2024 Toyota Grand Highlander – Test Drive Review

Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum is a fusion of performance, luxury, and family-friendly features.

I recently had the opportunity to test drive the all-new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum, which left quite an impression on me. This family-friendly three-row SUV boasts impressive performance, a stunning exterior design, a luxurious interior, and a hybrid engine that stands out. Let’s dive into the highlights, making this car a remarkable choice for long and short family trips. The 2024 Grand Highlander catches your attention from the moment you see it. The unique front grille with integrated vents gives the vehicle an aggressive yet sophisticated look. The 20-inch alloy wheel, sleek LED taillights, and headlights contribute to its modern and dynamic appearance. The panoramic moonroof adds a touch of openness to the cabin, enhancing the overall experience for both drivers and passengers.

Luxurious and Aesthetically Pleasing Interior

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a well-designed interior that oozes luxury and comfort. The spaciousness of the third row, with an impressive 33.5 inches of legroom, ensures that even adults can sit comfortably. The available 60/40 second-row bench seating and 60/40 third-row fold-flat functionality make configuring the interior a breeze, allowing for flexible cargo and seating arrangements. Heated front seats and an available heated steering wheel are perfect for chilly mornings. At the same time, the second-row retractable window sunshades and three-zone automatic climate control contribute to a serene and comfortable atmosphere for all passengers. The ambient lighting sets the mood, creating a pleasant ambiance during night drives. With abundant cup holders and power outlets, the Grand Highlander ensures convenience for all occupants.

 

Hybrid Performance Excellence

The Hybrid MAX option delivers a robust 362 net horsepower and an EPA-estimated 27 combined MPG for those seeking even more performance. Integrating three distinct driving modes (Sport Mode, Eco Mode, Normal Mode) allows drivers to tailor their driving experience to their preferences. Multi-Terrain Select or Trail Mode, available on all-wheel-drive models, enhances traction across various road conditions.

Unparalleled Safety and Cutting-Edge Technology

The 2024 Grand Highlander strongly emphasizes safety, thanks to the standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite. Features like a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Lane Tracing Assist contribute to elevated driving confidence. Automatic High Beams and Proactive Driving Assist further enhance the safety net. The tech features in the Grand Highlander are equally impressive. The 12.3-inch touchscreen with Toyota Audio Multimedia offers intuitive controls and access to features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, streamlining connectivity. The Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging eliminates the hassle of cords while keeping your devices charged. And if you’re an audiophile, the 1,200-watt JBL Audio System with eleven speakers promises a phenomenal sound experience.

Verdict

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is a standout three-row SUV at a $60K price point. It ticks all the boxes for families seeking performance, luxury, safety, and technology. Its hybrid engine sets a new standard for efficiency and power, making it an ideal choice for short daily drives and long family road trips. The sharp exterior design and thoughtfully designed interior ensure that you’ll be riding in style, while the array of features, from safety to entertainment, provide a truly exceptional driving experience. Toyota has succeeded in creating a family-friendly vehicle and a pleasure to drive.

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum

Exterior – 8.5/10

Interior – 8.5/10

Performance – 9/10

Value – 10/10

Overall Grade – 9/10

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Evolution Of The Nissan GT-R: A Cinematic and Pop Culture Icon

The Nissan GT-R has gone from a motorsport legend to a cinematic icon.

The Nissan GT-R earned the nickname “Godzilla” in 1992 when the R32 debuted. It has become a high-performance icon that seamlessly fuses speed, precision, and innovation. Its journey from the racetrack to the silver screen is a captivating tale of engineering brilliance and cultural influence. The GT-R has a rich history, dating back to the 1960s with the first generation Skyline GT-R. However, the R32 Skyline GT-R brought the nameplate to the global stage. It quickly became a favorite among enthusiasts and motorsport aficionados. That is thanks to advanced technology like the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system and a powerful inline-six engine.  This generation’s impressive track performance earned it the nickname “Godzilla” due to its supernatural abilities to outperform rivals.

The GT-R’s influence on films became increasingly evident.

