Just had my 2014 Prius serviced by AMD and his crew. It was a Total pleasure to meet and speak with Melanie and AMD, And, I know my service was done with integrity and care. Thank you to all that take great care of their customers at TCCN Automotive! Chuck
The person filming this video is doing an excellent job, zooming in when necessary and providing good views with camera positioning. Presenter is top notch as always!
I love all Toyota vehicles regardless. My old 2005 Sienna still runs great at 325k miles without having to rebuild or replace anything major (engine, transmission, AC, suspension, fuel system all original). Just purchased the new generation Hybrid Sienna and couldn’t be happier. 600-650 miles range on smaller fuel tank 18 gallons Vs 21 gallons.
I just purchased a 2024 Grand Highlander Limited Hybrid and I am very pleased. I have been driving a Honda Pilot last 6 years and 150K miles. Highlander is a very comfortable drive, lots of interior room. Very pleased.
We bought a 22 xse v6 highlander and a 22 Tundra, the highlander v6 I don’t worry about but the Tundra I do. I knew they were getting rid of the v6 so I think 22 is the best year to have in the highlander.
Thanks for the in-depth review! This is the info I want before I plunk down 5 figures, and they’re fun to watch with great info that goes well beyond basic car reviews… especially for those of us that keep cars 10-20 years.
Just found your channel this last week and I am hooked. I feel like I am talking to my uncles about what car I should drive. They way that you explain things is perfect, detailed and thorough by not so technical that I don’t know what it means to me. 💕👍
I'm so happy Toyota built this extended version of the Highlander. I don't know the price but with all the rear seats down it almost has the hauling capacity of a truck without the poor fuel mileage and at a lower cost. Eighty percent of the time I don't need a truck so this would fit me perfectly when I need to haul a bit more than my RAV4. It could be easily converted for use in car camping or placing a tent on top of the roof rails.
Excellent -- usual thorough review by TCCN. A terrific balance of technical expertise with practical insight. His astute observation that the aluminum knuckle may cause long term issues is spot on based on my unpleasant experience as a shade tree mechanic.
I love your straight forward reviews. Thanks for a great review. I actually own this 2024 Hybrid Max. There are features that even dealers don't know about. One feature is that the car reminds (with a long sound) that you left your phone inside your car. This SUV is no joke in terms of power especially when going up mountain roads - fully loaded. Hybrid Max runs on Full-Time Electronic All-Wheel Drive (AWD) which gives it an advantage compared to others. Looking forward this winter on how it performs with Nokian HAKKAPELIITTA 10SUV tires.
Honestly the grand highlander was a top contender for me to purchase but there is little inventory and every Toyota dealer in my area insist on listing pricing with a $5k or more “market adjustment” over MSRP. That is the primary reason I am no longer considering it. I actually like the new honda pilot more anyways and even though inventory is also limited, most honda dealers aren’t putting stupid market adjustments on it and you can get a reasonable deal.
Same boat here, actually found 2 pilots and agreed on a price for trailsport but now they refuse to sell to me because i wont buy the extended warranty . They know someone else will buy it so they will just wait.
@@alberttheelectricianbackup7878 that’s shitty! Still waiting on my TrailSport to deliver this month but the dealer has been great to work with. And my sister just bought a new HRV from them no issues. Not even pushy about the extended warranty when she said no.
@@SlyBSer they gave in . Im here purchasing it . Actually changed my mind from red one to light bluish one they had in showroom. Finally after looking for 2 months at 3 row midsize vehicles were getting one. Wife was being very picky since its replacing her 18 wrangler . Now i get the 18 and sell my older vehicle. Good luck to you . Vehicle looks and rides great.
Honda kept the V6. I would have bought the Grand Highlander with a V6 over Honda Pilot all day long but with small turbo 4 cylinder that makes less horse power than V6 Camry I'm not sure about it. A dearm Grand Highlander would be a V8 one with Toyota indistructible 5.7 liter.
A few quick comments as a mechanic and a 4th Gen Highlander owner. Turbos are hard on oil, DO NOT do the 10k mile oil changes, only very very limited conditions is that acceptable. Not particularly pleased with how they moved the direct injection on top, but it is what it is. I am vertically challenged as well, and working on anything towards the rear is much harder for us 😂. The 3rd row seats with regards to leg room is MUCH improved. This is why I love Toyota, very functional vehicles, extremely reliable. Thanks for a great video, blessing to you and yours my friend!!
I love my 23 xse, agree on the oil changes 100%, I wish Toyota had more accessory support for mine and led turn signals but small potatoes all things considered.
@@kenc2386 Toyota dealers DO NOT have your best interest at heart. They WANT your vehicle to break so you can pay them to fix it out of warranty. They WANT your vehicle to break down so they can sell you a new one. Oil and filters are cheap, new cars aren't. Change your oil and filter every 5K miles and be done with it.
My wife and I took a look at one last weekend at a dealership and we both like it. Appreciate the video, this answered some questions the salesperson couldn't.
@@aeneas116116 Me too. Most of them barely have a high school education either little interest to know the product: I would love to replace them, but unfortunately pay is crap.
Absolutely. Good question. A nearly 4600 pound, an almost full size SUV before it is loaded with passengers and their belongings. I shudder to think what adding something to tow like a small boat would do on that super sweet turbo four cylinder.. add the hot, summer heat with the a/c running too.
@@marcodarko6941 Agreed, small turbo engines seem to work okay in light sporty cars that are actually driven moderately 90% of the time and used for short periods of acceleration bursts and high speed so there's a lot of cooling going on. In low speed high load situations I imagine heat buildup stressing the turbo, engine internals and oil especially around the turbo bearings.
I agree the seats should have more room for something this big. Part of the issue is the huge center stack; it eats up all the knee room. I got into an early 2000s tundra not long ago and thought, man I miss all this open space. Now everything is like a damn cockpit.
as a young in the field toyota tech, i really appreciate these in depth looks at the new vehicles. the video format does a lot more for teaching me than the online learning modules do.
Great review and I like my Toyota hybrids, but for people considering this : I had to change the NiMH battery on my 2 Prius after some 100k to 120k km. Also, electric coolant pumps may be nice, but I had to have one changed after 160k km on my Prius C and the pump alone was 1k CAD. So quite happy this highlander has a mechanical one for the engine. Otherwise, very reliable vehicles and that's why I keep buying them.
I totally agree with you on the sienna over this. I currently own two siennas and they're just soooo much more functional than the highlander (or other SUV's). Esp the 3rd row.
I thought the same buying a mini van until I didn't need that much space anymore lol Grand Highlander offers reliability with space and with 8 inches of ground clearance can do some light trails... Now I regret buying the mini van... Sure the mini van offers the max space but I don't the max space... I need good enough space... Also, the Grand highlander has a wow factor in simplicity and doesn't look like a whale lol Another great and excellent pick which actually looks better and driver better than a the Grand Highlander is the new 2024 Honda Pilot..
.. I LOVE what you said about physical controls at 39:01.. I wish Toyota (and all other auto manufacturers) would just go back to physical controls and much more traditional designed dashboards..
I believe I heard Munro mention that one reason that front aluminum knuckles are prevelant, besides weight savings, is that aluminum breaks away in a collision in a way that steel doesn't.
I really appreciate your reviews and this one too. Somehow I cannot get excited over another even larger SUV. Maybe I’m old fashioned, but I miss the days when people drove cars, not trucks or SUVs. And minivans were a thing for hauling people and stuff, that also fit into a compact garage or parking space. Oh, how times have changed!
Your point about the essentially missing rear bumper is disturbing. No wonder insurance rates are skyrocketing. Despite all the fixation on crash testing for passenger safety, car makers and the government are completely abandoning the less dramatic but practical concerns about ownership cost from fender benders, etc. You did point out that at least in the front, they kept the sensor gear mounted high up behind the Toyota logo where it was less likely to be hit in a front bump. Of course, it could be embedded as part of a much larger assembly that can only be replaced en masse so that might be a wash as well.
