Is Toyota making a 2024 Highlander?
The 2024 Highlander was produced as part of Toyota’s 2024 model-year lineup, but new-unit production for that year has ended. Today, buyers are more likely to encounter current-model-year Highlanders (the 2025 lineup) or used/leftover 2024 models from dealers.
Here’s what you need to know about the 2024 Highlander—its capabilities, how it was positioned in the lineup, and how to track one down if you’re specifically after a 2024 model.
Overview of the 2024 Highlander
Key specifications and options that defined the 2024 Highlander include:
- Powertrains: a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering around 265 horsepower, and a 2.5-liter hybrid system delivering about 243 horsepower combined.
- Transmission: an 8-speed automatic with the turbo engine, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for the hybrid.
- Drivetrain: front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available across most trims.
- Seating: standard 8-passenger seating with a 3rd-row bench; a 7-passenger configuration with second-row captain’s chairs is available on higher trims.
- Trims and variants: available in conventional gas and Hybrid forms, including L, LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum levels, plus corresponding Hybrid versions.
- Safety and tech: Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ is widely standard, with modern infotainment options (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and display sizes varying by trim.
- Pricing and availability: initial MSRP ranges depended on trim and options, with higher trims priced accordingly; as production shifted to newer model years, 2024 stock became more limited—often found via leftover-new inventories or used markets.
These characteristics show the 2024 Highlander was designed to balance family practicality with available efficiency and comfort, while offering a choice between a traditional gas engine and a more efficient hybrid setup.
Current availability and where to look
Because Toyota shifted focus to newer model years, finding a brand-new 2024 Highlander requires looking at leftover stock or certified pre-owned examples. Availability can vary by region and dealership, and many 2024 models will be sold as used or as remaining new inventory.
Buying guidance for a 2024 Highlander
To pursue a 2024 Highlander, consider these steps:
- Check with local Toyota dealerships for any leftover 2024 Highlander inventory, including new units that remain unsold.
- Expand your search to adjacent regions or online dealer inventories to locate any remaining 2024 gas or Hybrid models.
- Consider certified pre-owned or used 2024 Highlanders with a clean vehicle history and remaining warranty where applicable.
- Compare trims, features, and financing offers across 2024 stock and newer 2025 models to ensure you’re getting what you want at a fair price.
- Schedule a test drive and ask for a full inspection, especially if purchasing a used or certified unit, to verify drivetrain condition and maintenance history.
- Review warranty coverage and available service plans, as leftover stock may have different terms than current-model-year vehicles.
In practice, most shoppers will end up choosing between a new 2025 Highlander with the latest tech and safety features or a well-documented used or CPO 2024 Highlander with a favorable price and history.
Summary
The 2024 Toyota Highlander existed as part of Toyota’s model-year lineup, offering gas and hybrid powertrains, a choice of seating configurations, and the brand’s Safety Sense suite. Production for that model year has since ended, so current options for buyers are leftover new-stock (where available) or used/Certified Pre-Owned 2024 models, as well as the ongoing 2025 Highlander lineup. Prospective buyers should weigh the value of a 2024 model against the latest 2025 version and consider inventory availability in their region.
What is the lawsuit against the Toyota Highlander?
Recent and ongoing lawsuits involving the Toyota Highlander address issues such as faulty door lock actuators, a potential transmission defect in certain models, and a claim that 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids have fuel tanks that do not fill completely. Other recent lawsuits include an investigation into defective power liftgates and a separate class action settlement for a Bluetooth echo defect that affected some Highlanders.
Current and recent lawsuits
- Door Lock Actuators: A class action lawsuit was filed because many Toyota models, including the Highlander, reportedly have defective door lock actuators that may fail to engage properly. The lawsuit claims owners have been charged for repeated replacements, which Toyota allegedly considered "wear and tear" items.
- Transmission Defect: Lawsuits allege that certain Highlander models (2017-2022) equipped with the UA80 automatic transmission have a defect that can cause whining, erratic shifting, and premature failure. A Customer Support Program (CSP ZJC) was created but only covers a limited number of vehicles, according to Change.org.
- Fuel Tank Defect: A class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids, claiming a defective fuel tank vent causes it to not fill to its capacity.
- Power Liftgate Defect: Some Highlander models (XU20, XU40, XU50, and Highlander Hybrid MHU28) are reportedly affected by a power liftgate defect that can lead to costly repairs, with the lawsuit alleging Toyota knew about the issue but did not issue a recall or warning.
- Bluetooth Echo Defect: A class action lawsuit over a Bluetooth defect that caused an echo on calls in certain Toyota models, including the Highlander, resulted in a settlement, notes this article from Unión Rayo and ClassAction.org.
How to proceed
- Identify your vehicle's details: Determine if your Highlander is included in any of these lawsuits by checking its model year, VIN, and the specific defect alleged.
- Gather evidence: Collect any repair invoices, service records, or documentation related to the defect.
- Contact an attorney: Speak to a lawyer who specializes in consumer or automotive class action lawsuits to understand your options and how you may be affected by an ongoing investigation or settlement.
- Check settlement websites: Visit official settlement websites if they are available for a specific lawsuit, as they often provide important information and instructions for potential claimants.
What is the difference between Highlander 2024 and 2025?
2024 model: 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with hybrid system. 2025 model: Refined hybrid powertrain offering improved torque distribution for smoother performance.
Is Highlander getting a redesign in 2025?
It's been five years since this latest Highlander generation debuted. For the 2025 model year little has changed, with just a minor tweak here and there to features and colors.
Is the Highlander getting redesigned in 2024?
The 2024 Highlander's redesigned features give the vehicle more stable handling and a more substantial frame that create a quieter cabin for every ride. Additionally, the 2024 model is available in four drive modes depending upon your preference and weather conditions.
