2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
Overview
Toyota earned a spot on the Car and Driver Editor's Choice List in 2025 with the Grand Highlander. Although still a mid-size, three-row crossover with a car-based unitized body, the Grand Highlander is big, with lots of leg room and cargo space. In fact, it’s the second-largest SUV in Toyota’s lineup. Nevertheless, it has decent fuel economy and nimble driving dynamics. It's one of the most compelling choices in the midsize SUV segment, boasting incredible reliability, safety, and versatility.
|
|---|
Quick Specs
- MSRP – Starting at $41,360*
- Powertrains – Gas, Hybrid, or Hybrid MAX
- Seating Capacity – Up to 8
- Cargo Capacity – Up to 97.5 cubic feet
- Towing – Up to 5,000 pounds
- Safety – Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
Who’s It For?
Toyota designed the Grand Highlander with families in mind—and drivers who don’t want hassles when loading and unloading the kids and their gear. Access is hassle-free, for example, with such amenities as a step-down well for easy ingress into the third row. With respectable mpg stats even in the gas version and impressive fuel economy for the hybrid, the Grand Highlander can double as a commuter car (whether hauling the kids to soccer practice or handling carpool duties for adults) and a weekend getaway vehicle, with enough towing capacity for the average trailer and an AWD option for twisty country roads.
Real World Performance
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander gives drivers three strong powertrain choices to match their needs. The standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with an 8-speed automatic, while a 2.5-liter hybrid balances efficiency and capability with 245 horsepower through an eCVT. For maximum performance, the Hybrid MAX pairs the turbo engine with electrification to produce 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, teamed with a 6-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive.
Depending on the setup, the Grand Highlander can tow between 3,500 and 5,000 pounds, making it versatile enough for family adventures or weekend toys. Drivers can choose front-wheel drive or advanced all-wheel drive systems, including available Multi-Terrain Select with modes for snow, mud, sand, and more. A multi-link rear suspension and well-tuned chassis deliver confident handling and a comfortable ride, while selectable drive modes let you dial in the performance to suit every trip.
Key Features (Standard and Available)
Comfort and Technology
- Power Liftgate
- Heated front- and second-row seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Second-row sunshades
- Wireless charging
- Heated mirrors
- 7 USB ports (A and C)
- 13 cupholders, including one for a large water bottle
- 7” driver information display on XLE
- 12.3” driver info display on higher trims
- 12” infotainment touchscreen
- Wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®
- Moonroof
Safety and Driver Assistance
- Automated emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-departure warning
- Lane-keeping assist
- Lane-centering technology
- Traffic jam assist with hands-free driving at low speeds
- Road sign recognition
- Automatic high beams
Alternative Options
Drivers who love the Grand Highlander but plan for more rugged use might prefer the less luxe but incredibly popular Highlander. If you want to spend as much time off-road as you do on, consider the Toyota 4Runner. Not sure which model will be best for you? Contact the Client team! Our talented sales professionals can guide you through the entire process.
Image Credit: Toyota
**Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.