Toyota Highlander 2024 Review: Performance, Features, Safety | Motor Mastery

Welcome to Motor Mastery, your premier source for in-depth car reviews and expert automotive insights. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the Toyota Highlander, a midsize SUV that has become a favorite among families and adventure seekers alike. The 2024 Toyota Highlander continues to build on its reputation for reliability, comfort, and advanced technology. Whether you’re interested in performance, interior features, safety, or fuel efficiency, this comprehensive review will cover everything you need to know about the Toyota Highlander.

Overview of the Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander has been a popular choice in the midsize SUV category for many years, known for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and robust safety features. The 2024 model offers a versatile and well-rounded vehicle that caters to a wide range of needs, making it an excellent option for families and individuals looking for a reliable and capable SUV. With multiple trims and engine options, the Highlander is designed to meet the diverse preferences of today's drivers.

Performance and Engine Options

The 2024 Toyota Highlander offers a variety of powertrain options to suit different driving styles and needs. The standard engine is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides a balanced combination of power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and long highway trips.

For those who prioritize eco-friendly driving and superior fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is an excellent choice. The hybrid model features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 243 horsepower. The Highlander Hybrid is one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class, with an estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it perfect for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.

All 2024 Highlander models come equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission that ensures smooth and responsive shifting. The available all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability on various road conditions, making the Highlander capable of handling different terrains and weather situations.

For a detailed breakdown of the Toyota Highlander’s performance specifications, check out [Toyota's official website] or [Car and Driver's review of the Toyota Highlander].

Interior and Comfort

The 2024 Toyota Highlander is designed with a focus on comfort and convenience, making it an ideal vehicle for families and those who enjoy long drives. The Highlander's spacious interior can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers, thanks to its three-row seating configuration. The seats are designed for maximum comfort, with high-quality materials and ergonomic design providing support during long journeys.

The Highlander’s interior is packed with features that enhance the driving experience. Standard features include tri-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers and passengers to seamlessly connect their smartphones and access their favorite apps, music, and navigation.

Higher trims offer even more luxury features, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The second-row captain's chairs provide added comfort and make accessing the third row easier. Additionally, the Highlander offers a hands-free power liftgate, which is convenient for loading and unloading cargo.

For an in-depth look at the Toyota Highlander's interior features and comfort, visit [Edmunds' review].

Safety and Technology

Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the 2024 Highlander is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. Every Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+, a suite of safety technologies that includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Automatic High Beams.

The Highlander also offers several available safety features, such as Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Front and Rear Parking Assist, and a Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan, which provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle, making it easier to park and navigate tight spaces.

The Highlander’s advanced technology extends beyond safety features. The digital rearview mirror provides a wider field of view by displaying a camera feed from the rear of the vehicle. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster allows drivers to customize the information displayed, while the available JBL® premium audio system with 11 speakers delivers a high-quality sound experience.

To learn more about the Toyota Highlander's safety ratings and technology features, check out the [IIHS's safety review].

Fuel Efficiency

The 2024 Toyota Highlander is designed to offer both power and efficiency, making it an attractive option for those who want a capable SUV without compromising on fuel economy. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine achieves an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for a midsize SUV.

The Highlander Hybrid is even more impressive in terms of fuel efficiency, delivering an estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient options in the midsize SUV category, perfect for those who want to minimize their fuel costs and environmental impact.

To compare the Toyota Highlander's fuel efficiency with other SUVs, visit [Fuel Economy's comparison tool].

Trims and Pricing

The 2024 Toyota Highlander is available in several trims, each offering a unique set of features to cater to different preferences and budgets. The base L trim starts at around $36,000 and comes well-equipped with essential features like a 6-speaker audio system, LED headlights, and the Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ suite.

The LE trim, starting at approximately $38,000, adds more comfort and convenience features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a power liftgate. The XLE trim, priced from around $41,000, includes additional luxury features like leather-trimmed seats, a moonroof, and wireless smartphone charging.

For those seeking a more premium experience, the Limited trim starts at about $45,000 and offers features like a premium JBL® audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and second-row captain's chairs. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim, priced around $49,000, includes all the bells and whistles, such as a panoramic moonroof, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and adaptive headlights.

To explore the different trim levels and find the best fit for your needs, you can visit [Kelley Blue Book's review] for detailed pricing and feature comparisons.

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota Highlander is a versatile and well-rounded midsize SUV that offers a great combination of performance, comfort, advanced technology, and safety features. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vehicle with plenty of space and modern conveniences or an eco-friendly hybrid option with excellent fuel efficiency, the Highlander has something to offer.

At Motor Mastery, we believe the Toyota Highlander is a strong contender in the midsize SUV market, providing reliability, safety, and a host of features that cater to the needs of today's drivers. With its multiple trims and engine options, it’s easy to find the perfect Highlander to fit your lifestyle and budget.

For more in-depth car reviews and expert automotive insights, stay tuned to Motor Mastery. Visit our site to explore more vehicles and find the best fit for your driving needs.