a recall with the fuel situation in the future. It’s a known common problem with all these first gen GHs. Apparently instead of having a 2 gallon safety reservoir it’s closer to 5 so when your on empty you actually still have a ton of gas left

[@earthquake1011]

Would you upgrade from a 2022 regular highlander? And give up the V6? Trying to decide if it’s worth the upgrade since it will cost a lot

[@OutThere42]

What did you decide? I’m in same situation, needed a 3-row, got the V6 highlander limited (better torque-vectoring AWD). Don’t need to change but I like this vehicle, even nicer highway boat

[@everydayfun9531]

I'm thinking of getting the hybrid max grand highlander over the toyota sequoia 2025...

[@kens.3729]

Thanks for such a Thorough Review. 👍🙏

[@garyk6255]

Great Video, I agree with your assessment of the Grand Highlander How long does it take to order the hybrid model, I live in Ontario Canada,thanks again

[@cargueone1971]

Well, now you can get it as a $170,000 Century SUV.

[@alfredopolanco3168]

I’m happy with my highlander platinum glazed caramel interior. ❤️ Now I got my eye on that 2024 first edition Land Cruiser 😂

[@jimmyamico4713]

Hi David, The grand highlander is a fine SUV🇯🇵❤️🤍

[@StormBringer-]

I think the hybrid version 2.5 non turbo would be the one to get for mileage. But I still love my GX

[@moloono1]

GX gang 🤟🤟

[@bb5op585]

For life 🙌🏻

[@NanaRoz0505]

This was a very informative video. You covered a little more as far as the handling and the ease of the command center. We currently have a 2022 Highlander Hybrid Platinum. This will be our next vehicle in in the Platinum Max. The extra towing capacity is why we are going to upgrade. We need to be able to tow our boat and that is right around 3800#. The 2022 can only tow 3500#. They still can’t give me an assembly date, therefore, we don’t know if we will get the 2024 or the 2025. I can’t wait to get it.

[@bohan9957]

The problem is it's a 4-banger. I hate 4-bangers especially with a turbo. Looks like I'll be keeping my GX for a long time.

[@jonathanratliff4780]

The top model of the Lexus version will have v6, and a plug in!

[@Mycameron2323]

Aw

[@bohan9957]

@@jonathanratliff4780 TX500h？ That thing costs like $70k.

[@jonathanratliff4780]

@@bohan9957 I think more like $80,000

[@everydayfun9531]

It's a hybrid max it ain't perfect but atleast it does the job as a family SUV

[@edwardwilliamson1863]

Great video, David. Beautiful vehicle. When are you doing a review of the Lexus TX? I would love to see you do a video on the Lexus 500h+, the one that has the 3.5 V6 paired with the PHEV system.

[@rachaad]

I really like the sequoia but this so practical

[@johntambascia8850]

I want to thank you for your honesty about the new grand highlander pro max platinum. I’m in the market for a new car. I’m going to see if there are any available at the Toyota dealership. I appreciate your video

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

agree just saw one, really like it same with the crown , id put sequoia last place fold down 3rd row takes up to much space when folded down

[@michael211drivingforscuder6]

Looks like the GH is a great choice. I'll be looking to see what price it is actually available at. Lots of good info in the review. One suggestion though is to minimize how often you repeat the same comments. I was itching to fast forward when you started repeating yourself. Say it once, then recap it the very end.

