Large SUVs are a popular choice for family road trips, offering ample passenger and cargo space. However, the need for frequent gas stops can disrupt the journey’s flow. Toyota’s 2024 Grand Highlander, a recent addition to the automaker’s lineup, must strike a balance between passenger capacity, load-carrying capability, overall range, and fuel efficiency. This balance is further emphasized in the case of the optional Hybrid Max engine.
The standard 2024 Grand Highlander features a conventional 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rates it at 24 mpg combined for the front-wheel drive variant or 23 mpg for the all-wheel drive version.
Toyota also offers a 2024 Grand Highlander Hybrid, equipped with a 2.5-liter gas engine coupled with electrification. This hybrid powertrain significantly improves fuel efficiency, achieving a rating of 36 mpg combined for the front-wheel drive model and 34 mpg for the all-wheel drive version.
However, for those seeking an extra dose of power, Toyota presents the Hybrid Max powertrain. Available on the highest trim levels of the Grand Highlander, this configuration combines a 2.4-liter turbo engine with a more robust electric motor setup and includes all-wheel drive as standard. Our 2024 Grand Highlander Hybrid Max review highlighted its enthusiastic performance on the road.
Yet, enhanced power comes at a cost to fuel economy. The Hybrid Max version of the Grand Highlander achieves EPA ratings of 26 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. With a full tank of gas, which holds 17.17 gallons in the Grand Highlander Hybrid Max, you can expect a range of 464 miles, according to the U.S. EPA.
Even with the additional power, the EPA’s calculations suggest that over five years, you’ll only spend $250 more on fuel costs for the Hybrid Max compared to the average new vehicle. These estimates are based on an annual driving distance of 15,000 miles, with 45% of the driving occurring on highways and 55% in urban areas. If your typical driving patterns differ from this standard, you can customize the calculations using the EPA’s Fuel Economy website.
Balancing Power and Efficiency
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max strikes a delicate balance between power and efficiency, catering to drivers who crave performance without compromising fuel economy entirely. This three-row SUV is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to delivering versatile options for drivers with varying needs.
With its robust 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and advanced electric motor setup, the Hybrid Max version of the Grand Highlander delivers spirited on-road performance. This combination of power and efficiency allows you to embark on longer journeys without constantly stopping for fuel, making it a practical choice for those who value both road-trip readiness and eco-friendliness.
Fuel Efficiency and Cost Savings
In an era of rising fuel costs and increasing environmental awareness, the Grand Highlander Hybrid Max offers a compelling value proposition. Despite its enhanced power, the SUV’s fuel efficiency remains competitive. Over a five-year period, you’ll only incur a modest $250 in additional fuel expenses compared to the average new vehicle, according to EPA estimates. This demonstrates that you can enjoy performance without breaking the bank at the gas station.
Customizable Efficiency
The EPA’s calculations are based on standard driving patterns, but Toyota understands that individual driving behaviors vary. Whether your daily commute primarily consists of highway cruising or city stop-and-go traffic, you can tailor your fuel efficiency expectations to match your real-world usage. The EPA’s Fuel Economy website allows you to customize these calculations, providing a more accurate estimate of your expected fuel costs.
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max combines power and efficiency in a way that caters to diverse driving preferences. With its robust engine, advanced hybrid technology, and impressive range, this SUV is well-equipped to tackle long road trips without frequent fuel stops. Moreover, its modest increase in fuel costs over five years compared to an average vehicle highlights its cost-effective approach to performance. As Toyota continues to offer versatile options, the Grand Highlander Hybrid Max stands out as a compelling choice for drivers seeking both power and efficiency in their family SUV.