People should be aware that these engines (including the non turbo ones) should at least get an oil change every 5k miles or 6 months, but most importantly if they want their Toyota to last or planing on keeping it for a long time DO NOT FOLLOW THE DEALERS INSTRUCTIONS ON FREE MAINTENANCE and you’ll notice after buying your new Toyota and taking it for the 5k miles maintenance they won’t change the oil until the vehicle is 10k miles which is unbelievable 🤯
Yes, AMD mentions this to what you have said many times on his videos. You should watch his other maintenance videos, it’s Very informative. Especially the video where he replaced a motor on a Camry. I worked on cars for over 20 years and AMD is definitely on point!☺️
I have a 2021 Highlander Platinum AWD V6. It’s a beautiful car, no glitches or wind noise. I would take a beating getting into the Grand Highlander as they give you terrible trade in value 3 years later. I think those engines in the Grand Highlander are too small and untested.. keeping my ‘21 although the extra room in the Grand is tempting. Great review!
I agree, I bought a 2021 platinum with the V6, I figured the turbos were coming. We looked at the 2021 Hybrid as well, but the lower tow capacity was a deal breaker.
Yeah that's the only thing about hybrids but the full gas aren't going to be any better with resale value since I trust the hybrid without a turbo which is the grand highlander without hybrid max its the same engine as the highlander hybrid. The gas with a turbo is going to have to much pressure in the engine.
I stopped working on my cars on the early 90s. I got bigger, engine compartments got smaller, and troubleshooting got complicated for a driveway mechanic. These days I watch your reviews to find a car that's not going to require crazy labor hours for simple repairs. A valve cover gasket replacement shouldn't involve pulling injectors.
Excellent excellent videos and I really enjoy watching/listening to your content. Your extensive knowledge is refreshing while looking at a car review, and your methodology is wonderful. Thank's so much!
An extremely interesting video on the 2024 Toyota Grand Highland. As I have mentioned to you before your technical knowledge of every single part of these vehicles is just amazing and very clear and easy to understand. I still think you need to write a series of school textbooks on vehicles in general. Please give some thought to that idea. Looking forward to the next video.
Love your car reviews. It's great how you cover the mechanical aspects, exterior styling, interior, and your opinions how the car's reliability down the road. I always watch your videos first!
Very informative video. Thank you sir. My wife and I are thinking about getting her a Grand Highlander, her mother has a Highlander and her sister has a regular Highlander as well and they both love them. I have a 23 limited Taco and love it. We are Toyota family and this hybrid really seems like it’s the real thing for her local driving.
TY confirmed my concern about that 4 cyl turbo alone being underpowered AND justifying hybridMAX. Cannot wait for your review on the TX. Can you sneak in the PHEV TX? 😂
So this is not a great motor for the size? I'm about to purchase a new vehicle and I am not sure between grand highlander, acura mdx, Honda pilot or pallasade
What octane fuel would you recommend for the Grand Highlander? I'm more concerned with fuel economy and long term performance of the car. Is it worth putting 89 or 91? Or can I just stick with 87?
I have a regular highlander with the T24. They did not tune the non-hybrid 2.4 turbo correctly. It is far to agressive on the tune to run 87 without pulling timing in the heat or with the AC on. It will surge and buck at medium load under 2200rpm. There is a very noticeable hesitation on take off. 91+ fixes all these issues.
Glad I got grand highlander hybrid and not hybrid max since regular grand hybrid doesn't have a turbo on the engine. Hybrid max has too much going on, a turbo plus hybrid is too much on the engine even with hybrid together.
@@robmalcolm8042the max is the only way to go on the GH. The normal powertrain is 2nd, but the standard hybrid is a complete dog. 240hp and sub 200lb/ft is not enough to move that around. The formentioned issue was resolved by toyota finally and it runs great now, but HMax was never affected
@@Suction_ maybe so I'll see for myself when we get it but the Max has a turbo plus hybrid it has too much going on even if the base hybrid is slower the power train is more durable than regular gas turbo or hybrid max. The regular hybrid is the same power train from the regular highlander
@@robmalcolm8042 I know where you're coming from. But what I will never understand is why people forget who we're talking about. It's Toyota. Their entire montra is about longevity. Everyone saying it's going to be junk truely doesn't understand the lengths they went through to get it as robust as possible. They're spending well over a million an hour on R&D and settled on just a few different powertrains that they put in everything. You want to tell me this would be junk in a ford or GM? Sure I'd believe you. But Toyota? The last bad powertrain they really made was the 2az and the first year run of the 3.4TT, which both have identifiable problems. The t24 in this is based on the a25 which is in everything - last I saw they've made close to 3 million of those world wide.
@Suction_ yea of course they still have the least likely chance of it being that bad but in the long term I doubt any turbo will last a super long time. It'll probably just last longer than everyone else's version of that.
Always been a fan of mini-vans. Most efficient package for hauling people and stuff. My better half is not having it. The Grand Highlander looks like a great alternative...agree. The hybrid max system seems to perform very well and it's Toyota so should be reliable.
Always enjoy your vehicle reviews. We get more insight than other reviewers give us. 👍🏼I would be interested in a Mercedes Benz GLE 450 review from you.
We looked at the Palisade, Telluride, Grand Highlander, and the CX-90. After sitting in and driving all of the them, this definitely came out on the bottom. I think if we wanted to keep it for 12-15 years, then this would be the easy choice, but we only own cards for 6-8 years so I have no issues going with a Palisade that is so much more luxurious and comfortable to drive.
Thank you for the detailed review! I still have a 2016 V6 Sienna XLE (bought new) , but just ordered the new grand HighlanderXLE 2.4 for our family of 6. The kids feel they have outgrown the Sienna. We still hope to do short family trips around the Northeast region and Canada. Within 5 years I’ll get rid of both once the kids are out of college and buy something fun. If you don’t have a family why even compare this type of car to a sports car. If you find this car boring then just move along.
Thank you so much for such an in-depth review! I have been stalking this vehicle since January and really enjoy your insight from a mechanic’s perspective! I have a 2018 4Runner that I absolutely love and am terrified to get rid of but I need more space for my family, so a review like this really helps me determine if I keep my 4Runner or have found a good replacement better suited to my family’s needs!
It is refreshing to come across an honest dealership mechanic that speaks the truth. Please add to your car reviews what the horsepower and torque is for the various options as well as the msrp if your reviewing new vehicles and the channel is PERFECT 😊
Great video! Just one disagreement concerning your conclusion that the Sienna is more sensible than Grand Highland aside from the Hybrid Max. Having test driven one of these, the Grand Highlander is much more comfortable and roomy than the Sienna and has better a better tech package. For someone who is taller, the Grand Highlander will be considerably more comfortable than the Sienna, especially for longer trips. Just figured I’d offer that different perspective. 😊
More comfortable and roomy? That's not what all the reviews are saying. Are you talking about the driver seat specifically? For 2nd and 3rd row seats the advantage goes to the Sienna for sure. What is different about the driver seat on the GH? I'm 6'4" and would like to know. Thanks!
Yes, for the driver’s seat. My apologies for not being more clear. You are correct that the passenger section in the Sienna is larger and more spacious. At 6’3”, I found the GH driver’s seat to be wider and more comfortable than the Sienna. Also recently learned the Sienna’s hybrid battery sits below the front seats which moves the driver seat a bit higher than older generations. I didn’t measure but I believe you can move the GH seat lower which provides more headroom for those with longer torsos. Personally, I also felt the steering wheel position to be more comfortable and than the Sienna but I realize that’s a personal preference. Hope this perspective helps!
Thanks for the review - I really like this vehicle. I do agree that the seats look narrow. Also, it didn't look like you had a ton of extra legroom, and I'm 6' 1" and when I set the driver seat for me, my knees were hitting the driver seat. So I got back in and readjusted the driver's seat a bit closer than I'd like, and now I had maybe 2" of legroom left. I wish the 2nd row seat could slide further back because we will only occasionally use the 3rd row.
Thank you for the thorough video! Regarding hybrid engines, is there any concern of no/minimal opportunity for the (gas) engine to "warm up" ? Conceivably you could drive a hybrid for 30 minutes in town, then hop on the freeway and do 70. Did the engine just go from sleeping to sprinting??
AMD, you are forgetting towing and a non hybrid model on advantages over the Sienna. I consider the hybrid an advantage, but many do not (their loss), but this is rating to tow 5000 lb vs 3500 for the Sienna, and for some, that little extra capacity is needed for a camper.
