The Toyota Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo, introduced in August 2023, represents a significant expansion of Toyota’s SUV lineup, positioned as a larger alternative to the popular Highlander. This variant, equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 265 horsepower and paired with Toyota’s Direct Shift ECT 8-speed automatic transmission, aims to deliver a balance of power, efficiency, and spaciousness for families. It slots into the Grand Highlander range as a mid-level offering, bridging the gap between the base 2.4-liter non-turbo model and the hybrid powertrains. The Grand Highlander itself is built on a stretched version of the TNGA-K platform, offering three rows of seating for seven or eight passengers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Grand Highlander |
| Generation | Grand Highlander |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 Turbo (265 Hp) Direct Shift ECT |
| Start of production | August, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Emission standard | SULEV 30 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 215.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 110.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 1700-3600 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 1700-3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | T24A-FTS |
| Engine displacement | 2393 cm3 (146.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99.5 mm (3.92 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1950-2005 kg (4299.01 – 4420.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2726 kg (6009.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 721-776 kg (1589.53 – 1710.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 583 l (20.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2761 l (97.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2268 kg (5000.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 227 kg (500.45 lbs.) |
| Length | 5115 mm (201.38 in.) |
| Width | 1990 mm (78.35 in.) |
| Height | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2950 mm (116.14 in.) |
| Front track | 1705-1715 mm (67.13 – 67.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1715-1725 mm (67.52 – 67.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm (7.99 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 16.9° |
| Departure angle | 22.3° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 16.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Direct Shift ECT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 340 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 338 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/65 R18; 255/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Toyota Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo, launched for the 2024 model year, is a three-row SUV designed to address the growing demand for larger, more capable family vehicles. It builds upon the success of the standard Highlander, offering increased interior space, particularly in the third row, and a more robust powertrain option. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and 8-speed automatic transmission combination provides a step up in performance compared to the base 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine, while still offering competitive fuel economy within its class. This variant is aimed at buyers who need the space of a large SUV but don’t necessarily require the added complexity or cost of a hybrid powertrain.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo lies the T24A-FTS engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. It features Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection system, combining direct injection with port injection for optimal combustion. The engine also incorporates Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) on both intake and exhaust valves, further enhancing performance and fuel economy. The 8-speed Direct Shift ECT automatic transmission is designed for smooth and responsive shifting, with gear ratios optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising. This transmission is known for its quick shifts and ability to handle the engine’s torque output effectively. The engine produces 265 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque between 1700 and 3600 rpm.
Driving Characteristics
The Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo delivers a noticeable improvement in acceleration compared to the base engine. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 7.5 seconds. The turbocharger provides strong low-end torque, making it easy to accelerate from a stop or pass other vehicles on the highway. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, and the gear ratios are well-suited for both city and highway driving. While not a sports SUV, the 2.4 Turbo offers a confident and capable driving experience. Compared to the hybrid models, the turbo engine provides a more traditional driving feel, with a more linear power delivery. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides adequate traction in most conditions, but all-wheel drive is available as an option for enhanced stability and control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo is typically offered in several trim levels, such as XLE, Limited, and Platinum. Standard features generally include Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which encompasses a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with lane tracing assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. Interior features typically include an 8-inch touchscreen display (larger screens are available on higher trims), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. Higher trims add features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. Optional extras include a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a head-up display, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Highlander utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 340mm, while the rear brakes are 338mm. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praise its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong acceleration. The fuel economy, rated at 24 mpg combined, is considered competitive for its class. Compared to other mid-size SUVs with turbocharged engines, the Grand Highlander offers a good balance of performance, efficiency, and value. The hybrid models offer even better fuel economy, but the 2.4 Turbo provides a more engaging driving experience for those who prefer a traditional gasoline engine. Some critics have noted that the interior design is not as luxurious as some competitors, but the Grand Highlander compensates with its practicality and reliability.
Legacy
The Toyota Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo is still a relatively new vehicle, but early indications suggest that it will be a reliable and durable SUV. Toyota has a long-standing reputation for building high-quality vehicles, and the Grand Highlander benefits from the company’s extensive engineering expertise. The T24A-FTS engine has been used in other Toyota and Lexus models, and has proven to be a robust and dependable powerplant. As the Grand Highlander ages, its long-term reliability will become more apparent, but it is expected to hold its value well and remain a popular choice among families for years to come. The used car market is still developing for this model, but it is anticipated to be in demand due to Toyota’s strong brand reputation and the Grand Highlander’s practical features.
