FUEL-SIPPING BEHEMOTH - 2024 TOYOTA GRAND HIGHLANDER HYBRID ROAD TEST

EV Channels Review

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid XLE is presented as a practical and efficient choice for families needing ample space. The reviewer highlights its fuel economy, estimating real-world figures in the mid-30s, potentially reaching 37 MPG for the AWD hybrid, and even higher for FWD. While acknowledging its 243 horsepower is the least potent of the three powertrains, it's praised for sipping the least fuel, making it an economical option for budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing long road trips with its impressive range. The interior is described as spacious, with ample headroom and legroom even in the third row, and the base XLE trim offers a standard 12-inch infotainment screen and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. However, the reviewer notes the XLE's materials are less premium than higher trims, and the absence of parking sensors is a significant drawback for a vehicle of this size, leading to a recommendation for the Limited trim or higher for those amenities. Despite its less powerful hybrid system, the reviewer finds the ride quality and quietness comparable to higher trims, making the XLE a compelling value proposition for its practicality and efficiency.