The Toyota Highlander has consistently been lauded as a top-tier SUV, celebrated for its smooth handling, spacious interior, and an array of features designed for comfort and convenience. For those prioritizing passenger space, a key question arises: just how many people can the Toyota Highlander seat? Let’s delve into the seating capacity of the 2024 Toyota Highlander and explore the configurations available across its trim levels.
The 2024 Toyota Highlander offers configurations for either seven or eight passengers, depending on the specific trim and seating arrangement you choose. If maximizing passenger capacity is your priority, certain models are designed to accommodate larger families or groups, while others offer a slightly more spacious feel for seven occupants with enhanced individual comfort.
To be specific, the Platinum and XSE trims of the 2024 Highlander are configured to seat seven passengers. These models utilize second-row captain’s chairs, which reduce overall seating to seven but increase comfort and accessibility for second-row occupants, and ease access to the third row. On the other hand, the LE model comes standard with seating for eight.
For those considering the XLE and Limited trims, Toyota provides flexibility. These models can be configured to seat either seven or eight passengers, allowing buyers to choose between the bench seat for eight or captain’s chairs for a seven-seat arrangement based on their needs.
Toyota Highlander Interior Space: Passenger and Cargo Volume
Beyond just the number of seats, the interior volume of the Toyota Highlander is crucial for passenger comfort and cargo utility. All 2024 Highlander models share the same impressive cargo space dimensions: 84.3 cubic feet behind the first row, 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and 16 cubic feet when all rows are in place.
Passenger volume varies slightly by trim, primarily due to the inclusion of a moonroof in some models. The LE trim offers the most passenger volume at 141.8 cubic feet. The XLE and XSE models, when equipped with a moonroof, provide 139.5 cubic feet of passenger volume. The Limited trim, also often featuring a moonroof, mirrors this with 139.5 cubic feet. The Platinum trim, with its moonroof and premium features, offers a comfortable 136.3 cubic feet of passenger volume.
A Closer Look at Seating Features by Trim
Each trim level of the 2024 Toyota Highlander not only offers different seating configurations but also distinct upholstery and comfort features.
LE Trim
The LE trim, designed for eight passengers, features fabric upholstery for the first and second rows. It includes an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a four-way manually adjustable passenger’s seat. Practicality is enhanced with a sliding and 60/40 reclining second-row bench seat, and a 60/40 folding third-row seat, maximizing versatility for passengers and cargo.
XLE Trim
Stepping up to the XLE trim introduces SofTex seat upholstery, heated front seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and an eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat. In the seven-passenger configuration, the XLE features comfortable second-row folding captain’s chairs and fold-flat third-row seats, blending comfort with luxury.
XSE Trim
The XSE trim mirrors the XLE in seating features but adds sporty styling and interior enhancements like ambient interior lighting, a HomeLink garage door opener, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and wireless charging, enhancing the overall driving experience. It maintains the seven-passenger seating arrangement with captain’s chairs.
Limited Trim
The Limited trim elevates luxury with standard leather seating material and three-zone automatic climate control. It offers second-row folding captain’s chairs with folding armrests, and a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat with reclining function in its seven-seater configuration, with an option for an eight-seater bench.
Platinum Trim
The top-of-the-line Platinum trim features leather-trimmed front and second-row seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support and seat memory, and an eight-way power-adjustable passenger’s seat. Front-row seats are heated and ventilated, while second-row seats are heated, maximizing comfort. It also includes advanced tech features like a digital rearview mirror with HomeLink and Qi-compatible wireless charging, while maintaining seven-passenger seating.
Experience Highlander Seating in Person
The best way to understand the versatility and comfort of the Toyota Highlander’s seating is to experience it firsthand. With various configurations and trim-specific features, the 2024 Highlander is designed to meet a wide range of needs. Visit your local Toyota dealership to explore the different models and seating options and find the perfect Highlander to fit your lifestyle.
