Review: 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo (362 Hp) Hybrid MAX AWD Direct Shift

Explore the features and capabilities of the 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander, a versatile hybrid SUV designed for families and adventurers alike.

Olivia Harper | Mar 23, 2025 | 8 minutes
Review: 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander 2.4 Turbo (362 Hp) Hybrid MAX AWD Direct Shift

The 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander is a standout in the SUV market, offering a blend of power, efficiency, and versatility. With its hybrid powertrain and spacious interior, it's designed to meet the needs of families, city dwellers, and adventure seekers. Whether you're navigating urban streets or embarking on a long road trip, the Grand Highlander promises a comfortable and efficient ride.

Understanding the Key Features

Before diving into the specifics, let's clarify some essential terms:

  • Hybrid MAX AWD: This refers to the vehicle's all-wheel-drive system powered by both a gasoline engine and electric motors, providing enhanced traction and efficiency.
  • FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle): A type of hybrid vehicle that can run on electric power alone, gasoline, or a combination of both.
  • Torque: A measure of rotational force, crucial for acceleration and towing capacity.

Main Features and Performance

The 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander is equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with a hybrid system, delivering a combined output of 362 horsepower. This powertrain allows the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds, making it one of the quicker options in its class.

Fuel efficiency is another highlight, with a combined consumption of 8.7 liters per 100 km (27.04 US mpg). This makes it an economical choice for both city driving and long-distance travel. The SUV meets the SULEV 30 emission standard, ensuring it is environmentally friendly.

The Grand Highlander features a spacious interior with seating for up to eight passengers, making it ideal for families. The trunk offers a generous 583 liters of space, expandable to 2761 liters with the seats folded down, perfect for carrying luggage or sports equipment.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

Let's explore how the Grand Highlander fits various lifestyles:

  • City Driving: With its compact turning circle of 11.6 meters and electric steering, maneuvering through tight urban spaces is a breeze.
  • Long-Distance Travel: The comfortable ride, efficient fuel consumption, and large fuel tank (65 liters) make it an excellent choice for road trips.
  • Family Use: The spacious interior and advanced safety features, including ABS and electric steering, ensure a safe and comfortable journey for all passengers.
  • Adventure Lifestyles: The all-wheel-drive system and high ground clearance (203 mm) allow for off-road adventures and handling rough terrains.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Here's a quick look at the strengths and weaknesses of the 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander:

  • Strengths:
    • Powerful hybrid engine with excellent acceleration.
    • Spacious interior with flexible cargo space.
    • Efficient fuel consumption for its class.
    • Advanced safety and driver assistance features.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Higher price point compared to some competitors.
    • Limited off-road capabilities compared to dedicated off-road vehicles.

Conclusion

The 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander is a versatile SUV that caters to a wide range of needs. Its hybrid powertrain offers a balance of power and efficiency, while the spacious interior and advanced features make it a practical choice for families and adventurers. Consider what features are most important to you, whether it's fuel efficiency, space, or off-road capability, and see if the Grand Highlander meets your needs.

Specifications Table

AttributeDetails
GenerationGrand Highlander
Modification (Engine)2.4 Turbo (362 Hp) Hybrid MAX AWD Direct Shift
Powertrain ArchitectureFHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Body TypeSUV
Seats7-8
Doors5
Combined Fuel Consumption8.7 l/100 km (27.04 US mpg)
CO2 EmissionsSULEV 30
Fuel TypePetrol (Gasoline)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)6.5 sec
Maximum SpeedNot specified
Emission StandardSULEV 30
Battery Voltage288 V
Battery TechnologyNickel-metal hydride (NiMH)
Electric Motor Power87 Hp (front), 103 Hp (rear)
Electric Motor Torque292 Nm (front), 168 Nm (rear)
Engine Displacement2393 cm3
Number of Cylinders4
Engine ConfigurationInline
Power Output265 Hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque450 Nm @ 2000-3000 rpm
Compression Ratio11:1
Fuel Injection SystemDirect injection and Multi-port manifold injection
Engine AspirationTwin-scroll turbo, Intercooler
Kerb Weight2232 kg
Max Load644 kg
Trunk Space (Minimum and Maximum)583 l / 2761 l
Fuel Tank Capacity65 l
Length5115 mm
Width1990 mm
Height1780 mm
Wheelbase2950 mm
Drive Wheel SystemAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)6 gears, automatic transmission Direct Shift
Front SuspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear SuspensionIndependent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer
Front BrakesVentilated discs, 340 mm
Rear BrakesVentilated discs, 338 mm
Assisting SystemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power SteeringElectric Steering
Tire Size255/50 R20
Wheel Rims Size8J x 20
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