I have heard a-lot of complaints regarding the flimsy hood. Many owners find that the rear of the hood towards the windshield vibrates and flutters at highway speeds causing a significant distraction while driving. Dealer’s response is the hood is aluminum and this is normal. Folks have adjusted the front under-hood frame bumpers up but it does not resolve the issue. Has Toyota ever heard of stringers? A couple of metal strips in this case likely glued to the bottom of the hood to stiffen the unstable area. Used all over in an airplane albeit usually riveted for installation. Count me out until this issue and other tin canning body panels are properly reinforced.
Just the other day I went to my dealer to willingly change first oil after 3k km in my new Corolla 2.0 hybrid. 3 (in word "three") technics at the desk looked at me in shock what the heck and why I want to do that, that the engine doesnt need it and who I got that idea from :D
Thanks for this video, i have the gas highlander....think, I will keep it. Nice SUV, for sure. I own a '23 Rav4 Limited Hybrid and I find the console screen too high and too busy. Dealing with this screen is worse than trying to dial a phone number going down the streets. It is not safe, having to operate these consoles. Like to remove lot of the stuff on my console, I do not use. Now, map cost and on my van they did not.
I am a huge fan of your videos--and I don't even drive! That said, I have a small suggestion: at 33:11 you use the word "thrills". I think the more accurate word is "frills," as in "no gimmicks, no frills." Keep up the great work!
As a tire technician, I hate wheel bolts or lugstuds, as we call them. Most European vehicles and some Chrysler vehicles have them. They are a major pain to deal with when changing tires or rotating tires. If one is missing we can't replace them. If the threads inside the rotor are messed up, you have to replace the whole rotor, not just one stud.
Could you do an updated video on known issues with the Grand Highlander? I had some work done to my Camry recently and mentioned we were interested in them and the service leader told me not to get it because they were having lots of issues.
I have a sienna, my complaint is not the power, it’s the suspension that should be air suspension. No none-adjustable is acceptable on a vehicule that can have 1 passager in the morning and 7 with luggage in the afternoon. My father had an air suspension on a Chevrolet Venture back in 1997….
Been waiting a long time for this video! You definitely did it justice. I now xant wait until you get a hold of the TX 550h+. The combination of the 2gr with a bigger battery pack with 400+ hp just seems perfect
Im also waiting on the TX550h+. It should be a much better vehicle all together since it will have a naturally aspirated V6 engine. No need to worry about the turbo. The only concern will be the tag price for it.
For me this is a youtube #1 TRUE GUY REVIEWER. Go straight to the point, how engine, transmission, suspension work and dont work. Reability, Design and buid. I dont care about plastic and touchscreen reviewer!!!!
Excellent review and I appreciate the comparison to the Sienna. However, I think I'm going to stick to looking for one of these as I'm also in construction and like the additional ground clearance for when I have to drive onto a job site. Now, if I could just find one for sale in So Cal where the dealers aren't adding their greedy "market adjustment"...
The more i look at the US car market, the more I'm weirded out by how your dealers can do things that will not be acceptable in other countries. Why can't they just sell these cars at the designated price like everybody else in the world?
I’m in SoCal too. Longo Toyota is not doing markups, selling at MSRP, just long waitlists like 6 months but depends on configuration. Claremont Toyota is also good, and there markups aren’t nearly as bad as other SoCal dealers at 3-4k, most are doing at least 5-7k.
It’s an unfortunate side effect of a free market. I’ve also noticed how the companies that distribute new Toyota’s in the US are also adding additional items to the sticker to bump up their profits before the vehicle even arrives at the dealership making them even more expensive here.
The two hinges on the rear door is great, our Sienna has one and the door has twisted before on that single powered hinge and required a ton of money and time to fix. Also SPARE TIRE! yes! Run flats are terrible.
Been waiting for this video! I got my xle hybrid 2 weeks ago and so far love it. I chose this model because it doesn’t have turbo and uses the same engine in highlanders for years. I was concerned about buying 1st model but having used the same engine and not turbo really helped assuage those concerns. Additionally, I actually canceled my order for the 2023 highlander for this gh because 1. Third row is usable for people and car camping! 2. No cablegate concerns as the cords are covered underneath while the orange cords under regular highlander is totally exposed. 3. This xle hybrid has great mpg: I am getting 38-40 with both city and highway Probably is not as strong as v6 my 2012 sienna with 225k but we will see. Still getting used to parking it having driven rav4 everyday….glad I have habit of parking where I get most exercise ;)
I have a 2024 Grand Highlander non-hybrid. Did you say not to wait until 10k miles for an oil change? Should I do it every 5k miles like I am used too for my other cars?
They key here for oil changes is the turbo. Any car with a turbo should not be doing 10,000 mile oil changes even with synthetic. Synthetic oil is mandatory with small turbo's. A small turbo is any turbo smaller than a semi truck turbo. Many manufacturers recommend regular 3,000 mile oil changes with the turbo. With a good synthetic oil you can probably push 5,000 miles but I probably wouldn't go beyond that for light use. Heavy use, like towing or load hauling gets 3000 mile with synthetic oil changes. Almost any newer car without a turbo can do 10,000 mile oil change though I only push my cars to 7,000 miles even with synthetic. I regularly check my oil as well for level and color. I highly recommend everyone check their oil once a month. If the color suddenly changes, get it to your mechanic right away. You might save it's life and a ton of money.
@@andersonrodriguez8258 lol I disagree and oil testing will prove me right. None of my cars use any oil aside from the 2009 turbo Subaru but the Subaru is a different animal with its own set of challenges. The rest are heading towards 200k with no oil use issues which is saying something when you consider all the newer cars with oil use issues that are not even remotely related to oil changes. This channel has even talked about that specifically. Also consider some of the abused cars that have made it to 100k without any oil changes. Sure their oil looks like gloppy molasses but clean it out and put new oil in and they run decently. Fact is the drivetrain on cars is pretty these days and oil quality is way higher than it used to be. With good oil you could easily do 20,000 miles so 10k is just a really safe margin.
@@consaka1 However, like TCCN and Scotty say, oil & filters are cheap, engines are expensive. Just change it every six-months or 5,000 miles, whichever occurs first and you will be fine.
Purchased a certified pre owned Sienna in 2017 absolutely loved it until it was totaled by driving through a flooded street! Ground clearance is now a top priority ! Sights are set on a Grand Highlander.
Thanks for your interesting review! Toyota, at large, and this vehicle, in particular, are excellent vehicles; yet, they are too expensive and overpriced - not affordable for our family! Currently, most Toyota dealer's are adding market adjustments $$$$, add-ons $$$, and fees $$$ onto their asking prices...
In this class of vehicle, there is no "budget-friendly" option. I think the lowest trim gas model is 45k. Pilot / Telluride / Palisade / CX-90 are all the same or higher.
You're the only person I've seen even mention the AC vents in the 3rd row! I haven't seen that on any other similar vehicles, and I'm looking at a 3 row SUV cause I'm not interested in a minivan, so this grand highlander is on the top of my list
Check out the Hyundai Palisade….same 2nd and 3rd row overhead vents…not to mention a much more plush interior….including 2nd row heated and cooled seats, and even 3rd row heated seats.
Great review AMD. I am excited about the potential for this model. I know you always mention the aluminum knuckles on the suspension. Aluminum is a good choice for dissipating heat and this configuration may pull heat away from the brakes and the wheel bearings. So while it may weld itself to the wheel at some point, before it does that it may be extending the life of other moving components that are generating heat during normal operation. Toyota uses this material for the knuckles in all their vehicles that I know of so there may be more than one reason why that they use it.
Really good review! I like the mechanical explanations, we dont see that often anymore and it's so important I think when shopping for a vehicule. Only thing I can say is when you compared it to the Sienna at the end, I think you forgot the actual only factor I think that makes it different to the swagger wagon, the towing capacity! Isn't it 5000lbs on the Grand Highlander? I know the Sienna is 3500lbs of towing capacity and for me, it's the actual reason why I could seek one more than the other. Cheers!
Thank you for another great review, AMD!! In my opinion, putting price & functionalities & technology aside, it comes down to "Image" (Grand SUV vs. Minivan ). P.S. Still planning to swing-by your shop one day just to say Hello 👍
First, I think the Toyota officials should and would be very happy to watch your informative videos. I was looking for a family car and was thinking of Sienna or the regular Highlander hybrid XLE trim. I watched your other video on the Sienna and now have a more clear view of which path I am taking. Thank you for providing such original reviews. You are the king of the mechanics!
