What is the difference between Toyota 2023 and 2024?
Across Toyota's lineup, the 2024 models introduce more standard safety technology, a new Grand Highlander, and modest price adjustments, with changes varying by model and trim.
What follows surveys the main shifts from 2023 to 2024, including safety upgrades, technology updates, new model introductions, and what shoppers should consider if they’re comparing the two years. The specifics can differ by model and region, so checking the exact brochure for the model you care about is recommended.
Safety, Technology and Driving Aids
Safety-Tech Upgrades
A broad shift in 2024 was the rollout of upgraded safety systems across many models, aiming to standardize more advanced driver aids.
- Introduction of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 on many 2024 models, with improvements to pedestrian detection and other under-the-skin safety refinements.
- Upgraded pre-collision and lane-keeping features, with enhanced functions for cyclists and pedestrians on select trims.
- Greater availability of advanced driver-assistance features across more trims, narrowing the gap between lower and higher-end versions.
In short, 2024 models emphasize stronger, more consistent safety tech across the lineup compared with 2023.
Infotainment and Convenience
Alongside safety, Toyota pushed interior tech forward to meet growing consumer expectations for connectivity and ease of use.
- Wider adoption of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with more trims offering wired or even wireless smartphone integration as standard.
- larger touchscreen options and updated infotainment interfaces on more models, sometimes accompanied by faster responsiveness and improved navigation.
- Enhanced convenience features such as wireless charging and better on-board Wi-Fi connectivity on select trims.
These changes aim to reduce the gap between entry-level and higher-end trims in terms of tech offerings.
New Models and Powertrains
Grand Highlander Arrival
One of the marquee shifts for 2024 was the addition of a new model to the family: the Grand Highlander, expanding Toyota’s three-row SUV options.
- Grand Highlander debuted in 2024, providing more interior space and seating capacity than the standard Highlander, and introducing its own trim and option structure.
- Engine options typically included a turbocharged four-cylinder and hybrid powertrains, with a focus on balancing space, efficiency, and everyday practicality.
- Standard and available safety packages were expanded to align with Toyota’s newer safety philosophy, complementing the larger footprint and family-oriented goals of the model.
The Grand Highlander represented a meaningful expansion of Toyota’s SUV lineup for 2024, filling a niche between the standard Highlander and larger three-row offerings.
Hybrid and Efficiency Updates
Toyota continued to push hybridization as a core element of its strategy, with 2024 bringing more options and refinements.
- Increased availability of hybrid powertrains across more models, giving buyers more efficient choices without sacrificing practicality.
- Refinements to existing hybrid systems aimed at improving real-world fuel economy and drive experience on several trims.
For buyers, this shift often means more trims with hybrid options and potential efficiency gains compared with 2023 equivalents.
Pricing, Availability and Buying Considerations
Pricing Trends
Prices across the lineup generally moved higher in 2024, influenced by inflation, supply chain dynamics, and the addition of new features and models.
- Sticker prices on many trims rose slightly to moderately, reflecting new technology and feature packages.
- Some models gained more value through standardization of safety tech, even if the base price increased.
Shoppers should expect some price inflation when comparing 2023 and 2024 models, though incentives and regional differences can affect the bottom line.
Shopping Tips
To optimize a 2024 purchase relative to 2023, keep the following in mind.
- Check whether the exact trim you want includes the newer safety tech (Safety Sense 3.0) and updated infotainment features, as these vary by model and package level.
- Consider the Grand Highlander if you need three rows or extra cargo space; verify availability and pricing for your region.
- Compare hybrid options across trims to find potential fuel-economy benefits, especially if you’re weighing a move from a gasoline-only variant.
Planning ahead and confirming exact feature sets with a dealer will help ensure you’re comparing apples to apples between 2023 and 2024 models.
Summary
The shift from 2023 to 2024 in Toyota’s lineup centers on stronger and more standardized safety technology, expanded in-cabin tech, the introduction of the Grand Highlander as a new hub for family-focused SUVs, broader hybrid options, and a general uptick in pricing reflective of added capability. While many fundamentals—such as core engines and platform familiarity—remain, the 2024 models stack up as more feature-rich and safer across a broader swath of trims. If you’re evaluating between the two years, focus on the exact safety equipment, infotainment features, and whether a new model like the Grand Highlander fits your needs, then verify the specifics with the dealer brochure for the model and region you’re shopping in.
