24 MPG combined is a reasonable figure for the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Limited with the 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This isn’t a hybrid, and it’s tasked with moving a large, three-row SUV designed for families who need space more than outright efficiency. Buyers considering the Grand Highlander are likely prioritizing passenger volume, cargo capacity, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability; fuel economy is a secondary, though still important, factor.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Grand Highlander Limited 2.4L at 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the fuel consumption inherent in stop-and-go driving, where the engine spends more time idling or accelerating from a standstill. The 28 MPG highway rating is achievable during steady cruising, taking advantage of the eight-speed automatic transmission’s ability to select optimal gears for fuel efficiency. However, heavy acceleration for passing or headwinds can easily reduce this number. Toyota has tuned the 2.4L turbo for usable low-end torque, which helps with initial acceleration, but it also means the engine can be more sensitive to throttle inputs compared to a naturally aspirated engine. This is especially true when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Limited 2.4L at $1,800. This figure is based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, and assumes the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual number of miles driven. Some owners might find the $1,800 estimate to be accurate, but it’s important to understand that it’s just an average.

Those who primarily drive in congested city environments or frequently tow will likely see higher fuel costs, while those who mostly drive on the highway could potentially spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can deviate significantly. Drivers can expect to see numbers fluctuate based on weather conditions, driving style, and load. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel economy. Conversely, smooth acceleration, consistent speeds, and minimizing unnecessary cargo weight can help achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates. A realistic expectation for most drivers in mixed driving conditions is likely to be in the 22-26 MPG range. For a deeper dive check out GRAND MPG across all years.

How it compares

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Limited 2.4L competes with a range of three-row SUVs. The Honda Pilot, for example, achieves around 22 MPG combined with its V6 engine. The Kia Telluride, another popular choice, delivers similar numbers in the low 20s. The Ford Explorer with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine is rated around 24 MPG combined, mirroring the Grand Highlander’s performance. However, the hybrid versions of these SUVs often offer significantly better fuel economy.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, though slightly smaller, achieves around 36 MPG combined. Buyers who are particularly sensitive to fuel costs might consider these hybrid alternatives, even if it means compromising on some of the Grand Highlander’s added space. It’s why checking all Toyota fuel economy data is important.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.4L turbocharged engine delivers ample power, but stomping on the accelerator frequently consumes a significant amount of fuel. Gentle and progressive acceleration will help keep the turbocharger from constantly spooling up, thus reducing fuel consumption.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling and unnecessary cargo. Excessive idling burns fuel without moving the vehicle. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Also, remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle to reduce weight and improve fuel economy.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on the highway, especially on relatively flat terrain, helps optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control prevents unintended acceleration and deceleration, resulting in smoother and more efficient driving.

Consider using the available drive modes. The Grand Highlander likely offers different drive modes, such as “Eco” or “Normal.” Using the “Eco” mode can alter throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance, resulting in improved MPG, especially in steady driving.