So my 2017 Lexus RX350 V6 recommends premium (not requires) yet it has the same engine as the Toyota highlander that recommends Regular, why would Toyota recommend premium when it’s the same engine?
I have a 2015 Toyota Highlander with the 3.5l engine and the 6 speed auto transmission. That was the best engine/transmission combination. Toyota should have kept them, very strong and reliable. I have 180000km/112000miles it runs like new. I will drive this car for the next 30 years I don't like all the new hybrid systems and CVTs. Especially since I retired recently and I'm only driving 5000 km/3000miles per year so all that extra hybrid expense doesn't make sense for me. EVs are not there yet.
I have a 2013 Highlander. It has 104,000. I am 75-years old. I am not sure whether the Highlander or I will go first. I will not buy anything to replace it, unless it becomes unreliable.
I am sure its a champ. I see a lot of those still on the road in great shape.. even first and second generations sometimes that appear to be holding up quite well.@@kennethabarnhart I have a 2016 Limited and looked at the 2023 model last spring.. just out of curiousity as I am very satisfied with what I have. It felt so thin and flimsy, chintzy then add in a four cylinder.. no thank you. I will pass.
If the MPG is roughly equal, then why was the V-6 Cancelled? My V-6 does an average of 22MPG and has a known fantastic reliability, track record. Why fix what isn’t broken????
Non hybrid non electric. Thank you Toyota for keeping it simple and reliable. This is why I always keep 1 Toyota in the garage at all times. Great review as well thank you. Love the channel.
Toyota hybrids are super reliable too. Between 250,000 and 300,000 miles they will last. If you replace the battery with an oem one you might be able to get it to last twice that. But it cost like $5000 for battery and labor. And if you live in a cold climate where they salt the roads, the frame might be the first thing that goes before even the battery.
I think the brake light feature on the screen is for the auto parking brake. It will automatically disengage when you press the gas again and then reengage when you stop. So seeing the red on the screen is reassuring and reminding you the brakes are applied.
the regular hybrid has a gas gage issue on some, that is about it. The max hybrid may have a jumping transmission issue, as gas gage issue as well as get less mpg than they estimated. Radiator on all might be getting hit by small rocks.
I have driven one of these and got it up to a good speed and applied the breaks as if to avoid a rear ender…and it did not stop the vehicle. I felt as if the breaks were not built for this considerably heavier grand highlander. I did not like that feeling. Refused to purchase it.
@@consaka1do you really think when this car is fully loaded it can safely stop with standard brakes with dual piston and single piston in the back from highlander? Highlander is lighter which makes sense but this should used brakes from land cruisier 300 /Tundra. Take your family and load up the trunk and stop i will see how you be defending this car
He hits on what I was concerned about - the regular hybrid being underpowered for that size of a vehicle when loaded down. Holding out hope for a Prime version to offer power and similar efficiency
The added horsepower of the Hybrid Max is enough, check the horsepower rating and torque below: For the family driver, the allure of the Grand Highlander rests with the new Hybrid Max powertrain. As the most powerful Toyota midsize SUV ever, it can rush from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds. Grand Highlander Hybrid Max powertrains generate 362 horsepower with 400 lb. -ft of torque.
We just got the regular hybrid 2024 Grand Highlander and it seems to have better pickup than the gas, even with lower horsepower. I think the battery makes a big difference from a stop. And with hopes to get 37MPG in town, its now my goal. Too bad we do more highway driving, but 34 isnt too shabby either
@@jlwhein1779 Same drivetrain as my 2023 Lexus ES300h (I believe) and I get 43+ MPG in the city; however, she does weigh less than your Highlander. Love the hybrid system. See my comment below and change that oil & filter regularly (every six-months or 5,000 miles, whichever occurs first) just like TCCN and Scotty Kilmer recommend.
The regular hybrid is proven and reliable for last 20 years... The hybrid max is an experiment with turbos and new engine setup that no track record (turbos tend to expensive part that wears out overtime). I would go with the regular hybrid...
Just had my 2014 Prius serviced by AMD and his crew. It was a Total pleasure to meet and speak with Melanie and AMD, And, I know my service was done with integrity and care. Thank you to all that take great care of their customers at TCCN Automotive! Chuck
916commons you're so lucky to have a *Toyota* *Lexus* *Master* *Technician* in your area like *Ahmed* 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
I wish I was near so I can bring all my Yota's to his garage
@@nokianx400 I wish I was near so I could go to work for him……..Im a long time mechanic and could learn lots from him.
@@jasonyurrrr9994amd is the car care nut
he is the best!!
Absolutely no one does under hood explanations better. Thanks.
Most car reviewers are drivers who might struggle to figure out the oil change process. Car care nut is a real mechanic.
The person filming this video is doing an excellent job, zooming in when necessary and providing good views with camera positioning. Presenter is top notch as always!
This is by far the only reviewer who is worth watching before and after buying a Toyota! Or any car for that matter!
So glad I purchases my 2022 Toyota Highlander Limited AWD with the 295 HP V6 while they were still available. Smooth as butter!
You still like it?
How’s the 8 soeed
Yea, V6 down to a punky 4.
I love all Toyota vehicles regardless. My old 2005 Sienna still runs great at 325k miles without having to rebuild or replace anything major (engine, transmission, AC, suspension, fuel system all original). Just purchased the new generation Hybrid Sienna and couldn’t be happier. 600-650 miles range on smaller fuel tank 18 gallons Vs 21 gallons.
Best vehicles ever made was yours awd
My 2007 is a gas guzzler in today's standard. 19 MPG👎. But I drive it as a backup vehicle.
Yes, yet they are no longer affordable for the "common" or "budget-restricted" family.
I hope you've replaced the timing belt on the 05, because it was still an interference engine which will be damaged when the belt breaks.
Vice grip garaged
I just purchased a 2024 Grand Highlander Limited Hybrid and I am very pleased. I have been driving a Honda Pilot last 6 years and 150K miles. Highlander is a very comfortable drive, lots of interior room. Very pleased.
Did your transmission fail in the pilot? Mine did at 150k 😢
How is the cabin noise? I heard toyotas have a lot of wind and road noise
8 months later, do you still like it?
how is the power of the limited without the max for your highlander when it is loaded?
@@saurabhbhalla90they do.......test drove one the other day and the noise was so loud, I thought something was wrong with the vehicle
This by far the best video i have seen on Grand highlander, very well done 👍
We bought a 22 xse v6 highlander and a 22 Tundra, the highlander v6 I don’t worry about but the Tundra I do. I knew they were getting rid of the v6 so I think 22 is the best year to have in the highlander.
ruclips.net/video/PL1h0IKtMjQ/видео.html&ab_channel=TheCarCareNut
Thanks for the in-depth review! This is the info I want before I plunk down 5 figures, and they’re fun to watch with great info that goes well beyond basic car reviews… especially for those of us that keep cars 10-20 years.
Just found your channel this last week and I am hooked. I feel like I am talking to my uncles about what car I should drive. They way that you explain things is perfect, detailed and thorough by not so technical that I don’t know what it means to me. 💕👍
I'm so happy Toyota built this extended version of the Highlander. I don't know the price but with all the rear seats down it almost has the hauling capacity of a truck without the poor fuel mileage and at a lower cost. Eighty percent of the time I don't need a truck so this would fit me perfectly when I need to haul a bit more than my RAV4. It could be easily converted for use in car camping or placing a tent on top of the roof rails.
The way you explain everything in details your channel deserves more subscribers.
Excellent -- usual thorough review by TCCN. A terrific balance of technical expertise with practical insight. His astute observation that the aluminum knuckle may cause long term issues is spot on based on my unpleasant experience as a shade tree mechanic.
I love your straight forward reviews. Thanks for a great review. I actually own this 2024 Hybrid Max. There are features that even dealers don't know about. One feature is that the car reminds (with a long sound) that you left your phone inside your car. This SUV is no joke in terms of power especially when going up mountain roads - fully loaded. Hybrid Max runs on Full-Time Electronic All-Wheel Drive (AWD) which gives it an advantage compared to others. Looking forward this winter on how it performs with Nokian HAKKAPELIITTA 10SUV tires.
When this is new things are going to work just fine. After 4 years not so sure everything is going to be ok.
Honestly the grand highlander was a top contender for me to purchase but there is little inventory and every Toyota dealer in my area insist on listing pricing with a $5k or more “market adjustment” over MSRP. That is the primary reason I am no longer considering it. I actually like the new honda pilot more anyways and even though inventory is also limited, most honda dealers aren’t putting stupid market adjustments on it and you can get a reasonable deal.
