The Toyota Grand Highlander, the latest addition to Toyota’s family of three-row SUVs, is a highly anticipated vehicle in the market. It aims to bridge the gap between the full-size Sequoia and the popular Highlander, offering a compelling option for buyers seeking a spacious and versatile SUV. However, in a fiercely competitive segment, the Toyota Grand Highlander faces strong contenders vying for the attention of mid-sized SUV enthusiasts.
- Ford Explorer
- Honda Pilot
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Hyundai Palisade
- Subaru Ascent
- Volkswagen Atlas
- Kia Telluride
- Mazda CX-9
These mid-sized SUVs offer their own unique blend of style, performance, and features, providing buyers with a diverse range of options to suit their preferences and needs. Whether it’s advanced technology, ample cargo space, or powerful engine choices, each alternative has something special to offer.
Throughout this article, we will explore each of these competitors in detail, highlighting their distinguishing features and advantages. By the end of this comprehensive guide, prospective buyers will be equipped with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision when considering an alternative to the Toyota Grand Highlander.
Ford Explorer – A Sporty and Value-Packed Alternative
The 2023 Ford Explorer is a mid-sized SUV that perfectly combines sporty origins with practicality. With its sleek design and muscular stance, the Explorer offers a bold and eye-catching presence on the road.
When it comes to performance, the Ford Explorer doesn’t disappoint. It comes with a range of powertrain options, including a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and an available hybrid powertrain. Whether you’re looking for efficient city driving or powerful highway cruising, the Explorer has you covered.
Inside the cabin, the Explorer provides ample space for both passengers and cargo. The three-row SUV can comfortably accommodate up to seven people, making it an ideal choice for larger families or those who frequently travel with a group. The versatile seating arrangements and configurable cargo space ensure that you have enough room for all your belongings.
In terms of technology and features, the Ford Explorer comes well-equipped. It offers advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control to enhance your driving experience and provide peace of mind on the road. The intuitive infotainment system, complete with a responsive touchscreen interface and connectivity options, keeps you connected and entertained throughout your journey.
While the Ford Explorer offers a sporty and exciting driving experience, it might not be the best value option in its class. The pricing of the Explorer may be slightly higher compared to some of its competitors, such as the Toyota Highlander. However, if you value performance, style, and a well-equipped interior, the Explorer is still a compelling choice in the mid-sized SUV segment.
Key Features of the Ford Explorer:
- Sporty and stylish design
- Range of powertrain options
- Spacious interior with three rows of seating
- Advanced safety features for added peace of mind
- Intuitive infotainment system with connectivity options
Honda Pilot – Muscular Styling and Optimized Interior
The 2023 Honda Pilot is a standout choice in the mid-sized SUV segment, offering a range of features that make it a compelling alternative to the Toyota Highlander. One of its key advantages is its muscular styling, which gives it a commanding presence on the road. The Pilot’s bold lines and aggressive front grille make a strong statement, setting it apart from other three-row SUVs in its class.
But it’s not just about looks. The Honda Pilot also impresses with its optimized interior, providing a spacious and comfortable cabin for both driver and passengers. With seating for up to eight people, there’s plenty of room for the whole family and more. The Pilot’s versatile seating configurations allow for easy access to the third row, making it convenient for loading passengers or cargo.
When it comes to performance, the Honda Pilot delivers. Its powerful V6 engine provides ample power for city driving and highway merging, ensuring a smooth and capable ride. Whether you’re running errands around town or embarking on a long road trip, the Pilot offers the performance you need.
Nissan Pathfinder – Tough Design and Impressive Towing Capability
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder is a mid-sized family SUV that offers a perfect balance of rugged design and impressive towing capacity. Its tough exterior design exudes strength and durability, making it an ideal choice for families seeking both style and functionality. With a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds, the Pathfinder is well-equipped to handle all of your towing needs, whether it’s a family camping trip or hauling outdoor equipment.
But the Pathfinder is not just about towing capability. It also offers spacious seating for eight, ensuring that there’s enough room for your entire family and more. The interior is thoughtfully designed, providing comfort and convenience for long journeys.
Under the hood, the Pathfinder boasts a capable V6 engine that delivers smooth and responsive performance. Whether you’re driving on city streets or venturing off the beaten path, the Pathfinder offers a confident and enjoyable driving experience.
In addition to its towing capacity and interior space, the Pathfinder comes equipped with advanced safety features to provide peace of mind on the road. From collision warning systems to blind spot monitoring, the Pathfinder prioritizes the safety and well-being of its occupants.