[@PaulsPicks0606]

Thank you for this very informative review. I've watched at least 15 Grand Highlander reviews in the last few weeks. Yours is far and away the most in-depth, practical, and comprehensive. Over the years I've owned multiple Toyota vehicles, including 2 Tacomas and three 4 Runners. I just traded my 2024 Sequoia Hybrid Capstone for the 2024 Grand Highlander Platinum. I purchased the 2024 Sequoia last November and drove it almost 5000 miles, mostly highway. I do like it, but found the cargo storage and limited space of the third row seating area very inconvenient. When I purchased my Sequoia I did not think that would matter much since my kids are adults and I've never sat in the third row. But after a couple of trips to drop my daughter's family at the airport (including my 2 teenage grandkids traveling with more luggage than anyone would ever need) and a long road trip with my wife and our 145 lb mastiff, it mattered. But the really difficult thing to reconcile was the gas mileage and tank capacity. Although it was rated at 19 and 22, I never broke 16.5 combined city and highway. Even worse was the range-average of 304 miles to the tank! I waited 9 weeks for the Sequoia. I've been waiting 6 weeks and counting for the Grand Highlander. After watching your video I am convinced the wait will be well worth it. Thank you again!

[@anthonyfaithful4360]

This guy knows his stuff .. great video

[@romanyel]

I looked at all the middle and full size Toyota SUVs as well as Kia, Hyundai, Mitsubishi and Mazda. In the end the price differences aren't that big and for the money and what you get I thought the Grand Highlander was best. It's a little conservative looking but the Escalade, Lincoln and other large SUVs are not that unique. I agree with everything you said both pro and con.

[@mvj1960]

Can you do a comparison between Grand Highlander and Honda Pilot? My three biggest compliant with GH is 4 cylinder engine verses the old V6, No bench seat for Hybrid Max trim, and the Brown color seats are not available in the Limited trim. Love the V6 engine in the Honda Pilot but it has a belt vs chain timing belt. The Pilot had alot problems with their 9 speed transmissions so now they have a 10 speed transmission. Not sure how reliable that is. Would for you to do a comparison of the 2 suvs

[@bchowmein1711]

Ya im pretty sure im leaning towards the pilot because of that 4 cyl with turbo vs the v6. Didnt know about the pilot transmission issues ill look into that, thx!

[@kyletennant4730]

Most v6 Hondas have transmission issues going back years.

[@everydayfun9531]

3rd row still aint bad adults can comfortably sit in the 3rd row in the grand highlander itself.

[@yoshigolfer1512]

great insight. Thanks for doing it.

[@mystygrams1]

Just picked up my GH a week ago. Very fun drive.

[@victorsaleeb5632]

What is the fuel consumption rate? What is better in terms of fuel consumption: Limited or Platinum? thank you❤

[@iDevilInMyHeart]

Great video !

[@drewgunner14]

What are your opinion with the turno 4 non hybrid one? Is the acceleration acceptable?

[@Fehrman21114]

Excellent, thorough review. I have some back problems. So, I'm curious to know how comfortable the leather seats are in the Grand Highlander. Sometimes leather seats can be overly stiff, and some of them never really break in much over time. We have only been able to test drive the fake leather/vinyl seats in the XLE so far and have found them to be sticky and sweaty at times, though not stiff.

[@tar2185]

The Limited and Platinum trims have comfortable seats

[@OutThere42]

I have highlander limited with heated/cooled perforated leather seats. Higher grade material, soft, not plasticity/sticky and the ventilation makes heat and cooling much more comfortable. We drive 8+ hrs (with occ stop) very comfortably

[@bradleycrouser]

Sticking with my 2022 Highlander with its smooth and highly dependable six-cylinder engine, thank you!

[@java2894]

Does it comes with adaptive headlights?

[@Moe-bg1or]

This is what Toyota needed for decades to meet the demand of a family. Previous 3 row Highlander wasn’t really practical for many. This can give a lot of Chevy and Ford large SUVs a run for their money

[@summermoninger6695]

This is an incredible review! Thank you

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@alootiki-kt3jd]

Do you think we need a side runner step for Grand highlander? How will it improve your car entry.

[@claywalbrook5239]

David, how about the gas mileage, we have a 2020 GX460 and we are thinking of that one or the TX, but where we live we have to travel to Edmonton to get the Gx fix, need your help. I did buy the TRD pro and best truck on gas.

[@everydayfun9531]

Get the hybrid max grand highlander won’t let you down and will be reliable trust me!

