Looking for an SUV that seamlessly blends roominess, tech, style, and modern efficiency? The 2026 Toyota Highlander (and its larger sibling, the 2026 Grand Highlander) lands with a splash, promising to be your next road trip hero and commute companion. Whether you’re ferrying the soccer team, zipping around town, or ready for that epic vacation, Toyota’s latest Highlander brings major updates that feel tailor-made for today’s SUV buyers.
Totally Revamped – Here’s What’s New in the 2026 Toyota Highlander
After a solid run since 2020, the Highlander gets a real shakeup for 2026. Forget everything you know about this SUV; Toyota’s gone bold, especially when it comes to tech and efficiency.
All Hybrid, All the Time
Wave goodbye to the old-school gasoline-only engines: the 2026 Highlander pushes Toyota’s electrification strategy forward, now offered exclusively as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid. The standard setup pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, good for about 243 horsepower and a combined 35 mpg (hello, fuel savings!). If you’re more performance-inclined, check out the Hybrid Max powertrain—a 2.4-liter turbo-four paired with electric motors for a heart-thumping 362 horsepower and surprising agility for a three-row SUV, all while still netting a respectable 26–27 mpg.
Modern, Comfortable, Spacious
Toyota knows families need space, so both the Highlander and Grand Highlander offer true three-row versatility. The Grand version steps up with an adult-friendly third row and a max cargo capacity of 97.5 cu. ft. when the rear seats are folded. In the regular Highlander, the third row is more for kids, but the ride is comfy, visibility is excellent, and there’s still room for everyone’s gear. You’ll love the tri-zone climate control, upgraded interior finishes, and a redesigned digital cockpit that flows straight from the gauge cluster to the infotainment screen.
Next-Level Tech (Without the Learning Curve)
Fans of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rejoice—they’re standard in the Highlander, which now gets a larger touchscreen (up to 12.3 inches in the Grand Highlander) with a fresh, clean interface and cloud-based navigation. Depending on the trim, you’ll also find:
- Digital rearview mirror
- Head-up display
- Wireless charging
- Intuitive voice commands Safety Comes Standard
Toyota piles on its latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 in all trims, bringing features like:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane tracing assist
- Road sign assist and auto high beams
Add in available Traffic Jam Assist and Proactive Driving Assist for a seriously stress-free drive.
Pricing and Trim Breakdown
Need versatility? Toyota’s trim array has your back. The distinct models stack like this:
| Trim | Starting Price (Highlander) | Starting Price (Grand Highlander) |
|---|---|---|
| LE | Low $40,000s (est.) | $42,855 |
| XLE | Mid $40,000s (est.) | $45,625 |
| Limited | High $40,000s–$50,000 | $50,355 |
| Platinum | Low $50,000s+ | $56,040 |
| Hybrid Versions | +~$1,750 Premium | $46,205+ |
Note: Plug-in hybrid and Hybrid Max trims command a premium, edging into the $50K–$60K zone. Look for the exclusive new Hybrid Nightshade for blackout badge and accent flair.
Driving Experience – Efficiency Meets Fun
Reviewers note the Highlander is nimble for its class, with solid handling, low road noise, and a suspension that absorbs most road bumps. The torque-vectoring AWD available on higher trims makes even slick roads a breeze. Going hybrid means most Highlander trims offer silent electric starts and major fuel savings—perfect for city errands or long hauls.
Is 2026 Toyota Highlander the Right SUV for You?
If you’re ready for the latest in hybrid tech, family-focused practicality, and a hit of luxury without straying into premium-brand prices, the 2026 Toyota Highlander is tough to beat. The only downside? The third row in the regular Highlander is still best for kids or short trips; upgrade to the Grand Highlander if adult-friendly space is a must. Either way, you get:
- Standout fuel efficiency
- Robust powertrain choices
- Top-tier safety tech
- Smart cabin layout
- Reliability that’s pure Toyota
Release Date — When Can You Buy the 2026 Toyota Highlander?
Expect the 2026 Highlander to hit dealerships in late 2025 or early 2026. Demand will likely be hot, especially as the push for hybrids ramps up and other competitors lag on electrification.
From soccer runs to weekend getaways, the 2026 Toyota Highlander covers every base with serious style and substance. Want a fuss-free, fuel-savvy, and spacious SUV? It’s ready to roll.