It gained recognition for its performance and distinct aesthetics. The R34 Skyline GT-R’s appearance in the 2001 film “The Fast and the Furious” marked a pivotal moment, introducing the car to a worldwide audience and cementing its place in automotive pop culture. Its starring role in subsequent franchise installments only solidified its status as an icon. However, the true watershed moment for the GT-R arrived with the introduction of the R35 model in 2007. Breaking away from the Skyline lineage, the Nissan GT-R stood alone, showcasing cutting-edge technology, including the ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel-drive system and a handcrafted twin-turbo V6 engine. Its acceleration and handling prowess were second to none, setting record lap times on famed tracks like the Nürburgring. As a result, it gained the moniker “Supercar Killer,” challenging the dominance of established luxury sports car brands.

In pop culture, the R35 GT-R’s impact was equally significant.

Its inclusion in video games like the Gran Turismo series and various racing titles made it a virtual poster child for automotive enthusiasts. The GT-R’s futuristic design and ferocious performance made it a favorite among die-cast model collectors and custom car builders. The GT-R’s allure blossomed with appearances in movies like “Need for Speed” and the upcoming Gran Turismo movie, where it seamlessly merged with the high-octane action and modern aesthetics of these films. Its menacing stance, distinctive quad-circle taillights, and signature roar became synonymous with power and precision, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture.

Thanks to Nissan, I have been driving the 2023 Nissan GTR for the past several days.

It is a masterpiece of high-performance engineering. It is an exhilarating ride that embodies the heart-pounding spirit of motorsports. With its handcrafted twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering an impressive 565 horsepower in the GT-R Premium trim, this powerhouse is ready to deliver gut-punching acceleration at the slightest tap of the pedal. The ATTESA ET-S all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction and handling. Its dynamic handling shines through corners, making it a thrill to pilot on city streets, and it is ready for the race tracks.

The GT-R’s exhilarating ride and agile handling are the results of its meticulously calibrated independent double-wishbone front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension. It features Bilstein DampTronic shock absorbers as standard, providing drivers with three selectable settings: Normal, Comfort, and R. These distinct modes empower the driver to seamlessly blend different degrees of driving comfort with the signature sporty and responsive handling that defines the GT-R. Conveniently placed on the car’s central console, sizeable tactile switches grant control over the engine, transmission, and suspension’s trio of driving modes.

Exuding a timeless and iconic design, the GT-R’s aggressive yet refined exterior is designed to turn heads and maximize aerodynamic efficiency. This car demands attention with its wide and low stance, muscular curves, and distinctive design cues. However, while the exterior remains captivating, the interior could benefit from a much-needed upgrade. The comfy Nappa leather-appointed seats and “horizontal-flow” dashboard design offer a luxurious feel, but the lack of modern technology and features leaves much to be desired.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the GT-R is its versatility.

Despite its race-inspired performance, it’s surprisingly accessible to drivers of varying skill levels. Anyone can enjoy the thrill of driving this supercar, whether you’re a seasoned track enthusiast or someone new to high-performance vehicles. The GT-R’s adjustable suspension settings and intuitive handling make it adaptable to different driving preferences. This feature makes it as suitable for daily commuting as it is for spirited weekend drives.

Verdict

While the GT-R undoubtedly offers an unforgettable driving experience, notable areas warrant improvement. Despite its comfort, the interior is showing signs of aging, compounded by my disappointment with the utilized materials and finishes. A comprehensive redesign holds the potential to integrate modern technology and features, addressing these concerns seamlessly. Although back seats are present, they lean more towards symbolism than practicality, making minimal contributions to the car’s overall usability. Adding more flair to the GT-R’s interior and an upgraded head unit and gauge cluster could distinctly set the latest model apart from its predecessor.

 

2023 Nissan GT-R Premium Rating

Exterior – 10/10

Interior – 6/10

Performance – 10/10

Value – 8/10

Overall Grade – 8.5/10


However, the absence of a crisp backup camera or a 360-degree view could be better, especially considering the substantial price tag of over $123,000. Despite these considerations, the 2023 Nissan GT-R remains a resounding testament to Nissan’s unwavering commitment to high-performance engineering. This track-ready vehicle harmoniously fuses timeless design, exceptional handling, and an exhilarating driving experience that is genuinely challenging to match.