[@geemiami6251]

Thanks for shedding some light 😊

[@TK-qh3sl]

David, the highest trim levels are almost always going to get the most love. What about the regular GH hybrid with E-CVT? What are your thoughts on that vehicle with respect to engine, power, performance, and practicality?

[@mikeg3810]

Toyota is known for their quality. But they need to step up their game compared to brands like Escalade, Tahoe and Denali. Those brands we know not as reliable but the style and body size are the top of the class. The GX still seems it falls a tad bit short in interior room and features. The American SUVs feel like private jets on 4 wheels. Of course, you’re paying for it!

[@davidgonzales82]

I sat in the grand highlander when shopping for a 4Runner. My wife and I disliked the way you sit. It felt low like the tacoma.

[@ALMX5DP]

Was the seat bottom adjusted up for height?

[@notsodelusional]

Great insights!

[@nickjacques6087]

First time seeing the grand highlander. It does not seem to have a roof rack despite being a platinum level. Also, I did not see that it can tow (maybe hidden). Maybe those are add on options. But for a basic people mover for a large family it seems great, though the style to me is bland. I wonder what the mpg is for the platinum. I assume the Lexus version will have tighter steering and more style but be a close cousin. Thank you

[@Mycameron2323]

Has roof rack mounting points, and can add a hitch.

[@icarussisyphus]

Great review. Will be curious how this will go against the upcoming Land Cruiser. I am looking for my last car before I retire and die. Wondering if this will be the car. My worry is I tow a 3500lb boat and over the years the salt and all the dings from towing will wear it down. Not sure if the shocks will make it rugged enough when I hit curbs or go on dirt remote roads with the boat. May go with the Land Cruiser because of my reckless driving and abuse when towing the boat as the trailer will put a lot of weight on the hitch to slant the backend down.

[@outkast334]

How what a review!!!! Thank you!

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad it was helpful!

[@americandude3825]

I like the title. That’s what I’ve been saying that since it’s reveal.

[@PeterGinUAE]

Maybe you can do a video detailing the driver's experience with a suspension that has "adaptive variable suspension" (e.g. Toyota Crown) versus those without. The upcoming Lexus TX 500h F-Performance has this feature and your past reviews of the Toyota Crown suggest it greatly improves ride and handling qualities.

[@rhuynh]

I don't think you said this specifically but you think it is worth the additional price and giving up about 10mpg from the GH regular hybrid for the Max? I know I know depends on priorities or what you are solving for but in general and balanced value equation?

[@ExpeditionaryRanger]

After 7.5 years with our 2016 Highlander XLE, we took possession of our 2024 Grand Highlander XLE on Sept 1st, as our family of six outgrew the original. 1400 km so far. Agree with all points in this video. The regular turbo 4 is no slouch either. This is Toyota number 6 for us! Any questions I would be happy to answer from our experience so far.

[@waqarjaved2931]

Someone on KZbin said its built quality is not good and their exhaust fell while driving (hars to believe). They also said the sheet metal is thinner than before and that the infotainment system has glitches. Being an owner yourself, your input on these converns would be appreciated. Looking to buy this myself, but now want to hear unbiased, actual owner thoughts before jumping in.

[@ExpeditionaryRanger]