Same boat here, actually found 2 pilots and agreed on a price for trailsport but now they refuse to sell to me because i wont buy the extended warranty .
They know someone else will buy it so they will just wait.
@@alberttheelectricianbackup7878 that’s shitty! Still waiting on my TrailSport to deliver this month but the dealer has been great to work with. And my sister just bought a new HRV from them no issues. Not even pushy about the extended warranty when she said no.
@@SlyBSer they gave in . Im here purchasing it . Actually changed my mind from red one to light bluish one they had in showroom. Finally after looking for 2 months at 3 row midsize vehicles were getting one. Wife was being very picky since its replacing her 18 wrangler . Now i get the 18 and sell my older vehicle. Good luck to you . Vehicle looks and rides great.
Honda kept the V6. I would have bought the Grand Highlander with a V6 over Honda Pilot all day long but with small turbo 4 cylinder that makes less horse power than V6 Camry I'm not sure about it. A dearm Grand Highlander would be a V8 one with Toyota indistructible 5.7 liter.
New pilot with hybrid performance power training would we the clear winner in my book
A few quick comments as a mechanic and a 4th Gen Highlander owner. Turbos are hard on oil, DO NOT do the 10k mile oil changes, only very very limited conditions is that acceptable. Not particularly pleased with how they moved the direct injection on top, but it is what it is. I am vertically challenged as well, and working on anything towards the rear is much harder for us 😂. The 3rd row seats with regards to leg room is MUCH improved. This is why I love Toyota, very functional vehicles, extremely reliable. Thanks for a great video, blessing to you and yours my friend!!
I love my 23 xse, agree on the oil changes 100%, I wish Toyota had more accessory support for mine and led turn signals but small potatoes all things considered.
10k oil change intervals are NEVER acceptable on ANY ICE vehicle.
Does the Toyota dealer even acknowledge anything besides 10k maintenance? You would have to argue with the dealer on each visit of your new car.
@@kenc2386why would a dealer argue with you when you're paying them to change the oil?
@@kenc2386 Toyota dealers DO NOT have your best interest at heart. They WANT your vehicle to break so you can pay them to fix it out of warranty. They WANT your vehicle to break down so they can sell you a new one. Oil and filters are cheap, new cars aren't. Change your oil and filter every 5K miles and be done with it.
My wife and I took a look at one last weekend at a dealership and we both like it. Appreciate the video, this answered some questions the salesperson couldn't.
Which was probably a lot. lol Most of them are technically clueless.
I a, amazed by how little sales people know. Wish Toyota did a direct to co Sumer sales and skip the dealer ship
@@aeneas116116 Me too. Most of them barely have a high school education either little interest to know the product: I would love to replace them, but unfortunately pay is crap.
4 Cylinder in that large vehicle as a family hauler? May have a turbo but only time will tell how load and strain will take its toll on that engine.
Yeah. No thanks
Yeah that's why the regular hybrid is a better option no turbo in it and the hybrid will power it as well as a v6
Yeah I'd rather get a naturally aspirated engine at that point then...
Yeah, no. That’s why you’re buying a Toyota. You’ll never worry about it.
With all that new tech in those engines, I want to see what the maintenance is like when these cars get 100k or so miles on them.
Absolutely. Good question.
A nearly 4600 pound, an almost full size SUV before it is loaded with passengers and their belongings.
I shudder to think what adding something to tow like a small boat would do on that super sweet turbo four cylinder.. add the hot, summer heat with the a/c running too.
@@marcodarko6941 Agreed, small turbo engines seem to work okay in light sporty cars that are actually driven moderately 90% of the time and used for short periods of acceleration bursts and high speed so there's a lot of cooling going on. In low speed high load situations I imagine heat buildup stressing the turbo, engine internals and oil especially around the turbo bearings.
You throw theses new cars away just as it's barely paid off just to go get s new one for a other monthly payment of 999$
@@omieyouknowme 🤣😂😆👏👏👏
Yeah thats why the middle option regular hybrid from the original higblander to me is the best option
Great review. I'll take the ground clearance of this all day over the Sienna. That's a real factor for people like me living in snow country.
Yeah, it's not much more though. 1.5" I think.
I agree the seats should have more room for something this big. Part of the issue is the huge center stack; it eats up all the knee room. I got into an early 2000s tundra not long ago and thought, man I miss all this open space. Now everything is like a damn cockpit.
you said it. same with the Lexus. not much room. big ass center stack. miss my 08 chevy lol
These consoles that intrude on the lateral knee room drive me nuts. I can't drive most new vehicles.
Are you 8ft tall because I’ve seen a 6’5 guy did a review he sit comfortably even in the 3rd row seat
@@321thachthanks for that. I'm also 6'5"
Completely agree ! Just test drove Lexus Tx
as a young in the field toyota tech, i really appreciate these in depth looks at the new vehicles. the video format does a lot more for teaching me than the online learning modules do.
you might want to look into a better paying job than dealership mechanic. ive heard a lot of horror stories
Great review and I like my Toyota hybrids, but for people considering this :
I had to change the NiMH battery on my 2 Prius after some 100k to 120k km. Also, electric coolant pumps may be nice, but I had to have one changed after 160k km on my Prius C and the pump alone was 1k CAD. So quite happy this highlander has a mechanical one for the engine. Otherwise, very reliable vehicles and that's why I keep buying them.
How is this Grand Highlander non hybrid compared to the new Honda pilot? In terms of long term reliability and ease of maintenance etc?
This is my biggest factor in which I will purchase. I need a reliable motor that will last 250k miles with little issues
I love the technical highlights. There's more to buying a car than how big the screens are or how many cupholders there are
I totally agree with you on the sienna over this. I currently own two siennas and they're just soooo much more functional than the highlander (or other SUV's). Esp the 3rd row.
I would generally agree with you but the Grand Highlander's second row folds flat very easily and that cannot be said of the Sienna.
I thought the same buying a mini van until I didn't need that much space anymore lol Grand Highlander offers reliability with space and with 8 inches of ground clearance can do some light trails... Now I regret buying the mini van... Sure the mini van offers the max space but I don't the max space... I need good enough space... Also, the Grand highlander has a wow factor in simplicity and doesn't look like a whale lol
Another great and excellent pick which actually looks better and driver better than a the Grand Highlander is the new 2024 Honda Pilot..
Yeah but sienna has low clearance so that can be bad in snowy or stormy places with alot of rain. Doesn't take that into consideration.
.. I LOVE what you said about physical controls at 39:01.. I wish Toyota (and all other auto manufacturers) would just go back to physical controls and much more traditional designed dashboards..
I believe I heard Munro mention that one reason that front aluminum knuckles are prevelant, besides weight savings, is that aluminum breaks away in a collision in a way that steel doesn't.
I had to stop the video and admire that big tundra behind you she looks good brother
I really appreciate your reviews and this one too. Somehow I cannot get excited over another even larger SUV. Maybe I’m old fashioned, but I miss the days when people drove cars, not trucks or SUVs. And minivans were a thing for hauling people and stuff, that also fit into a compact garage or parking space. Oh, how times have changed!
Come to Europe, it's physically impossible to fit such a large SUV in most places lol
Large? This thing wouldn't even be considered a large car. In fact that's all it is is a car.
@@lexusguy9127 yeah I remember visiting Canada and felt like I was in the land of giants with all these hunungous trucks everywhere xD
That's because they stuffed their kids in the back with no seat belts! 😂
Your point about the essentially missing rear bumper is disturbing. No wonder insurance rates are skyrocketing. Despite all the fixation on crash testing for passenger safety, car makers and the government are completely abandoning the less dramatic but practical concerns about ownership cost from fender benders, etc. You did point out that at least in the front, they kept the sensor gear mounted high up behind the Toyota logo where it was less likely to be hit in a front bump. Of course, it could be embedded as part of a much larger assembly that can only be replaced en masse so that might be a wash as well.
