Toyota has publicly debuted the all-new 2024 Grand Highlander utility at the Chicago Auto Show.

The Grand Highlander enters Toyota’s successful SUV lineup, offering up a new three-row option with an emphasis on space, utility and efficiency. In its own take on the rule of three, the Grand Highlander also debuts with three grades and a trio of powertrains.

And that’s as good of a place to start as any; the Grand Highlander can be powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, a 2.5-liter hybrid engine or Toyota’s Hybrid MAX powertrain. The former two come standard with front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive is equipable; the Hybrid MAX, however, is exclusively AWD, taking full advantage of the system’s 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, enabling a max tow rating of 5,000 lbs and sending it off the line for a 0-60 mph time of 6.3 seconds.

Details on the other two powertrains are sparse, but promising. We do know that the 2.5-liter hybrid boasts more in the name of efficiency with a manufacturer estimated 34 mpg combined. All three powertrains can be tailored to respond to operator inputs via Drive Modes– Sport, Eco and Normal for all; and “Multi-Terrain Select” Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, and Snow for all-wheel drive models.

Toyota claims the Grand Highlander to be “road-trip ready,” and not just thanks to the 13 large cup holders and seven USB-C charging ports– though they certainly help. The Grand Highlander, built on the TNGA-K platform, offers up more room for passengers and cargo alike– 98 cubic-feet of space with the rear seats folded down, in fact.

“There is definitely a need in the market for a midsize-SUV that prioritizes interior comfort in all three rows and Grand Highlander is the ultimate option,” said Lisa Materazzo, group vice president of Toyota Marketing. “This 3-row model takes the Highlander legacy to an entirely new space while also keeping on our promise to deliver on electrification. Highlander was the first model in it’s segment to offer a hybrid powertrain back in 2006 and Grand Highlander further expands on our electrification leadership.”

Those familiar with Toyota lingo will likely be familiar with the grades: XLE, Limited and Platinum. Even in its “entry-level” form, the Grand Highlander XLE comes with a healthy dose of tech, comfort and safety. The interior features Softex-trimmed material, upholstering the 10-way power driver and 8-way power passenger seats. It’s configured as a 7-passenger hauler with 2nd-row captain’s chairs, though a bench can be configured for 8 seats total. Those upfront will have hands-on access to the standard 12.3-inch infotainment display, with the driver specifically benefitting from a 7-inch MID instrument panel. Other standard tech includes Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 3.0, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Key, a Power Liftgate, and more.

The Limited picks things up with leather seating, heated and ventilated upfront and just heated in the second row; while a heated steering wheel and ambient lighting also help elevate the cabin. The driver utilizes a larger instrument panel, now 12.3-inches to match the infotainment, the latter of which is paired to an 11 speaker JBL audio system. Additional tech includes puddle lamps, rain sensing wipers, parking sensors with automatic braking, and a kick power liftgate.

Stepping things up one last grade to the Platinum, the heated second row is now also ventilated, and a Panoramic Moonroof– optional on the XLE and Limited– is now standard; however, it’s the driver who benefits most. All Platinums gain a Head-Up display, a panoramic view monitor and a digital rearview mirror, among other amenities. All-wheel drive models receive paddle shifters and a dial for the Multi-Terrain select.

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is to be built at the automaker’s plant in Princeton, Indiana. Pricing and availability will be announced this summer. And you can stay tuned to MotorWeek for when we get our chance to get behind the wheel.