The Toyota Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo Hybrid MAX AWD Direct Shift, introduced in August 2023, represents the top-tier performance offering within the newly launched Grand Highlander lineup. Positioned as the flagship trim, it caters to buyers seeking a spacious three-row SUV with substantial power and advanced hybrid technology. This variant distinguishes itself from the base 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and the standard hybrid models through its significantly enhanced powertrain, delivering a combined output of 362 horsepower and 542 Nm (399.76 lb-ft) of torque. The Grand Highlander aims to bridge the gap between the Highlander and larger SUVs, offering a compelling alternative for families prioritizing space and capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Grand Highlander |
| Generation | Grand Highlander |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 Turbo (362 Hp) Hybrid MAX AWD Direct Shift |
| Start of production | August, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Emission standard | SULEV 30 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 162.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 242.8 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 1.44 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 288 V |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| Electric motor power (1) | 87 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (1) | 292 Nm (215.37 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (1) | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type (1) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (2) | 103 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (2) | 168 Nm (123.91 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (2) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (2) | Synchronous |
| System power | 362 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| System torque | 542 Nm @ 2000-3000 rpm (399.76 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3000 rpm) |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 2000-3000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3000 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 | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2232 kg (4920.72 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2876 kg (6340.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 644 kg (1419.78 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 583 l (20.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2761 l (97.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 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 mm (67.13 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1715 mm (67.52 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 | ICE drives front wheels, one electric motor drives front wheels, one electric motor drives rear wheels. Full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Direct Shift |
| 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 | 255/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Toyota Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo Hybrid MAX AWD Direct Shift, launched for the 2024 model year, is a significant addition to Toyota’s SUV portfolio. Built on the TNGA-K platform, it offers a larger alternative to the standard Highlander, addressing the growing demand for three-row SUVs with more space and capability. This particular variant, with its potent hybrid powertrain, is positioned at the top of the Grand Highlander range, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and advanced technology. It aims to compete with larger SUVs like the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade, while offering the renowned Toyota reliability and hybrid expertise.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX lies the T24A-FTS 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection, producing 265 horsepower and 331.9 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system incorporates two electric motors: one positioned between the engine and the six-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, delivering 87 hp and 215.37 lb-ft of torque, and a second electric motor driving the rear axle, contributing an additional 103 hp and 123.91 lb-ft of torque. This configuration allows for a combined system output of 362 horsepower and 399.76 lb-ft of torque. The battery pack, a 1.44 kWh nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) unit, is strategically located under the rear seats, minimizing intrusion into passenger or cargo space. The Direct Shift transmission, a Toyota innovation, provides quick and seamless gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX delivers a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to the standard engine options. The combined output of the engine and electric motors provides strong acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.3 seconds. The Direct Shift transmission contributes to responsive shifts, and the all-wheel-drive system provides confident traction in various conditions. While the hybrid system prioritizes efficiency, the powertrain readily delivers power when needed, making overtaking and merging onto highways effortless. The electric motors provide instant torque, supplementing the engine’s output and contributing to a smooth and refined driving experience. Compared to the standard 2.4L turbo, the Hybrid MAX offers a substantial performance upgrade, while the fuel economy remains competitive.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Hybrid MAX trim typically comes standard with a high level of equipment. Features generally include leather-trimmed seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a premium JBL audio system, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Available options often include a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. Interior upholstery is typically a combination of SofTex and leather, and the dashboard features a modern design with premium materials. The trim level is generally positioned as the most luxurious and well-equipped in the Grand Highlander lineup.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Highlander utilizes an independent suspension system, with a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link configuration at the rear. This suspension design provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are included at both ends to minimize body roll during cornering. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The Hybrid MAX trim benefits from larger brake rotors (340mm front, 338mm rear) compared to lower trims, further enhancing braking performance. The electric motors also contribute to regenerative braking, helping to recharge the battery and improve overall efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praise its spacious interior, powerful powertrain, and comfortable ride. The hybrid system’s fuel economy is considered competitive for its class, achieving around 27 mpg combined. Compared to other trims in the Grand Highlander lineup, the Hybrid MAX offers a significant performance advantage, but comes at a higher price point. Against competitors like the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride, the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX stands out with its unique hybrid powertrain and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. Some critics note that the infotainment system could be more intuitive, but overall, the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX is considered a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment.
Legacy
It is still early to assess the long-term reliability of the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX powertrain. However, Toyota’s hybrid technology has a proven track record of durability and longevity. The T24A-FTS engine, while relatively new, is based on Toyota’s established engine architecture. The Direct Shift transmission is also a Toyota-developed technology with a history of reliability. In the used car market, the Hybrid MAX trim is expected to hold its value well due to its desirable combination of performance, efficiency, and features. As the Grand Highlander matures, it has the potential to become a popular and respected choice among families seeking a spacious and capable three-row SUV.