Introducing the 2024 Nissan GT-R

The 2024 Nissan GT-R has been unveiled with a range of updates. The new year model will receive redesigned front and rear fascias and innovative rear wing designs. Alongside these enhancements, the T-spec special edition returns. It joins the existing lineup alongside the GT-R Premium and NISMO models. T-spec pays tribute to the rare R34-generation GT-R models with unique paint colors like Millennium Jade and Midnight Purple. The GT-R Premium and T-spec boast 565 horsepower to enthrall sports car enthusiasts, and the GT-R NISMO ramps up performance to 600 horsepower by drawing direct inspiration from motorsports applications. Enthusiasts can anticipate the 2024 Nissan GT-R arriving at select U.S. Nissan dealerships this spring.

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2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave Edition: Conquer The Terrain In Style

2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave

Jeep’s answer to mid-size truck lovers is the Gladiator.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave Edition is an impressive addition to the Jeep family. It is designed for those who crave adventure with a touch of sophistication. The sleek Silver Zynith Clear-Coat Exterior Paint will turn heads on and off the road, while its refined yet aggressive design sets it apart from other pickups. Inside, the Black Interior Color complements the Mojave Edition’s adventurous spirit. The Premium Cloth Seats with Sport Bolsters provide excellent support during off-road maneuvers and a comfortable ride for everyday commuting. Additionally, The well-equipped interior showcases Jeep’s attention to detail and driver-centric design philosophy.

 

The Gladiator Mojave Edition is a powerful and reliable vehicle.

It features a robust 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with Stop/Start technology. With an impressive 285 horsepower and 260 pound-foot of torque, the Mojave Edition can easily handle any terrain. Its 8-Speed Automatic Transmission ensures seamless gear transitions for a smooth driving experience on and off the road. One of the most notable features of the Mojave Edition is its exceptional off-road capabilities. Equipped with FOX 2.5 Performance Internal By-Pass Shocks and FOX Performance Hydro Jounce Bumpers, this vehicle can easily absorb rough terrains and provide a stable and controlled ride. The Gladiator’s Tru-Lok Rear Axle, Cab Rock Rails, and Heavy-Duty Dana 44 Wide Front and Rear Axles are designed to conquer any obstacle easily.

The Jeep Gladiator Mojave Edition features 17-inch x 7.5-inch low-gloss black aluminum wheels. They are paired with 33-inch LT285/70R17C all-terrain tires. This combination gives the vehicle an aggressive look and ensures excellent surface traction. The Command-Trac part-time 4WD system and Terrain-Specific Off-Road Plus Mode allow drivers to customize the Gladiator’s performance to match the terrain, providing an enhanced driving experience. Safety is a top priority for the Gladiator Mojave Edition, equipped with advanced multistage front airbags and supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags to ensure maximum protection for all occupants. The ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera also assists with parking and maneuvering, improving driver visibility.

The Mojave Edition provides both entertainment and connectivity.

It has a Uconnect 4C NAV system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display. It provides access to features like 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hot Spot, SiriusXM Guardian Connected Services, and Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto integration. The Alpine Premium Audio System ensures great sound quality, making every adventure more enjoyable. Jeep also offers a range of optional equipment that allows customization of the Gladiator Mojave Edition based on individual preferences, such as a practical Roll-Up Tonneau Covers and a Heated Steering Wheel.

If you’re in the market for a pickup truck that can handle both off-road adventures and daily driving, the Jeep Gladiator Mojave Edition is worth considering. Its ruggedness, modern features, and comfortable interior make it an attractive option for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. However, at a price of $67,000, it may be more expensive than some full-size trucks, which could offer better value. Nevertheless, if you prioritize a combination of off-road prowess and on-road refinement, the Gladiator Mojave Edition is worth adding to your list.

2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave Edition Rating 

Exterior – 8/10

Interior – 7/10

Performance – 8/10

Value – 7/10

Overall Grade – 7.5/10

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