Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Has Maximum Style, Comfort

Numbers tell the story of the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Platinum – the first one being 10, as in “Wards 10 Best Interiors and UX winner for 2024.”

Another key number is three. Toyota adds a third row of seating by stretching the Highlander by some 6 ins. (152 mm). The result is an efficient combination of versatility and spaciousness, in what is the runaway sales leader in the large-crossover segment.

Toyota skillfully rearranges the interior dimensions of the stretched Highlander.

Second-row legroom expands by a noteworthy 5.5 ins. (140 mm) to 33.5 ins. (851 mm) with added headroom (+1.1 in. [28 mm]) and shoulder space (+2.5 ins. [64 mm]) as well. That adds up to room for two full-size adults or three children, with access aided by a sliding second row.

The third row features a handy step and grab-handle for passengers to climb aboard. They also have two of the six standard USB-C charge ports and four of the 13 cup or bottle holders installed throughout the vehicle.

The front-row seating is notably comfortable, with good lumbar support among the highlights. Second-row passengers get heated bucket seats, seats that match the front row for comfort and roominess. They also get their own climate controls and a 115V AC outlet – with a second one in the cargo area for good measure.

That cargo area behind the third row grows by 4.6 cu. ft. (130 L) to 20.6 cu. ft. (583 L), providing space for seven suitcases, says Toyota. Overall passenger volume grows 12 cu. ft. (340 L) to 153.3 cu. ft. (4,332 L), with a bit less volume in models with panoramic moonroofs.

The cabin of our test vehicle has a handsome saddle-brown-and-black color scheme with white stitching. Copper-colored trim around the gear selector, drive-mode controls and elsewhere adds a high-end flourish. Soft-touch points abound thanks to faux leather and suede fabric as well as big, padded armrests. Judges praise the deep center console topped by generous cushioning; it also houses a wireless phone charger.

A 12.3-in. (31-cm) center touchscreen is easy to navigate and gives access to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which come standard. The maps offer plenty of detail and the ability to switch from 2-D to 3-D display. Wards’ judges were impressed with the “Hey Toyota” voice recognition system, too. Feeling too warm or too cold? Just speak up, and the system adjusts to your comfort level.

But despite the huge screen, there’s plentiful hard switchgear to control the audio and HVAC functions.

Judge Dave Zoia gave high marks to the easy-to-use voice recognition system, as well as praises the copper-like trim around vents, calling the detail a “nice luxe touch.”Of course, one of the most important numbers is price. And at $58,000, the Grand Highlander Hybrid delivers good value in a package that judge Christie Schweinsberg says – thanks to its max comfort and plenty of room, ports and outlets – “is absolutely made for families.”