Toyota Prius and Toyota Grand Highlander Crowned AJAC’s 2024 Canadian Car and Utility Vehicle of the Year

February 16 2024,

Toyota Prius and Toyota Grand Highlander Crowned AJAC’s 2024 Canadian Car and Utility Vehicle of the Year

The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) has officially named the 2024 Toyota Prius as its Canadian Car of the Year and the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander as its Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year. These awards were announced at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, recognizing the outstanding achievements of Toyota in delivering vehicles that meet the needs and preferences of Canadian drivers.


The Toyota Prius, now in its fifth generation, continues to lead the way in hybrid technology, having been at the forefront of electrification since its debut. The Prius was introduced in 1997 in Japan, marking the world's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. By 2000, it was available in Canada, and since then, it has seen over 100,000 units sold within the country. The latest model impresses with its athletic silhouette, modern design, and a high-tech interior that comfortably accommodates up to five adults. It remains a testament to Toyota's commitment to style, performance, efficiency, and advanced connectivity and safety technologies.


Cyril Dimitris, Vice President of Toyota Canada, expressed gratitude for the recognition, highlighting the Prius's role as a global ambassador for sustainable mobility. The award by AJAC reaffirms the Prius's position as a leading example of hybrid electric expertise combined with driving enjoyment and intelligent design.


On the other hand, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has been recognized as the Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year, catering to Canadians who prioritize spacious comfort and style for family and friends on their road trips. The Grand Highlander meets this demand with ample seating for seven to eight passengers, leading cargo space, and performance and efficiency that endures. This accolade underscores Toyota's dedication to offering a diverse range of vehicles that cater to the varied lifestyles of Canadian consumers.


The recognition of both the Prius and the Grand Highlander by AJAC not only celebrates Toyota's innovation in vehicle design and technology but also its promise to providing options that resonate with Canadian drivers. These awards highlight Toyota's ongoing dedication to excellence in automotive engineering, design, and sustainability, ensuring that every Canadian can find a vehicle that suits their needs.


In conclusion, the AJAC awards for the Toyota Prius and Toyota Grand Highlander are a significant achievement for Toyota Canada, reflecting its success in delivering vehicles that combine style, performance, and efficiency. 

Toyota Prius and Toyota Grand Highlander Crowned AJAC’s 2024 Canadian Car and Utility Vehicle of the Year

Other Articles That May Interest You

What Does GR Mean in Toyota Model Names? Racing DNA for Everyday Driving

April 18 2025

What Does GR Mean in Toyota Model Names? Racing DNA for Everyday Driving

When you see "GR" on a Toyota vehicle, you're looking at something special. More than just letters, GR represents Toyota GAZOO Racing, the high-performance division responsible for injecting racing DNA into Toyota's street-legal vehicles. Born from motorsport competition and refined on the world's most demanding tracks, these vehicles deliver an exhilarating driving experience that connects you...
Less Waiting, More Electric Driving: Fully Recharge the 2025 Toyota Prius PHEV in as Little as 4 Hours

April 10 2025

Less Waiting, More Electric Driving: Fully Recharge the 2025 Toyota Prius PHEV in as Little as 4 Hours

The 2025 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid brings efficiency and convenience together with its quick charging capabilities. With a full battery recharge in as little as four hours, you spend less time plugged in and more time enjoying electric-only driving. This fast charging feature, combined with an all-electric range of up to 72 kilometres, gives you the flexibility to handle most daily commutes...