@@waqarjaved2931 My exhaust hasn't fallen off yet. :o). That's highly unfortunate if true, and seems to be a complete miss in QC. I would say the sheet metal is indeed thinner than the old highlander. How the vehicle is lighter and larger is impressive, and I suspect the sheet metal is likely thinner, along with perhaps a lighter chassis.. For example, I wouldn't try and close the back door if it was jammed bby pushing on the sheet metal... you would for sure risk a dent if pushing on it in the wrong place (I did this with my knee on my father's '14 rav, by accidentlypushing on the crease in the door). Similar to our '21 Rav4 trail, when on the highway at speeds ~110-120 km/h you can see in the glare on the hood paint that the hood is slightly distorting in the airflow. I think some toyotas have been like this for awhile, including the 4Runner. No glitches in the infotainment to date; definitely the fastest and smoothest system we have had of our 6 toyotas so far. It is annoying that there are a few controls that can only be accessed for the HVAC in the touchscreen; these are the auto AC for rear passengers (but there's also a hard button on the rear passenger controls in the mid row), and to get ECO mode for the HVAC you also have to go into the infotainment... I think that's the only two. We are still waiting out hood deflector, hitch, and cargo rubber mats, as they aren't available yet in Canada. Maybe the only other minor complaint is the lever for the midrow slide is a plastic lift lever, versus our old '16 having a metal bar to lift in the front of the seat... seems like that would break easier if someone was tryin to force the seat front or back by holding on the plastic tab versus the metal bar that acted as the release and the handle in the old unit. Other than that, we have had it with 8 people already, which included three booster seats and an infant carrier, and it finally is, a true eight seater that can take 6 in the back who aren't just 10 year old kids 4' tall.

[@dt5656]

I got an xle hybrid model last week for daily stuff and car camping / trips. Coming from a rav4 is a bit of an adjustment particularly in parking …. Any tips on that? I looked to get parking sensors installed aftermarket but they are not available. Other than that …it rides nicer than the rav4 - much easier on the lumbar region!! Thanks!

[@ExpeditionaryRanger]

For sure. Save your money and just keep practicing. The vehicle will shrink in just a few weeks and you won’t even be thinking about it anymore. We notice it has a tighter turning radius than our older smaller HL. Note of caution; the rear doors are huge and the fronts seem smaller than the old HL. Thus, go for the longer walk in the Parking lot and try and safe park away from the crowds to minimize the dings.

[@jonkrispeterson6678]

Sold my 2015 Highlander XLE AWD to buy a GH Hybrid Limited. Had 208k trouble free miles. I would say the GH is significantly quieter, sound system is better, and getting about 32 mpg. Did a drive thru South Dakota at 80mph and it was great. I would say the metal does feel thinner. But it was a good move up.

[@joelrodriguez7038]

The problem is the new engine reliability

[@venessahoffman7989]

We love our max platinum hybrid. The gas usage is confusing but ok. At fill up we only fill 10 to 11 gallons so it means we're getting better mileage. That's ok.

[@4GivenMuch]

What do you think of the regular hybrid, not the max?

[@michaelcoughlin8238]

As a 4Runner owner I'm a little worried that this seems too much like a minivan. I don't need the 3rd row and would be interested to see if its available without it.

[@paulyd8291]

I really wish Toyota did not put black plastic trim around the grand highlander…especially for the upper trim levels. Otherwise, beautiful SUV

[@72151]

Excellent review overall.

[@rightlanehog3151]

David, I do not understand how car-based, unibody CUVs can be compared to truck-based, body-on-frame SUVs. 🤔 That is like comparing a comfortable walking shoe to a heavy duty construction boot. 😉

[@ALMX5DP]

I presume lots of people cross shop without realizing the inherent differences. Some people prioritize image or certain features and make concessions on others, not dissimilar to people you see in public wearing certain types of shoes that may not be what you’d consider the norm for a use case.

[@immahockeyfan]

Now that the Lexus TX is out - would you recommend the GH or the TX?

[@edwardwilliamson1863]

It comes down to the pocketbook at this point. If one wants to have a V6, they would go with the TX500H+, which is also PHEV. However, it costs around $90K.

[@legacyjeetkunedo492]

I would never buy a Lexus/Toyota made outside of Japan. It’s not just the process, but the people.

[@pm7805]

Can you comment on the thickness of the metal sheet the car is built with? How solid the doors close?

[@CarynParadis]

From personal experience, doors are solid but hood moves a lot near windshield. I disagree on paint....lots of orange peel

[@pm7805]

@@CarynParadis not sure if you compared the same on Lexus TX.