The Toyota Highlander has long been a staple in the mid-size SUV market, known for its reliability, practicality, and family-friendly features. However, with the introduction of the Grand Highlander, Toyota has expanded its offerings, creating a new option that caters to a slightly different set of needs. Understanding the distinctions between these two SUVs is crucial for making an informed purchasing decision. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences, comparing them in terms of size, performance, interior, technology, and overall suitability for various lifestyles.
Size and Dimensions: Space Matters
One of the most significant differences between the Highlander and the Grand Highlander is their size. The Grand Highlander is noticeably larger, designed to provide more space, especially in the third row and cargo area. This increased size translates into enhanced comfort for passengers and greater versatility for hauling cargo.
Exterior Dimensions: A Visual Comparison
The Grand Highlander boasts a longer wheelbase and overall length compared to the standard Highlander. This difference isn’t just a matter of aesthetics; it directly impacts the interior space and ride quality. The extended length contributes to a more stable and comfortable ride, particularly on long journeys. The visual difference is noticeable; the Grand Highlander presents a more imposing and substantial presence on the road.
Interior Space: Passenger Comfort and Cargo Capacity
The interior dimensions reveal the true advantage of the Grand Highlander. The third-row seating is significantly more spacious and comfortable, making it suitable for adults, not just children. This is a major selling point for families who regularly transport multiple passengers. The cargo area behind the third row is also considerably larger in the Grand Highlander, providing ample space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment, even when all seats are occupied. In contrast, the standard Highlander’s third row is best suited for children or shorter adults on shorter trips, and the cargo space can feel limited with all seats in use. The Grand Highlander addresses these concerns directly.
Performance and Powertrains: Under the Hood
While both the Highlander and Grand Highlander offer a range of engine options, there are some key differences in their performance characteristics and available powertrains. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the SUV that best aligns with your driving needs and preferences.
Engine Options: Comparing Horsepower and Fuel Efficiency
The standard Highlander offers a choice between a traditional gasoline engine and a hybrid powertrain. The gasoline engine provides ample power for everyday driving, while the hybrid option prioritizes fuel efficiency. The Grand Highlander also offers a similar choice, but with some variations. The Grand Highlander’s engine options are designed to provide a balance between power and efficiency, considering its larger size and weight. While specific engine configurations may vary depending on the model year and trim level, the underlying principle remains the same: to offer a diverse range of options to cater to different driving styles and priorities. Consider your typical driving conditions and priorities when selecting an engine.
Driving Dynamics: Ride Quality and Handling
The Grand Highlander’s larger size and longer wheelbase contribute to a smoother and more stable ride compared to the standard Highlander. This is particularly noticeable on highways and during longer journeys. The handling is also well-composed, despite its larger dimensions. The standard Highlander, on the other hand, offers a slightly more agile and responsive driving experience, making it well-suited for navigating city streets and tight parking spaces. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your individual preferences and driving style. If you prioritize comfort and stability, the Grand Highlander is the better option. If you prefer a more nimble and engaging driving experience, the standard Highlander may be more appealing.
Interior Features and Technology: Comfort and Connectivity
Both the Highlander and Grand Highlander offer a wide array of interior features and technology, designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and connectivity. However, there are some subtle differences in the available features and their execution.
Infotainment Systems: Display Size and Functionality
Both SUVs feature modern infotainment systems with touchscreen displays, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a variety of connectivity options. However, the Grand Highlander often boasts a larger touchscreen display, providing a more immersive and user-friendly experience. The Grand Highlander tends to offer more advanced features, such as wireless smartphone connectivity and a more sophisticated voice recognition system. The standard Highlander, while still well-equipped, may offer a slightly more basic infotainment system in lower trim levels. Consider the features that are most important to you when evaluating the infotainment systems.
Comfort and Convenience Features: Seating and Amenities
The Grand Highlander typically offers a wider range of comfort and convenience features, particularly in higher trim levels. This may include features such as heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. The larger cabin also allows for more creative storage solutions and a more spacious and comfortable environment for all passengers. Both vehicles offer a good range of features, but the Grand Highlander tends to offer a more luxurious and refined experience, reflecting its position as a premium offering within the Toyota lineup.
Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Passengers
Toyota prioritizes safety in both the Highlander and Grand Highlander, equipping them with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and driver-assistance technologies. These features are designed to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Standard Safety Features: Toyota Safety Sense
Both SUVs come standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety features that includes pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. These features work together to enhance driver awareness and help prevent accidents. The specific features included in Toyota Safety Sense may vary slightly depending on the model year and trim level.
Advanced Safety Technologies: Blind Spot Monitoring and More
In addition to the standard safety features, both the Highlander and Grand Highlander offer a range of optional advanced safety technologies, such as blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, and a surround-view camera system. These features provide additional layers of protection and can help make driving safer and easier, especially in challenging conditions. The availability of these features may vary depending on the trim level and options package.
Target Audience: Who are These SUVs For?
The Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander, while both SUVs, cater to slightly different target audiences. Understanding these differences will help you determine which SUV is the best fit for your needs and lifestyle.
The Toyota Highlander: A Versatile Mid-Size SUV
The Toyota Highlander is a versatile mid-size SUV that is well-suited for families who need a reliable and practical vehicle with three rows of seating. It offers a good balance of fuel efficiency, performance, and comfort. The Highlander is a great choice for families who occasionally need to transport extra passengers or cargo but don’t require the extra space of a full-size SUV. It’s also a good option for those who value a more nimble and engaging driving experience. The Highlander’s more compact size makes it easier to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spaces.
The Grand Highlander: Prioritizing Space and Comfort
The Grand Highlander is designed for families who prioritize space, comfort, and versatility. Its larger size and more spacious third row make it ideal for families with multiple children or those who regularly transport adult passengers. The increased cargo capacity is also a major advantage for families who frequently travel with luggage, sports equipment, or other bulky items. The Grand Highlander is also a good choice for those who value a smoother and more comfortable ride, particularly on long journeys. The Grand Highlander can comfortably accommodate a larger family and their belongings.
Pricing and Value: Making the Right Investment
Pricing is a crucial factor in any purchasing decision. Understanding the price ranges of the Highlander and Grand Highlander, as well as their respective features and benefits, will help you determine which SUV offers the best value for your money.
Base Price and Trim Levels: Understanding the Cost
The standard Highlander typically has a lower starting price compared to the Grand Highlander. This reflects its smaller size and slightly less extensive list of standard features. However, the price difference may narrow as you move up to higher trim levels with more advanced features. It’s important to compare the prices of similar trim levels across both models to get an accurate picture of the cost difference. Also, consider any available incentives or discounts that may further impact the final price. Thoroughly research pricing and available options to find the best deal.
Resale Value and Long-Term Ownership Costs
Toyota vehicles are generally known for their excellent resale value, and both the Highlander and Grand Highlander are likely to hold their value well over time. However, it’s important to consider long-term ownership costs, such as maintenance, insurance, and fuel consumption. The Grand Highlander, with its larger size and potentially less fuel-efficient engines, may have slightly higher ownership costs compared to the standard Highlander. Researching these factors will help you make a more informed decision about which SUV offers the best long-term value.
In conclusion, both the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander are excellent SUVs that offer a compelling combination of practicality, reliability, and features. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize space, comfort, and versatility, the Grand Highlander is the better option. If you value a more nimble driving experience and a lower starting price, the standard Highlander may be more appealing. By carefully considering the differences in size, performance, interior, and target audience, you can choose the SUV that is the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
What are the key differences in size between the Toyota Highlander and the Grand Highlander?
The most significant difference between the Highlander and Grand Highlander is their size. The Grand Highlander is notably larger, offering more cargo space and passenger room, particularly in the third row. This makes it a better choice for families who regularly need to transport multiple passengers and their belongings, especially on longer trips where comfort and ample space are crucial.
Specifically, the Grand Highlander boasts a longer wheelbase and overall length compared to the Highlander. This translates to more legroom for third-row passengers and significantly increased cargo capacity behind the third row, addressing a common complaint about the Highlander’s limited space in that area. If third-row space and cargo volume are priorities, the Grand Highlander is the clear winner.
