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2024 Toyota Highlander Review: Features, Performance, and What’s New

May. 12,2025

The 2024 Toyota Highlander combines style, performance, and safety with numerous updates. It features a powerful engine lineup, hybrid options for excellent fuel economy, advanced safety systems, and a luxurious interior, making it ideal for families and daily driving. With appealing trims, special editions, and attractive pricing offers, the Highlander remains a top contender in the midsize SUV segment. Discover the latest features, performance capabilities, and savings opportunities in our comprehensive review of this popular vehicle.

2024 Toyota Highlander Review: Features, Performance, and What’s New

2024 Toyota Highlander Review: Features, Performance, and What’s New

The 2024 Toyota Highlander remains one of the most popular midsize SUVs, renowned for its versatility, reliability, and family-friendly design. With a variety of trims and options, Toyota continues to cater to diverse customer needs. This latest model builds upon its reputation by introducing new editions, advanced technology, and improved features that enhance both safety and driving experience. Whether you're a loyal Toyota fan or a first-time buyer, understanding what sets the 2024 Highlander apart is crucial.

Exciting Updates and New Offerings in the 2024 Highlander

While the Highlander maintains its classic silhouette without a radical redesign, Toyota has added notable updates to add value and appeal. One such addition is the exclusive Hybrid Bronze Edition, exhibited in striking Wind Chill Pearl or Cement exterior colors, complemented by 18-inch bronze alloy wheels that give the SUV a sophisticated look. This special edition features unique design elements such as illuminated bronze-colored door protectors and optional features like a height-adjustable front passenger seat in higher trims, enhancing comfort and convenience for all occupants. These updates underscore Toyota's commitment to offering stylish, efficient vehicles that meet modern expectations.

Though the Highlander hasn’t undergone a full redesign, its various trims are thoroughly equipped with features that keep it competitive within the midsize SUV segment. This balance of style, utility, and value makes the Highlander a favorite among families and daily commuters alike.

Robust Performance and Powertrain Options

The 2024 Highlander is powered by a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup ensures brisk acceleration—achieving 0 to 60 mph in under 7 seconds—making highway merging and overtaking effortless. The vehicle's handling provides a smooth ride, suitable for long family road trips or urban commutes.

In addition, the Highlander offers hybrid variants that appeal to eco-conscious drivers. These hybrid models combine a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, generating a combined output of 243 horsepower. They come with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and can be set to front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on driving needs. These hybrid powertrains not only deliver decent performance but also excel in fuel economy, with the hybrid versions reaching 36 mpg in city driving and around 35 mpg on highways. The hybrid models reach 60 mph in approximately 7.3 seconds, striking a good balance between efficiency and performance.

Comprehensive Safety Technologies

Safety continues to be a core focus for the Highlander. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alerts, and lane departure warnings. Higher trims come equipped with advanced safety options like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alerts, and more. These driver-assist technologies are designed to prevent accidents and protect all occupants, making the Highlander a trustworthy choice for family use and daily commuting.

Impressive Fuel Economy Ratings

The Highlander impresses with its fuel-saving capabilities. Front-wheel-drive models deliver up to 29 miles per gallon on the highway, while all-wheel-drive versions average about 27 mpg. The hybrid variants stand out with their exceptional efficiency, offering up to 36 mpg in city driving and 35 mpg on highways. This combination of economy and power makes the Highlander a practical vehicle for varying driving conditions and budgets.

Luxurious Interior Comfort and Advanced Infotainment

The interior of the Highlander is designed for comfort and connectivity. Base and mid-range trims provide seating for up to eight passengers with bench seats, ideal for larger families. Higher trims, such as the XLE, feature captain’s chairs, premium SofTex upholstery, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats, elevating the overall comfort and style.

The infotainment system in the Highlander is equally impressive. Standard equipment starts with an 8-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Bluetooth connectivity. Upgraded trims provide a larger 12.3-inch display, premium six-speaker audio systems, multiple USB ports, and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities. SiriusXM® satellite radio completes the suite of entertainment options, ensuring all passengers stay connected and entertained during their journeys.

The 2024 Highlander has a starting price of $39,120, with ongoing offers that make it an even more attractive option. Buyers can benefit from a $1,000 cashback offer through Toyota Financial Services when financing through authorized channels, valid until December 5. Military rebate programs are also available, offering an additional $750 discount to eligible service members and veterans. These incentives, combined with its advanced features and versatile design, make the Highlander a compelling choice in the midsize SUV market.