Ford has embarked on its inaugural global marketing endeavor in more than ten years, with the overarching theme, 'Ready Set Ford'. This initiative aims to resonate with customers by highlighting the emotional connection between individuals and their vehicles, a strategic move designed to reinforce the brand's position in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. The campaign's initial rollout in the U.S. market, coinciding with a high-profile broadcast, marks the beginning of its worldwide distribution across over 100 operating markets.

A core aspect of this campaign is its focus on diverse consumer lifestyles, moving beyond mere product specifications. Ford intends to spotlight distinct customer segments: the industrious individuals who opt for vehicles like the F-Series and Maverick pickups, the thrill-seekers drawn to performance models such as the Mustang, and the adventurous explorers who choose vehicles like the Bronco, Ranger, and Expedition. This tailored approach seeks to showcase the value and versatility of Ford's lineup through the lens of genuine user experiences.

Despite its global reach and unified tagline, the 'Ready Set Ford' campaign acknowledges regional differences in consumer preferences, allowing for localized marketing efforts where necessary. While the campaign is a long-term commitment, quality remains a critical area of focus for Ford, with ongoing efforts to address and improve vehicle reliability. The ultimate goal is to firmly establish Ford in the minds of prospective buyers, building on its already strong customer loyalty, particularly evident in the U.S. market.

Ford's strategic global marketing initiative, 'Ready Set Ford,' represents a forward-thinking approach to brand engagement. By emphasizing the intrinsic link between vehicles and human aspirations, Ford not only aims to solidify its market presence but also champions the spirit of innovation and adaptability. This campaign serves as a powerful reminder that in a world of constant change, forging meaningful connections and continuously striving for excellence are key to enduring success.

The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Nightshade Hybrid enters the automotive market as a promising contender in the large SUV segment, inheriting a shared platform with the Lexus TX. This vehicle aims to address the long-standing demand for increased third-row space in Toyota's Highlander series, offering a more accommodating interior and impressive fuel efficiency for its size. Positioned at a price point just shy of $57,000, this review provides a thorough analysis of its capabilities, from driving ease and hybrid powertrain performance to passenger and cargo capacity, ultimately weighing its perceived value against its cost and against other vehicles in its class. The detailed observations aim to help potential buyers determine if this spacious and efficient family hauler truly lives up to its expectations.

Since its inception in 2001, the Toyota Highlander has been a remarkable commercial success, particularly as a hybrid three-row SUV since 2006. However, a persistent critique has revolved around its cramped third-row seating. Recognizing this customer feedback, Toyota introduced the Grand Highlander, a significantly larger and more accommodating alternative designed to appeal to families needing more space without committing to a minivan. This strategic move aims to cater to those who prefer an SUV's versatility but require enhanced passenger comfort, especially in the rearmost seats.

During a week-long test drive with two young children, the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Nightshade Hybrid quickly demonstrated its appeal, particularly its ability to deliver over 30 miles per gallon (MPG) in a full-sized, all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid SUV priced under $60,000. Despite initial skepticism regarding its performance with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 243 combined horsepower, the vehicle proved surprisingly capable and agile. The integration of the hybrid system facilitated smooth acceleration and effortless maneuverability, even in tight urban settings. The reviewer noted that the vehicle, despite its substantial dimensions, handled with unexpected ease, making everyday tasks like parking less daunting than anticipated. Its efficient fuel consumption, especially considering its 17.2-gallon tank providing a range of nearly 500 miles, emerged as a significant benefit for family transportation, justifying its value proposition.

A notable aspect of the Grand Highlander is its surprisingly manageable driving experience, despite its considerable size. Measuring over 200 inches in length, the vehicle's large footprint initially raised concerns about navigating narrow streets and parking. However, the reviewer found it remarkably easy to maneuver, even backing into challenging parking spaces using only side mirrors. This unexpected agility, attributed partly to its hybrid powertrain that provides immediate torque from a standstill, dispelled any preconceptions about large SUVs being cumbersome. The effortless handling made it easy to forget the vehicle's actual size until it was observed next to smaller cars, highlighting a key advantage for daily usability.

The interior of the Grand Highlander excels in passenger accommodation, particularly for families. The installation of child safety seats was straightforward, and the generous legroom in both the second and third rows was impressive. The inclusion of tilt-and-slide captain's chairs in the second row allows for easy access to the third row, even with car seats in place—a feature not commonly found in many three-row SUVs. Furthermore, the cargo area behind the third row offers a respectable 20.6 cubic feet of space, sufficient for groceries and small luggage. While larger cargo might require additional carriers, the overall spaciousness makes it an ideal choice for families requiring ample room for both passengers and their belongings.

When comparing pricing, the Grand Highlander presents a compelling argument against the standard Highlander. The Grand Highlander Nightshade, with every available option, comes in at approximately $56,810, which is only slightly more expensive than the Highlander Hybrid Platinum's starting price of $54,475. For this marginal increase, buyers gain substantial advantages, including 4.5 cubic feet of additional trunk space and 5.5 inches more legroom in the third row, along with standard all-wheel drive, all without a significant compromise in fuel efficiency. Even the higher-tier Hybrid Max versions, offering a robust 362 horsepower compared to the standard 243, maintain competitive pricing. This demonstrates that the Grand Highlander offers considerable added value, making it a highly attractive option for its cost.

Ultimately, the Grand Highlander proves to be a worthwhile investment. Compared to its competitors, such as the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy Night, or the Lexus TX, it stands out for its balanced offering of space, efficiency, and driving comfort. While it might be oversized for smaller families, its generous third-row legroom makes it perfectly suited for those with multiple children or for grandparents who frequently transport several grandchildren. Its ability to accommodate car seats with ease and offer versatile cargo configurations by folding down the third row further enhances its practicality. The Grand Highlander effectively fills a niche for those seeking a highly functional and spacious family vehicle that avoids the traditional minivan stereotype.