What Toyota says about its two 2024 Canadian Car of the Year awards

The Prius was named Canadian Car of the Year and the Grand Highlander was named the Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year

Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius was named Canadian Car of the Year. – Toyota Canada Inc. photo

The people at Toyota Canada have reason to celebrate after the company’s vehicles won two 2024 Canadian Car of the Year awards.

The Prius was named Canadian Car of the Year and the Grand Highlander was named the Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year.

The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada announced the winners Feb. 15 at the Canadian International AutoShow. The other two winners were the Genesis Electrified G80 as the Canadian Electric Car of the Year, and Genesis Electrified GV70, which won the Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year.

Toyota Canada responded via news release shortly after the winners were announced. Here’s what its officials have to say.

Regarding Prius

“When the Prius started the electrification revolution almost a quarter-century ago, it quickly became the global ambassador for sustainable mobility – and the new, fifth generation Prius continues to inspire with its unbeatable blend of style, the driving fun of a well-engineered car, the efficiency of Toyota’s industry-leading hybrid electric expertise, and the intelligence of our advanced connectivity and active safety technologies. Everyone at Toyota Canada is thrilled that the members of AJAC agree – and we thank them for this important award.” – Cyril Dimitris, vice president, Toyota Canada Inc.

The Prius was redesigned for 2024, and features a 196 hp hybrid powertrain, electronic on-demand all-wheel drive and has a fuel efficiency rating of 4.8L/100km city/highway combined.

Regarding Grand Highlander

“As the last full-line automaker in the industry, Toyota remains committed to ensuring every Canadian can find the right vehicle for their lifestyle – including those who require comfortable seating for seven or eight, top of segment cargo space, and performance and efficiency that goes the distance. That’s what we deliver in the Toyota Grand Highlander – and everyone at Toyota Canada is thrilled that the members of AJAC have recognized our commitment with this important award.” – Cyril Dimitris, vice president, Toyota Canada Inc.

The 2024 Grand Highlander is available with three powertrain choices, including a hybrid system with 362 hp and 5,000-pound towing rating, a second hybrid option with 243 hp and impressive fuel efficiency, and a turbocharged gas powertrain with 265 hp. All variants come with all-wheel drive.

Toyota says even if all seven seats are filled, there’s enough cargo space behind the third row seats for seven carry-on suitcases.

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