People should be aware that these engines (including the non turbo ones) should at least get an oil change every 5k miles or 6 months, but most importantly if they want their Toyota to last or planing on keeping it for a long time DO NOT FOLLOW THE DEALERS INSTRUCTIONS ON FREE MAINTENANCE and you’ll notice after buying your new Toyota and taking it for the 5k miles maintenance they won’t change the oil until the vehicle is 10k miles which is unbelievable 🤯
Yes, AMD mentions this to what you have said many times on his videos. You should watch his other maintenance videos, it’s Very informative. Especially the video where he replaced a motor on a Camry. I worked on cars for over 20 years and AMD is definitely on point!☺️
So you tell the dealer to change it at 5k. Whats the problem?
@lexusguy9127 for 2 years when bought new the oil changes are free
I have heard some owners changing their oil at 5k miles and not resetting the maintenance and then bringing it in at “10k”
@@JH-tg3qg And?
Thank you for the good work. I bought a Lexus RX350h , you convinced me to switch to japanese cars .شكرا
Unfortunately the Grand Highlander is made in USA. It is NOT a Japanese quality vehicle
Thank you the only guy out there giving us the technical details that matter, great stuff explained very clearly.
This is the first time i watched your video, and i love it . I really appreciate the honest details provided so elegantly.
Sounds like you should write the commercial for this.
“Everything you need and nothing you don’t” 😊
These reviews are so detailed!!!! Amazingly done! Thank you truly from WA, USA
I have a 2021 Highlander Platinum AWD V6. It’s a beautiful car, no glitches or wind noise. I would take a beating getting into the Grand Highlander as they give you terrible trade in value 3 years later. I think those engines in the Grand Highlander are too small and untested..
keeping my ‘21 although the extra room in the Grand is tempting. Great review!
I agree, I bought a 2021 platinum with the V6, I figured the turbos were coming. We looked at the 2021 Hybrid as well, but the lower tow capacity was a deal breaker.
Yeah that's the only thing about hybrids but the full gas aren't going to be any better with resale value since I trust the hybrid without a turbo which is the grand highlander without hybrid max its the same engine as the highlander hybrid. The gas with a turbo is going to have to much pressure in the engine.
I stopped working on my cars on the early 90s. I got bigger, engine compartments got smaller, and troubleshooting got complicated for a driveway mechanic. These days I watch your reviews to find a car that's not going to require crazy labor hours for simple repairs. A valve cover gasket replacement shouldn't involve pulling injectors.
Excellent excellent videos and I really enjoy watching/listening to your content. Your extensive knowledge is refreshing while looking at a car review, and your methodology is wonderful. Thank's so much!
An extremely interesting video on the 2024 Toyota Grand Highland. As I have mentioned to you before your technical knowledge of every single part of these vehicles is just amazing and very clear and easy to understand. I still think you need to write a series of school textbooks on vehicles in general. Please give some thought to that idea. Looking forward to the next video.
Love your car reviews. It's great how you cover the mechanical aspects, exterior styling, interior, and your opinions how the car's reliability down the road. I always watch your videos first!
Very informative video. Thank you sir. My wife and I are thinking about getting her a Grand Highlander, her mother has a Highlander and her sister has a regular Highlander as well and they both love them. I have a 23 limited Taco and love it. We are Toyota family and this hybrid really seems like it’s the real thing for her local driving.
TY confirmed my concern about that 4 cyl turbo alone being underpowered AND justifying hybridMAX. Cannot wait for your review on the TX. Can you sneak in the PHEV TX? 😂
So this is not a great motor for the size? I'm about to purchase a new vehicle and I am not sure between grand highlander, acura mdx, Honda pilot or pallasade
What octane fuel would you recommend for the Grand Highlander? I'm more concerned with fuel economy and long term performance of the car. Is it worth putting 89 or 91? Or can I just stick with 87?
Car is tuned for 87. You can use 93 but you’re just wasting your money
I have a regular highlander with the T24. They did not tune the non-hybrid 2.4 turbo correctly. It is far to agressive on the tune to run 87 without pulling timing in the heat or with the AC on. It will surge and buck at medium load under 2200rpm. There is a very noticeable hesitation on take off. 91+ fixes all these issues.
Glad I got grand highlander hybrid and not hybrid max since regular grand hybrid doesn't have a turbo on the engine. Hybrid max has too much going on, a turbo plus hybrid is too much on the engine even with hybrid together.
@@robmalcolm8042the max is the only way to go on the GH. The normal powertrain is 2nd, but the standard hybrid is a complete dog. 240hp and sub 200lb/ft is not enough to move that around. The formentioned issue was resolved by toyota finally and it runs great now, but HMax was never affected
@@Suction_ maybe so I'll see for myself when we get it but the Max has a turbo plus hybrid it has too much going on even if the base hybrid is slower the power train is more durable than regular gas turbo or hybrid max. The regular hybrid is the same power train from the regular highlander
@@robmalcolm8042 I know where you're coming from. But what I will never understand is why people forget who we're talking about. It's Toyota. Their entire montra is about longevity. Everyone saying it's going to be junk truely doesn't understand the lengths they went through to get it as robust as possible. They're spending well over a million an hour on R&D and settled on just a few different powertrains that they put in everything. You want to tell me this would be junk in a ford or GM? Sure I'd believe you. But Toyota? The last bad powertrain they really made was the 2az and the first year run of the 3.4TT, which both have identifiable problems. The t24 in this is based on the a25 which is in everything - last I saw they've made close to 3 million of those world wide.
@Suction_ yea of course they still have the least likely chance of it being that bad but in the long term I doubt any turbo will last a super long time. It'll probably just last longer than everyone else's version of that.
Always been a fan of mini-vans. Most efficient package for hauling people and stuff. My better half is not having it. The Grand Highlander looks like a great alternative...agree. The hybrid max system seems to perform very well and it's Toyota so should be reliable.
Always enjoy your vehicle reviews. We get more insight than other reviewers give us. 👍🏼I would be interested in a Mercedes Benz GLE 450 review from you.
The gold brings back memories of my 2000 Lexus IS200!
We looked at the Palisade, Telluride, Grand Highlander, and the CX-90. After sitting in and driving all of the them, this definitely came out on the bottom. I think if we wanted to keep it for 12-15 years, then this would be the easy choice, but we only own cards for 6-8 years so I have no issues going with a Palisade that is so much more luxurious and comfortable to drive.
That’s if it last 6-8 years 😂
Thank you for the detailed review! I still have a 2016 V6 Sienna XLE (bought new) , but just ordered the new grand HighlanderXLE 2.4 for our family of 6. The kids feel they have outgrown the Sienna. We still hope to do short family trips around the Northeast region and Canada. Within 5 years I’ll get rid of both once the kids are out of college and buy something fun. If you don’t have a family why even compare this type of car to a sports car. If you find this car boring then just move along.
Hint. Do NOT listen to your kids.
Thank you so much for such an in-depth review! I have been stalking this vehicle since January and really enjoy your insight from a mechanic’s perspective! I have a 2018 4Runner that I absolutely love and am terrified to get rid of but I need more space for my family, so a review like this really helps me determine if I keep my 4Runner or have found a good replacement better suited to my family’s needs!
It is refreshing to come across an honest dealership mechanic that speaks the truth. Please add to your car reviews what the horsepower and torque is for the various options as well as the msrp if your reviewing new vehicles and the channel is PERFECT 😊
Great video! Just one disagreement concerning your conclusion that the Sienna is more sensible than Grand Highland aside from the Hybrid Max. Having test driven one of these, the Grand Highlander is much more comfortable and roomy than the Sienna and has better a better tech package. For someone who is taller, the Grand Highlander will be considerably more comfortable than the Sienna, especially for longer trips. Just figured I’d offer that different perspective. 😊
More comfortable and roomy? That's not what all the reviews are saying. Are you talking about the driver seat specifically? For 2nd and 3rd row seats the advantage goes to the Sienna for sure. What is different about the driver seat on the GH? I'm 6'4" and would like to know. Thanks!
Yes, for the driver’s seat. My apologies for not being more clear. You are correct that the passenger section in the Sienna is larger and more spacious. At 6’3”, I found the GH driver’s seat to be wider and more comfortable than the Sienna. Also recently learned the Sienna’s hybrid battery sits below the front seats which moves the driver seat a bit higher than older generations. I didn’t measure but I believe you can move the GH seat lower which provides more headroom for those with longer torsos.
Personally, I also felt the steering wheel position to be more comfortable and than the Sienna but I realize that’s a personal preference. Hope this perspective helps!
Yes thanks!@@timmy4price
Great video! Regarding about Comparing to Sienna. I don’t think it will be an issue. People will mostly prefer the SUV look over van look.