The Perfect Mid-Sized Family SUV
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or embarking on a cross-country road trip, the Nissan Pathfinder is the perfect companion. Its tough design, impressive towing capacity, and spacious interior make it a standout option in the mid-sized family SUV segment. With its combination of style, versatility, and performance, the Pathfinder is ready to take on any adventure.
Chevrolet Traverse – Aggressive Look and Utility
The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse is a standout mid-sized three-row SUV that combines an aggressive look with impressive utility. Whether you’re driving through the city or venturing off the beaten path, the Chevrolet Traverse delivers a bold and commanding presence on the road.
With its spacious interior and seating for up to eight passengers, the Traverse provides ample room for family, friends, and cargo. The versatile cabin can be easily configured to accommodate your changing needs, making it perfect for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
When it comes to performance, the Chevrolet Traverse doesn’t disappoint. With an available all-wheel drive system, it offers enhanced traction and stability, ensuring confident handling in various road conditions. Whether you’re navigating through snowy terrain or tackling rough off-road trails, the Traverse delivers a capable and surefooted driving experience.
In addition to its impressive performance, the Traverse also offers exceptional towing capabilities. With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, it has the power to haul your favorite recreational equipment, such as boats, trailers, or ATVs.
To complement its rugged exterior design, the Traverse is equipped with a range of modern features and technologies. From advanced safety systems to convenient connectivity options, the Traverse keeps you and your passengers comfortable and protected throughout the journey.
Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a family road trip, the Chevrolet Traverse is a reliable and versatile choice. With its aggressive look, all-wheel drive capability, and exceptional utility, it’s a mid-sized three-row SUV that stands out in the crowd.
Hyundai Palisade – Spacious and Sporty SUV
The Hyundai Palisade is a three-rowed spacious SUV that combines functionality with a sleek and sporty design. It offers ample space for up to eight passengers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride for everyone. The Palisade’s interior is thoughtfully designed, with high-quality materials and attention to detail, providing a premium driving experience.
Equipped with a powerful V6 engine, the Hyundai Palisade delivers impressive performance on the road. Whether you’re tackling city streets or venturing off the beaten path, the Palisade’s all-wheel drive capability provides enhanced traction and stability, ensuring a smooth and confident ride in any weather condition.
One of the standout features of the Hyundai Palisade is its towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. This makes it a versatile option for those who require the ability to tow trailers or recreational vehicles. Whether you’re planning a family camping trip or need to transport outdoor equipment, the Palisade has you covered.
With a range of advanced safety features, the Hyundai Palisade prioritizes the well-being of its passengers. From forward collision warning to blind-spot monitoring, the Palisade is equipped with cutting-edge technology to enhance your driving experience and provide peace of mind on the road.
Overall, the Hyundai Palisade offers an impressive combination of space, sportiness, and versatility. Whether you’re ferrying a large family or embarking on outdoor adventures, this three-rowed spacious SUV is a compelling choice. With its all-wheel drive capability, powerful engine, and towing capacity, the Hyundai Palisade is ready to take on any journey.
Subaru Ascent – Comfortable and Capable
The 2023 Subaru Ascent is Subaru’s flagship SUV, offering comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. With its spacious interior and versatile seating configurations, the Subaru Ascent is an ideal choice for families and adventure enthusiasts.
The Subaru Ascent is equipped with symmetrical all-wheel drive, providing improved traction and stability on various road conditions. Whether you’re navigating through city streets or venturing off the beaten path, the all-wheel drive system ensures a confident and capable driving experience.
In addition to its impressive seating capacity and all-wheel drive capability, the Subaru Ascent also boasts a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. This makes it suitable for towing trailers, boats, or other recreational vehicles, allowing you to bring along everything you need for your next adventure.
Not only does the Subaru Ascent offer exceptional comfort and capability, but it also prioritizes safety. It comes equipped with advanced safety features such as Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control. These features provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind for you and your passengers.
Overall, the Subaru Ascent is a top choice for those in need of a flagship SUV that delivers on comfort, capability, and safety. With its spacious interior, symmetrical all-wheel drive, impressive towing capacity, and advanced safety features, the Subaru Ascent is ready to take on any adventure that comes its way.
Volkswagen Atlas – Stylish and Well-Equipped
The Volkswagen Atlas is a stylish SUV that combines sleek design with impressive functionality. With its well-equipped interior and advanced features, the Atlas provides a premium driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
The exterior of the Volkswagen Atlas is designed to turn heads wherever it goes. Its bold and modern look is complemented by sleek lines and distinctive LED lighting. Whether parked or in motion, the Atlas stands out among its competitors as a stylish and sophisticated choice.
