Mar 6, 2024

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ocala, FL, with routes stretching out to Leesburg, Orlando, Belleview, The Villages, and Gainesville, Deluca Toyota stands as a testament to automotive excellence and community trust. 

Among its revered lineup, the Toyota Highlander brand shines brightly, embodying the perfect blend of reliability, innovation, and style that has captivated drivers for years. Renowned for its versatility, the Highlander series caters to a wide array of preferences, from the eco-conscious commuter to the adventure-seeking family, making it a beloved choice among locals who demand both efficiency and capability in their daily drives.

Today, we delve into an exciting comparison that has sparked interest and anticipation: the 2024 Toyota Highlander vs. the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander. 

The 2024 Toyota Highlander presents a sleek design and efficient hybrid power, ideal for those valuing compactness and fuel economy. In contrast, the Grand Highlander excels with additional space, enhanced luxury, and a potent Hybrid Max powertrain, making it the go-to choice for buyers desiring a larger, more feature-packed SUV experience. 

This distinction underscores Toyota’s commitment to offering diverse solutions within its vehicle class, ensuring that every driver finds their perfect match.

To better understand the nuances between these two exceptional models, let’s explore a summary table that highlights their key differences. This comparison will illuminate the unique attributes of each, guiding potential buyers toward an informed decision that aligns with their lifestyle and preferences.

Feature2024 Toyota Highlander2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
Size– Length: Shorter – Height: Lower – Width: Narrower– Length: 6.5 inches longer – Height: 2.0 inches taller – Width: 2.3 inches wider
Design– Sleeker design – More compact silhouette– Traditional roofline – Boxier, more upright look
Interior Features– Standard comfort and technology- Limited third-row space– Ventilated captain’s chairs in Platinum trim – Comfortable third row with USB-C port – 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen- Head-up display and digital rearview mirror in Platinum model
Powertrains– 2.5-liter I-4 hybrid engine- 243 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque- Standard FWD, optional AWD– Hybrid Max: 2.4-liter turbocharged I-4 + electric motor, 362 horsepower, 400 lb-ft of torque, standard AWD- Base engine and hybrid setup from Highlander available
Chassis and Suspension– TNGA-K platform- Standard setup for comfort and efficiency– TNGA-K platform with enhancements <br> – Stronger, stiffer body – Redesigned rear suspension for increased third-row and cargo space

Whether you’re drawn to the efficient elegance of the Highlander or the commanding presence of the Grand Highlander, Toyota offers a vehicle that not only meets your needs but also matches your aspirations. 

Let’s dive deeper into the specifics of the 2024 Highlander and 2024 Grand Highlander, exploring their design, interior features, powertrains, and more, to help you decide which SUV is your ideal match.

Why Drive The 2024 Toyota Highlander and 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander?

Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Grand Highlander isn’t just about selecting a vehicle; it’s about choosing a lifestyle. The 2024 Toyota Highlander, with its sleek design and efficient hybrid powertrain, is perfect for those who prioritize fuel economy, environmental consciousness, and the ease of maneuvering through city streets and tight parking spots. It’s the ideal companion for daily commutes and weekend getaways, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and efficiency that meets the needs of modern families and individuals alike.

On the other hand, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander stands as a beacon for those who crave more from their driving experience. With its expansive interior, enhanced luxury features, and the robust Hybrid Max powertrain, the Grand Highlander is tailored for drivers seeking additional space for passengers and cargo, alongside a more powerful and dynamic driving experience. It’s a vehicle designed for long road trips, adventurous outings, and anyone who believes that more is better when it comes to comfort and performance.

Size and Design: A Tale of Two Silhouettes

At first glance, the distinction between the Highlander and its grand counterpart is unmistakable. The Grand Highlander asserts itself with an imposing presence, stretching 6.5 inches longer, standing 2.0 inches taller, and expanding 2.3 inches wider than the Highlander. 

This size advantage translates into a more spacious cabin, offering ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder space for all passengers—ideal for families and groups who love to explore the rich heritage and natural beauty of Central Florida. 

The Grand Highlander’s design, with its boxier look and traditional roofline, sets it apart from the Highlander’s sleeker aesthetics, mirroring the diverse architectural styles found from Belleview to Gainesville.

Inside the Cabin: Luxury Meets Functionality

Venture inside, and the differences grow even more pronounced. The Grand Highlander elevates the driving experience with a luxurious touch, especially noticeable in the Platinum trim. 

Here, passengers are greeted with ventilated captain’s chairs in the second row—a nod to the premium comfort demanded by discerning Ocala drivers. The third row in the Grand Highlander isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a comfortable space for adults, complete with a USB-C port for modern convenience, ensuring that every passenger, whether heading to a local festival or a family outing, enjoys the journey. 

The Grand Highlander further distinguishes itself with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a central touchscreen, plus a head-up display and a digital rearview mirror in the Platinum model, blending high-tech with high comfort.

Power Under the Hood: A Choice of Strength

The Highlander and Grand Highlander diverge significantly in their powertrains. The Highlander Hybrid, with its 2.5-liter I-4 engine and two electric motors, delivers a respectable 243 horsepower—perfect for the eco-conscious driver in Ocala looking for efficiency without sacrificing performance. It’s a setup designed for those who value fuel economy on their commutes or weekend adventures across Central Florida.

Conversely, the Grand Highlander introduces a more robust option with the Hybrid Max powertrain. This powerhouse, featuring a 2.4-liter turbocharged I-4 and an electric motor, pushes out an impressive 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, all while maintaining standard AWD. It’s the ideal choice for those seeking to conquer the diverse terrains of Florida, from sandy beaches to lush forests, with confidence and ease.

Chassis and Suspension: Engineering Excellence

Both SUVs are built on the reliable TNGA-K platform, but the Grand Highlander benefits from additional enhancements. A stronger, stiffer body structure—achieved through more spot welds and extra adhesives—ensures a quieter ride and greater isolation from road vibrations, a must for the smooth highways and backroads of Florida. The redesigned rear suspension not only improves the third-row and cargo space but also contributes to a smoother, more comfortable ride, making every trip, whether to the local market or a cross-state adventure, a pleasure.

In the heart of Central Florida, Deluca Toyota invites you to discover which of these exceptional SUVs aligns with your lifestyle and driving needs. Whether you’re drawn to the efficient elegance of the Highlander or the commanding presence of the Grand Highlander, we’re here to guide you on your journey to finding the perfect Toyota SUV.

Visit Deluca Toyota to Test Drive the 2024 Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander

Choosing between the 2024 Highlander and the 2024 Grand Highlander comes down to personal needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more compact, efficient SUV that doesn’t skimp on technology or comfort, the Highlander is an excellent choice. However, for those who crave more space, luxury, and power, the Grand Highlander emerges as the clear winner, offering a driving experience that’s as grand as its name suggests.

At Deluca Toyota, we’re not just about selling cars; we’re about creating relationships and providing experiences that last. With an array of new Toyota SUVs, including the latest 2024 Highlander and Grand Highlander models, we offer something for everyone. 

We invite you to visit Deluca Toyota and experience the difference for yourself. Take advantage of our personalized test drives, where you can feel the power, comfort, and luxury of our Toyota SUV lineup firsthand. Our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through every step, from exploring our new Toyota specials to tailoring a financing plan that suits your needs. 

Don’t just dream about your next Toyota SUV; come by Deluca Toyota at 1719 SW College Rd, Hwy 200 W, Ocala, FL 34471, or give us a call at 352-732-0770 to schedule your test drive today. Discover why so many from Leesburg to Gainesville choose us for their Toyota needs.