Thanks for the review - I really like this vehicle. I do agree that the seats look narrow. Also, it didn't look like you had a ton of extra legroom, and I'm 6' 1" and when I set the driver seat for me, my knees were hitting the driver seat. So I got back in and readjusted the driver's seat a bit closer than I'd like, and now I had maybe 2" of legroom left. I wish the 2nd row seat could slide further back because we will only occasionally use the 3rd row.
Thank you for the thorough video! Regarding hybrid engines, is there any concern of no/minimal opportunity for the (gas) engine to "warm up" ? Conceivably you could drive a hybrid for 30 minutes in town, then hop on the freeway and do 70. Did the engine just go from sleeping to sprinting??
A lunchbreak and a new care care nut video! Pure Bliss!
AMD, you are forgetting towing and a non hybrid model on advantages over the Sienna. I consider the hybrid an advantage, but many do not (their loss), but this is rating to tow 5000 lb vs 3500 for the Sienna, and for some, that little extra capacity is needed for a camper.
Man 1 day video and tons of comments!!!
Way to grow the channel!!! 👍
I have heard a-lot of complaints regarding the flimsy hood. Many owners find that the rear of the hood towards the windshield vibrates and flutters at highway speeds causing a significant distraction while driving. Dealer’s response is the hood is aluminum and this is normal. Folks have adjusted the front under-hood frame bumpers up but it does not resolve the issue.
Has Toyota ever heard of stringers? A couple of metal strips in this case likely glued to the bottom of the hood to stiffen the unstable area. Used all over in an airplane albeit usually riveted for installation.
Count me out until this issue and other tin canning body panels are properly reinforced.
Just the other day I went to my dealer to willingly change first oil after 3k km in my new Corolla 2.0 hybrid. 3 (in word "three") technics at the desk looked at me in shock what the heck and why I want to do that, that the engine doesnt need it and who I got that idea from :D
I wonder how the Hybrid Max system performs in extreme cold conditions like Alberta, Canada where we hit -50C or -58F
Thanks for this video, i have the gas highlander....think, I will keep it. Nice SUV, for sure. I own a '23 Rav4 Limited Hybrid and I find the console screen too high and too busy. Dealing with this screen is worse than trying to dial a phone number going down the streets.
It is not safe, having to operate these consoles. Like to remove lot of the stuff on my console, I do not use.
Now, map cost and on my van they did not.
Those giant, high up on the dash screens are a such nightmare! Major distractions.
I am a huge fan of your videos--and I don't even drive! That said, I have a small suggestion: at 33:11 you use the word "thrills". I think the more accurate word is "frills," as in "no gimmicks, no frills." Keep up the great work!
Keep in mind that English is NOT Ahmed’s first language. Some mistakes are normal, and to be expected. 😊
As a tire technician, I hate wheel bolts or lugstuds, as we call them. Most European vehicles and some Chrysler vehicles have them. They are a major pain to deal with when changing tires or rotating tires. If one is missing we can't replace them. If the threads inside the rotor are messed up, you have to replace the whole rotor, not just one stud.
Could you do an updated video on known issues with the Grand Highlander? I had some work done to my Camry recently and mentioned we were interested in them and the service leader told me not to get it because they were having lots of issues.
I just wish Toyota would offer a manual on every car they offer a CVT on. It would make all those cars so much better.
I have a sienna, my complaint is not the power, it’s the suspension that should be air suspension. No none-adjustable is acceptable on a vehicule that can have 1 passager in the morning and 7 with luggage in the afternoon.
My father had an air suspension on a Chevrolet Venture back in 1997….
Been waiting a long time for this video! You definitely did it justice. I now xant wait until you get a hold of the TX 550h+. The combination of the 2gr with a bigger battery pack with 400+ hp just seems perfect
I'm eyeing that but not sure I could handle a $75k+ price tag. A Highlander Prime would be a much more mainstream (and affordable) option
Im also waiting on the TX550h+. It should be a much better vehicle all together since it will have a naturally aspirated V6 engine. No need to worry about the turbo. The only concern will be the tag price for it.
Excellent Honest Professional Review. Can you compare it with the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport?!
Good review ! I have a 2012 highlander and love it !
Ordering one today… getting a tried and true hybrid over the turbo 4 or the hybrid max (turbo 4 hybrid), for longevity and reliability.
logical and economical. great gas mileage and will retain value.
Nice. What is with the TUNDRA in the back
For me this is a youtube #1 TRUE GUY REVIEWER. Go straight to the point, how engine, transmission, suspension work and dont work. Reability, Design and buid. I dont care about plastic and touchscreen reviewer!!!!
Excellent review and I appreciate the comparison to the Sienna. However, I think I'm going to stick to looking for one of these as I'm also in construction and like the additional ground clearance for when I have to drive onto a job site. Now, if I could just find one for sale in So Cal where the dealers aren't adding their greedy "market adjustment"...
Agree completely on the ground clearance being an issue on the Sienna! I'd much rather drive this instead.
The more i look at the US car market, the more I'm weirded out by how your dealers can do things that will not be acceptable in other countries.
Why can't they just sell these cars at the designated price like everybody else in the world?
I’m in SoCal too. Longo Toyota is not doing markups, selling at MSRP, just long waitlists like 6 months but depends on configuration. Claremont Toyota is also good, and there markups aren’t nearly as bad as other SoCal dealers at 3-4k, most are doing at least 5-7k.
It’s an unfortunate side effect of a free market. I’ve also noticed how the companies that distribute new Toyota’s in the US are also adding additional items to the sticker to bump up their profits before the vehicle even arrives at the dealership making them even more expensive here.
Or hauling a utility trailer
How about a maintenance of that rear motor/dif?
I guess Toyota changed the lugs wheels because of those care less mechanics, they chips the paint out the rims with their sockets.
The two hinges on the rear door is great, our Sienna has one and the door has twisted before on that single powered hinge and required a ton of money and time to fix. Also SPARE TIRE! yes! Run flats are terrible.
Been waiting for this video! I got my xle hybrid 2 weeks ago and so far love it. I chose this model because it doesn’t have turbo and uses the same engine in highlanders for years. I was concerned about buying 1st model but having used the same engine and not turbo really helped assuage those concerns. Additionally, I actually canceled my order for the 2023 highlander for this gh because 1. Third row is usable for people and car camping! 2. No cablegate concerns as the cords are covered underneath while the orange cords under regular highlander is totally exposed. 3. This xle hybrid has great mpg: I am getting 38-40 with both city and highway
Probably is not as strong as v6 my 2012 sienna with 225k but we will see. Still getting used to parking it having driven rav4 everyday….glad I have habit of parking where I get most exercise ;)
Yeah got a limited grand highlander regular hybrid. Its the only one of the 3 without turbo, the gas and hybrid max got turbos.
@@robmalcolm8042 yeh. Biggest surprise is it uses certain type of expensive oil so makes 5k mile oil changes pricey
@dt5656 really I heard someone using regular synthetic
@@robmalcolm8042 I took to dealership and cost 170 for oil change. He explained it is really thin oil ….
@@robmalcolm8042 they point out the oil type in this video
ruclips.net/video/d4dtMJhMuAU/видео.htmlsi=XkvCX_75tyHpKu-Q
Please do a Lexus TX review when you get your hands on one. Interesting to see comparison with the Grand Highlander since they are similar.
I have a 2024 Grand Highlander non-hybrid. Did you say not to wait until 10k miles for an oil change? Should I do it every 5k miles like I am used too for my other cars?
They key here for oil changes is the turbo. Any car with a turbo should not be doing 10,000 mile oil changes even with synthetic. Synthetic oil is mandatory with small turbo's. A small turbo is any turbo smaller than a semi truck turbo. Many manufacturers recommend regular 3,000 mile oil changes with the turbo. With a good synthetic oil you can probably push 5,000 miles but I probably wouldn't go beyond that for light use. Heavy use, like towing or load hauling gets 3000 mile with synthetic oil changes.
Almost any newer car without a turbo can do 10,000 mile oil change though I only push my cars to 7,000 miles even with synthetic.
I regularly check my oil as well for level and color. I highly recommend everyone check their oil once a month. If the color suddenly changes, get it to your mechanic right away. You might save it's life and a ton of money.