Which SUV offers better fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander or the Grand Highlander?
Typically, the Toyota Highlander offers slightly better fuel economy than the Grand Highlander, primarily due to its smaller size and lighter weight. The Highlander’s base engine and hybrid powertrain options are generally more fuel-efficient. However, the specific fuel economy can vary depending on the trim level, engine configuration, and driving conditions for both models.
While the Grand Highlander might sacrifice a bit in fuel efficiency for its larger size and increased capabilities, the difference is not drastically significant, especially with the availability of hybrid versions in the Grand Highlander lineup. Drivers prioritizing maximum fuel economy should carefully compare the EPA estimates for their desired trims and engine options for both SUVs to make an informed decision.
How do the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander compare in terms of third-row seating comfort and accessibility?
The Grand Highlander excels in third-row seating comfort and accessibility compared to the standard Highlander. Its larger dimensions provide significantly more legroom and headroom for third-row passengers, making it a more comfortable experience for adults or taller children. The Grand Highlander is designed to genuinely accommodate adults in the back, unlike the Highlander, which is often better suited for children in the third row.
Access to the third row is also easier in the Grand Highlander, often featuring wider door openings and more convenient mechanisms for sliding and folding the second-row seats. This ease of access is particularly beneficial for families who frequently use the third row. The difference in third-row usability is a major selling point for the Grand Highlander for larger families.
What are the main differences in cargo space between the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander?
Cargo space is a major differentiating factor between the Toyota Highlander and the Grand Highlander. The Grand Highlander provides substantially more cargo volume, particularly behind the third row, making it significantly more practical for hauling luggage, groceries, or other cargo when all seats are occupied. This difference addresses a common concern with the Highlander’s limited cargo capacity when the third row is in use.
The Grand Highlander’s larger cargo area behind the third row makes it much more suitable for families who need to transport both passengers and cargo simultaneously. With the third row folded down, both vehicles offer comparable cargo space, but the Grand Highlander still maintains an advantage. If cargo capacity is a high priority, especially with passengers in the third row, the Grand Highlander is the superior choice.
Which SUV is better suited for city driving and parking, the Toyota Highlander or the Grand Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander is generally better suited for city driving and parking due to its smaller size and easier maneuverability. Navigating crowded city streets and fitting into tighter parking spaces is typically easier with the Highlander. Its smaller footprint makes it more practical for everyday urban commutes and errands.
While the Grand Highlander offers greater interior space and cargo capacity, its larger dimensions can make it more challenging to maneuver and park in urban environments. Drivers who frequently navigate congested city areas or have limited parking options may find the Highlander a more convenient choice. The Grand Highlander’s size might make parking garages and narrow streets slightly more difficult to manage.
How do the starting prices of the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander compare?
The Toyota Highlander generally has a lower starting price than the Grand Highlander. This price difference reflects the Grand Highlander’s larger size, increased features, and enhanced capabilities. Budget-conscious buyers may find the Highlander more appealing initially, especially if they don’t require the extra space offered by the Grand Highlander.
However, it’s important to compare the prices of similarly equipped models to make an accurate assessment. While the base Highlander might be cheaper, the Grand Highlander offers more value for some buyers due to its superior space and features. Consider your specific needs and priorities when comparing prices, as the added cost of the Grand Highlander might be justified by its increased practicality for larger families.
What are the advantages of choosing the Toyota Grand Highlander over the Toyota Highlander for long road trips?
For long road trips, the Toyota Grand Highlander offers several advantages over the standard Highlander. The Grand Highlander provides significantly more passenger and cargo space, enhancing comfort for all occupants, especially on extended journeys. The increased legroom in the third row and the greater cargo capacity behind it are particularly beneficial for families traveling with multiple passengers and their luggage.
Additionally, the Grand Highlander often includes features designed for comfort and convenience on long trips, such as advanced entertainment systems, ample storage compartments, and comfortable seating configurations. The smoother ride quality and reduced road noise also contribute to a more enjoyable travel experience. While both are capable SUVs, the Grand Highlander’s superior space and features make it a more compelling choice for frequent long-distance travel.