The novelty with three rows of seats should be placed between the Highlander and Sequoia models.
Toyota is preparing to expand its range of large family SUVs. On February 8 next year, just before the start of the Chicago Auto Show, it will present the new Grand Highlander SUV, which is expected to offer up to three rows of seats. Furthermore, the automaker hinted at the novelty with a somewhat mysterious image.
According to the automaker, the new Toyota Grand Highlander is expected to be “sophisticated, spacious and powerful.” It is said to be the “perfect road vehicle,” as cited by the automaker’s overseas colleagues. After all, they pointed out that the automaker had registered the Grand Highlander name for the American and Canadian markets as early as early 2021.
Not long after, the first speculations appeared that the new Grand Highlander SUV would be introduced in early 2023, which has now been confirmed. In the brand’s offer, the new model should be placed between the Highlander models, which also offer three rows of seats, and the Sequoia, a premium SUV built on a frame structure, which replaces the Land Cruiser 300 series in the American markets.
Sadly the first picture posted doesn’t offer much detail, but the rear of the car should look significantly different from the classic Highlander and Sequoia models. On the fifth door there is an embossed writing with the model number between the rear lights, which can also be seen with the writing Hybrid Max, probably indicating the type of driving.
The Hybrid Max designation first appeared this year with the new Crown model. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder, mated to a pair of electric motors. Combined power is expected to reach 253 kW and should be transmitted to the wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox. However, it’s still uncertain whether the Grand Highlander will get exactly the same powertrain.
Lexus could then follow up on the Toyota Grand Highlander with the new TX model, which, as usual, could offer a more distinctive design and a more premium cabin. In the premium brand’s offer, the TX model should position itself between the RX crossover and the larger GX and LX SUVs. At the same time, according to speculation, a Lexus-branded sibling of the Grand Highlander could be introduced after about six months.