@@consaka110K is much for any car definitely gonna burn oil before it hits 150K miles or even sooner so 3 an 5 the best 7 starting to push it
@@andersonrodriguez8258 lol I disagree and oil testing will prove me right. None of my cars use any oil aside from the 2009 turbo Subaru but the Subaru is a different animal with its own set of challenges. The rest are heading towards 200k with no oil use issues which is saying something when you consider all the newer cars with oil use issues that are not even remotely related to oil changes. This channel has even talked about that specifically.
Also consider some of the abused cars that have made it to 100k without any oil changes. Sure their oil looks like gloppy molasses but clean it out and put new oil in and they run decently.
Fact is the drivetrain on cars is pretty these days and oil quality is way higher than it used to be. With good oil you could easily do 20,000 miles so 10k is just a really safe margin.
@@consaka1 However, like TCCN and Scotty say, oil & filters are cheap, engines are expensive. Just change it every six-months or 5,000 miles, whichever occurs first and you will be fine.
I change the oil in 2021 Highlander V6 every 5,000 miles, we drive 10,000 miles a year…..so it’s an extra oil change…..big deal.
Purchased a certified pre owned Sienna in 2017 absolutely loved it until it was totaled by driving through a flooded street!
Ground clearance is now a top priority ! Sights are set on a Grand Highlander.
Thanks for your interesting review!
Toyota, at large, and this vehicle, in particular, are excellent vehicles; yet, they are too expensive and overpriced - not affordable for our family!
Currently, most Toyota dealer's are adding market adjustments $$$$, add-ons $$$, and fees $$$ onto their asking prices...
In this class of vehicle, there is no "budget-friendly" option. I think the lowest trim gas model is 45k. Pilot / Telluride / Palisade / CX-90 are all the same or higher.
@notsodelusional You are, unfortunately, correct.
You're the only person I've seen even mention the AC vents in the 3rd row! I haven't seen that on any other similar vehicles, and I'm looking at a 3 row SUV cause I'm not interested in a minivan, so this grand highlander is on the top of my list
Check out the Hyundai Palisade….same 2nd and 3rd row overhead vents…not to mention a much more plush interior….including 2nd row heated and cooled seats, and even 3rd row heated seats.
AMD, If I was buying a Grand RAV4 Highlander Thing as you call it, 24:05 the regular, 34 mpg Hybrid would be my choice . 🤩🤩
Grand Highlander.. nothing to do with the Rav4.
Think his joke is it looks like a super sized rav4 lol
@@chibbyylol It was AMD's joke in the middle of the video.
What a great straight to the point knowledgeable review unlike most others on RUclips. Thank sir!
Great review AMD. I am excited about the potential for this model. I know you always mention the aluminum knuckles on the suspension. Aluminum is a good choice for dissipating heat and this configuration may pull heat away from the brakes and the wheel bearings. So while it may weld itself to the wheel at some point, before it does that it may be extending the life of other moving components that are generating heat during normal operation. Toyota uses this material for the knuckles in all their vehicles that I know of so there may be more than one reason why that they use it.
So you have to buy a new knuckle when the bearing goes out?
Really good review! I like the mechanical explanations, we dont see that often anymore and it's so important I think when shopping for a vehicule.
Only thing I can say is when you compared it to the Sienna at the end, I think you forgot the actual only factor I think that makes it different to the swagger wagon, the towing capacity! Isn't it 5000lbs on the Grand Highlander? I know the Sienna is 3500lbs of towing capacity and for me, it's the actual reason why I could seek one more than the other. Cheers!
Thank you for another great review, AMD!!
In my opinion, putting price & functionalities & technology aside, it comes down to "Image" (Grand SUV vs. Minivan ).
P.S. Still planning to swing-by your shop one day just to say Hello 👍
First, I think the Toyota officials should and would be very happy to watch your informative videos.
I was looking for a family car and was thinking of Sienna or the regular Highlander hybrid XLE trim.
I watched your other video on the Sienna and now have a more clear view of which path I am taking.
Thank you for providing such original reviews. You are the king of the mechanics!
This car is for people who want mini vans that don't want the visual of a mini van (i.e. my wife) 🤣😂
So my 2017 Lexus RX350 V6 recommends premium (not requires) yet it has the same engine as the Toyota highlander that recommends Regular, why would Toyota recommend premium when it’s the same engine?
I have a 2015 Toyota Highlander with the 3.5l engine and the 6 speed auto transmission.
That was the best engine/transmission combination.
Toyota should have kept them, very strong and reliable.
I have 180000km/112000miles it runs like new.
I will drive this car for the next 30 years I don't like all the new hybrid systems and CVTs.
Especially since I retired recently and I'm only driving 5000 km/3000miles per year so all that extra hybrid expense doesn't make sense for me.
EVs are not there yet.
Absolutely yes. Thank you.. I totally agree.
In the same boat as you.
I have a 2013 Highlander. It has 104,000. I am 75-years old. I am not sure whether the Highlander or I will go first. I will not buy anything to replace it, unless it becomes unreliable.
I am sure its a champ. I see a lot of those still on the road in great shape.. even first and second generations sometimes that appear to be holding up quite well.@@kennethabarnhart
I have a 2016 Limited and looked at the 2023 model last spring.. just out of curiousity as I am very satisfied with what I have. It felt so thin and flimsy, chintzy then add in a four cylinder.. no thank you. I will pass.
If the MPG is roughly equal, then why was the V-6 Cancelled? My V-6 does an average of 22MPG and has a known fantastic reliability, track record.
Why fix what isn’t broken????
Govt bs makes them get rid of the 6
Non hybrid non electric. Thank you Toyota for keeping it simple and reliable. This is why I always keep 1 Toyota in the garage at all times. Great review as well thank you. Love the channel.
Toyota hybrids are super reliable too. Between 250,000 and 300,000 miles they will last. If you replace the battery with an oem one you might be able to get it to last twice that. But it cost like $5000 for battery and labor. And if you live in a cold climate where they salt the roads, the frame might be the first thing that goes before even the battery.
I think the brake light feature on the screen is for the auto parking brake. It will automatically disengage when you press the gas again and then reengage when you stop. So seeing the red on the screen is reassuring and reminding you the brakes are applied.
I would like to hear about recalls….issues…problems…with any car you break down….it would be helpful for interested buyers…
the regular hybrid has a gas gage issue on some, that is about it. The max hybrid may have a jumping transmission issue, as gas gage issue as well as get less mpg than they estimated. Radiator on all might be getting hit by small rocks.
I have driven one of these and got it up to a good speed and applied the breaks as if to avoid a rear ender…and it did not stop the vehicle. I felt as if the breaks were not built for this considerably heavier grand highlander. I did not like that feeling. Refused to purchase it.
The brakes, not breaks, may not have been broken in yet. I'd have test driven another before condemning it on that point.
@@consaka1do you really think when this car is fully loaded it can safely stop with standard brakes with dual piston and single piston in the back from highlander? Highlander is lighter which makes sense but this should used brakes from land cruisier 300 /Tundra. Take your family and load up the trunk and stop i will see how you be defending this car
He hits on what I was concerned about - the regular hybrid being underpowered for that size of a vehicle when loaded down. Holding out hope for a Prime version to offer power and similar efficiency
The added horsepower of the Hybrid Max is enough, check the horsepower rating and torque below:
For the family driver, the allure of the Grand Highlander rests with the new Hybrid Max powertrain. As the most powerful Toyota midsize SUV ever, it can rush from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds. Grand Highlander Hybrid Max powertrains generate 362 horsepower with 400 lb. -ft of torque.
We just got the regular hybrid 2024 Grand Highlander and it seems to have better pickup than the gas, even with lower horsepower. I think the battery makes a big difference from a stop. And with hopes to get 37MPG in town, its now my goal. Too bad we do more highway driving, but 34 isnt too shabby either
@@jlwhein1779 Same drivetrain as my 2023 Lexus ES300h (I believe) and I get 43+ MPG in the city; however, she does weigh less than your Highlander. Love the hybrid system. See my comment below and change that oil & filter regularly (every six-months or 5,000 miles, whichever occurs first) just like TCCN and Scotty Kilmer recommend.
@@jlwhein1779agree.. same reasons I got xle hybrid.
The regular hybrid is proven and reliable for last 20 years... The hybrid max is an experiment with turbos and new engine setup that no track record (turbos tend to expensive part that wears out overtime). I would go with the regular hybrid...