The Toyota Grand Highlander is essentially a larger version of the regular Highlander, which is an important benefit since the model is on the smaller side for a mainstream three-row crossover. Most trims are down about 5 inches in length and roughly 10 cubic feet in passenger volume versus the Ford Explorer, for example.
This size difference rectifies the situation with an even larger footprint than the Explorer, alongside more available passenger space in the cabin. And that brings us to the question of how much grander the space in the Grand Highlander is compared to the standard Highlander.
The Highlander measures 194.9 inches in length in all trims except the XSE, which gains about 2.5 inches due to its sport-focused exterior design cues. All standard Highlanders share the same 112.2-inch wheelbase.
Meanwhile, the Grand Highlander checks in at 201.4 inches long, with a 116.1-inch wheelbase. The difference in the latter measure is particularly important because wheelbase changes how each vehicle handles. Basically, a shorter wheelbase improves agility, and a longer one boosts comfort.
The Grand Highlander is a bit taller and wider as well, and all those exterior differences add up to a significant boost in cabin space.
When it comes to passenger volume, the Grand Highlander offers up to 153.3 cubic feet for passengers without its panoramic sunroof and 149 when letting the sunshine in.
However, the bigger SUV actually has slightly less legroom and shoulder room in the front row compared to its smaller sibling: 41.7 inches vs. 42.0 for legs and 56.5 vs. 57.2 for hips for the Grand Highlander and Highlander, respectively.
In contrast, the back of the Grand Highlander sees a bit more second-row legroom, along with a notable 5.5-inch advantage for third-row passengers.
The third row also sees about 2.5 more inches of shoulder room in the Grand Highlander.
This increased space is complemented by more room for cargo, with the Grand Highlander offering up to 97.5 cubic feet behind the front seats, 57.9 with the third row folded, and 20.6 with a full house.
The Toyota Grand Highlander's larger size translates to a more spacious cabin, but with some compromises on front-row comfort.
