2024 Toyota Highlander: Full Feature Review and What’s New

The 2024 Toyota Highlander arrives at a time when families expect both versatility and a touch of excitement from a midsize SUV. Across its three‑row layout, the latest Highlander blends a refreshed exterior, upgraded powertrains, and a tech‑focused cabin that aims to keep pace with rivals. Below, we break down the most relevant changes, from engine options to safety gear, so you can decide whether this model earns a spot in your garage.

Exterior Refresh and Design Cues

Toyota has given the Highlander a modest facelift that feels more confident without abandoning its recognizable silhouette. The front fascia now sports a larger grille with a matte‑black surround, while slimmer LED headlights add a sharper look. Rear styling sees a new light bar that stretches across the tailgate, echoing the design language of the 2024 RAV4.

• Wheel options range from 18‑inch alloy designs to a 20‑inch sport‑styled wheel on the Platinum trim.
• Roof‑line is slightly higher, offering a touch more headroom for third‑row passengers.
• Paint colors include a fresh “Celestial Silver” and “Moonlit Blue” that were not available last year.

Powertrain Lineup and Performance

The 2024 Highlander continues to offer three distinct power sources, each paired with an eight‑speed automatic transmission. The base 2.5‑liter four‑cylinder produces 265 hp, providing a smooth and economical drive for daily commutes. For those who crave more torque, a 3.5‑liter V6 delivers 295 hp, pushing the SUV into a more spirited performance band.

The hybrid variant couples a 2.5‑liter engine with an electric motor for a combined output of roughly 243 hp. This setup shines in city traffic, where the electric assist frequently handles low‑speed cruising, resulting in noticeably lower fuel consumption.

All models can be ordered with either front‑wheel drive or all‑wheel drive; the AWD system is now electronically controlled, offering quicker response during sudden maneuvers.

Fuel Economy in Real‑World Terms

Real‑world owners report the four‑cylinder achieving about 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the V6 hovers near 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The hybrid, as expected, leads the pack with roughly 36 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, making it an attractive choice for families that log many miles on the freeway.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Flexibility

Step inside and the cabin feels more upscale than its predecessor. Soft‑touch materials, optional leather‑ette upholstery, and a revised dashboard layout give the space a contemporary vibe. The second‑row bench folds flat with a simple lever, while the third‑row seats slide forward and can be folded flat to create a 78‑cubic‑foot cargo area.

Standard seating for the base L trim includes cloth with a 60/40 split‑folding second row. Higher trims add heated front seats, ventilated second‑row seats, and a power‑adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support.

Infotainment and Connectivity

All trims now sport a 12.3‑inch touchscreen that runs Toyota’s latest Entune 4.0 system. The interface is more responsive, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wireless, meaning you can connect your phone without a cable. An optional 14‑speaker JBL premium audio package brings concert‑level sound to the cabin.

Additional tech features include a digital instrument cluster on the higher trims, a head‑up display that projects speed and navigation cues, and a rear‑seat entertainment system with dual 10‑inch screens for passengers on long trips.

Safety Suite: Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+

The 2024 Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a collection of driver‑assist tools that have become a hallmark of the brand. Key components are:

• Pre‑Collision System with pedestrian detection.
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control that can bring the vehicle to a complete stop in traffic.
• Lane Tracing Assist paired with lane‑keeping assist for subtle steering corrections.
• Road Sign Assist that identifies speed limits and other signs.

On top of the standard suite, the Platinum trim adds a blind‑spot monitor with rear cross‑traffic alert and a front‑looking sonar system that can detect objects at low speeds.

Trim Levels and Pricing Snapshot

Buyers can choose from four main trims, each offering a different blend of comfort and capability:

• L – entry‑level, starts around $36,000.
• XLE – adds a power moonroof and upgraded upholstery, pricing near $38,500.
• Limited – includes leather‑ette seats, navigation, and a larger wheels package; starts at roughly $45,200.
• Platinum – top‑of‑the‑line with all‑wheel drive standard, premium audio, and advanced safety features; price hovers around $50,000.

The hybrid powertrain adds roughly $2,500 to the MSRP, reflecting the additional battery and electric motor components.

How the 2024 Highlander Stacks Up Against Competitors

When lined up next to the Honda Pilot, Kia Sorento, and Hyundai Palisade, the Highlander holds its own thanks to a well‑rounded package. Its hybrid efficiency outpaces most gasoline rivals, while the V6 still delivers respectable power without the fuel‑penalty of older V8s. Inside, the infotainment upgrade gives it an edge over the Pilot’s more dated screen, though the Sorento offers a slightly larger third‑row seat width.

Ownership Considerations

Reliability remains a strong point for Toyota, and the Highlander benefits from the brand’s reputation for low‑maintenance costs. Warranty coverage includes a three‑year/36,000‑mile basic warranty and a five‑year/60,000‑mile power‑train guarantee. Resale values also stay robust, often retaining 55‑60 % of original price after five years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2024 Highlander’s third‑row suitable for adults?

The third row is best suited for teenagers or children on longer trips. Adults can fit comfortably for short rides, but headroom and legroom are tighter compared to larger three‑row SUVs.

What’s the biggest difference between the hybrid and gasoline models?

Beyond the obvious fuel‑economy advantage, the hybrid’s electric motor provides smoother low‑speed acceleration and a quieter cabin. However, the hybrid carries a slightly higher price tag and a modestly reduced towing capacity.

Does the 2024 Highlander offer any off‑road capability?

While not a dedicated off‑roader, the Highlander’s AWD system with low‑traction mode can handle light snow and gravel roads. For serious off‑road use, a more rugged SUV would be advisable.