Inside the cabin, the Volkswagen Atlas offers a spacious and comfortable environment for up to seven passengers. The interior is crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail, providing a luxurious feel. The seats are supportive and plush, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride for long journeys.
When it comes to safety, the Volkswagen Atlas does not disappoint. It is equipped with a range of top safety features to protect both occupants and pedestrians. Advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, help prevent accidents and provide peace of mind on the road.
Whether it’s a daily commute or a family adventure, the Volkswagen Atlas delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. It offers a choice of engines, including a powerful V6 option, ensuring that there is ample power for any situation. With available all-wheel drive, the Atlas provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in challenging road conditions.
Overall, the Volkswagen Atlas is a stylish SUV that excels in both design and functionality. With its well-equipped interior, top safety features, and impressive performance, the Atlas is a compelling choice for those seeking a premium driving experience.
Kia Telluride – Expanded Lineup and Impressive Awards
The 2023 Kia Telluride has an expanded lineup and offers even more appeal this year. As a three-row mid-sized SUV, it provides ample space for passengers and cargo, making it an excellent choice for families and adventurers alike.
While the Kia Telluride’s fuel economy may not be its strongest point, it compensates with its powerful performance and impressive capabilities. Its robust engine ensures a smooth drive, whether you’re cruising on the highway or navigating challenging terrains.
The Kia Telluride stands out not only for its performance but also for its safety features. It has been recognized by the IIHS as a Top Safety Pick+, proving its commitment to keeping you and your loved ones protected on the road.
In addition to its safety accolades, the Kia Telluride has also been named the Best Buy of the Year by J.D. Power. This recognition speaks volumes about its overall quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
With its expanded lineup, the Kia Telluride offers various trim levels and optional features to cater to different preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize technology, comfort, or performance, there is a Kia Telluride configuration for you.
In summary, while the Kia Telluride may not have the best fuel economy in its class, it excels in other areas that truly matter. Its expanded lineup, impressive awards, and commitment to safety make it a top contender in the competitive three-row mid-sized SUV segment.
Mazda CX-9 – Sleek and Refined Alternative
The Mazda CX-9 is a sleek SUV that offers a refined interior design, making it a compelling alternative to the Toyota Highlander. With its elegant and sophisticated exterior, the CX-9 is sure to turn heads on the road. But its beauty isn’t just skin-deep – step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a premium interior that exudes luxury and craftsmanship.
Not only does the Mazda CX-9 boast a sleek design, but it also delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. The advanced suspension system helps absorb road imperfections, ensuring that every journey is a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
Inside the CX-9, attention to detail is evident in every corner. From the carefully selected materials to the refined finishes, the interior exudes elegance and sophistication. Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the CX-9 provides a refined and comfortable environment for you and your passengers.
Advanced technology features complement the CX-9’s refined interior. Stay connected and entertained with the intuitive infotainment system, which offers seamless smartphone integration, immersive audio, and convenient navigation.
When it comes to performance, the Mazda CX-9 doesn’t disappoint. It is equipped with a powerful engine that delivers impressive acceleration and responsive handling. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling winding roads, the CX-9 offers a dynamic driving experience.
Safety is always a top priority, and the CX-9 is equipped with advanced safety features to provide peace of mind. From blind spot monitoring to adaptive cruise control, Mazda has incorporated the latest technology to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
The Mazda CX-9 at a Glance:
- Sleek and stylish exterior design
- Refined interior with luxurious finishes
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Advanced technology features
- Powerful performance
- Comprehensive safety features
The Mazda CX-9 is a sleek and refined SUV that offers a premium driving experience. With its combination of elegant design, luxurious interior, and advanced features, the CX-9 is a compelling alternative to the Toyota Highlander for those seeking both style and substance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Toyota Grand Highlander competes head-to-head with a strong lineup of mid-sized three-row SUVs. The Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Traverse, Hyundai Palisade, Subaru Ascent, Volkswagen Atlas, Kia Telluride, and Mazda CX-9 are all solid alternatives to consider.
Each of these competitors brings its own unique features and advantages to the table. From the Ford Explorer’s sporty origins to the Hyundai Palisade’s spacious and sporty design, buyers looking for a spacious and capable SUV have plenty of options to choose from.
With tough competition in the mid-sized three-row SUV segment, the Toyota Grand Highlander must continue to innovate and offer standout features to attract buyers. However, consumers can rest assured that they have a wide selection of quality alternatives available to them.
