What’s New & Design Updates for 2026
Toyota’s public remarks suggest that 2026 sees mostly incremental changes over the 2025 model, rather than a full redesign.Some observable updates include:
- A modest price increase of around US$500 across trims.
- Retention of core design elements, though slight styling tweaks (e.g. updated LED lighting signatures or wheel designs) may appear in select trims.
- Refinements in interior materials, software, and cabin calibration rather than wholesale layout changes.
- Continuation of the set of powertrain options (gas, hybrid, Hybrid Max) with potential tuning and drivetrain refinements.
Thus, 2026 is more an evolution than a revolution — aimed at tightening performance, improving livability, and staying competitive.
Drivetrain, Performance & Range Enhancements
Powertrain Options
The 2026 Grand Highlander offers three main drivetrain configurations:
- Gasoline (Turbo 2.4L)
- A turbocharged 2.4-litre inline-4 (D-4S injection, Dual VVT-i) produces ~265 horsepower and ~310 lb-ft of torque.
- This engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission (Direct Shift-8AT).
- Front-wheel drive is standard on base trims (LE, XLE, Limited), with all-wheel drive (Dynamic Torque Control AWD) optional or standard depending on the trim.
- Hybrid (2.5L + electric motors)
- A naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder combined with electric motors yields ~245 horsepower system output.
- Transmission: Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT).
- All-wheel drive is available (or standard on some trims).
- In some conditions, the hybrid system may allow limited low-speed EV driving (~20 mph) in certain trims.
- Hybrid Max (Performance Hybrid)
- Combines the 2.4L turbo engine with electric assistance for a total system output of ~362 horsepower and ~400 lb-ft of torque.
- Uses a 6-speed transmission (Direct Shift-6AT).
- All-wheel drive is standard in Hybrid Max form.
- Fuel efficiency for this variant is lower (given greater power output), but Toyota aims to retain respectable consumption figures.
Toyota’s press documentation describes how Dynamic Torque Control AWD in gas models employs an electromagnetic coupling ahead of the rear differential to distribute torque as needed, improving traction and driving stability.
Performance & Acceleration
- In Car & Driver’s 2025 test, the nonhybrid Grand Highlander reached 0–60 mph in 7.0 seconds.
- The hybrid and Hybrid Max variants are expected to further refine acceleration and drivability — though specific 0–60 times for 2026 have yet to be publicly confirmed.
- Handling is tuned for comfort and stability rather than sporty precision, befitting a large family SUV. The AWD system helps in variable conditions.
- Toyota also supports drive modes such as Eco, Normal, and Sport in many trims, allowing drivers to tailor throttle response, shift behavior, and energy use. MySA
Fuel Economy / Efficiency & Range
- The standard hybrid version is estimated to deliver up to 36 mpg combined (city/highway) in ideal conditions.
- The Hybrid Max version is estimated to achieve ~27 mpg combined given its higher performance output.
- Gasoline-only variants are less efficient: EPA estimates for FWD ~21 city / 28 highway / 24 combined (for nonhybrid trims) have been cited by some sources.
- Toyota emphasizes that the hybrid configurations are designed for real-world efficiency gains, particularly in urban and suburban driving where electric assist and regenerative braking help significantly.
- Because the Grand Highlander is not a plug-in hybrid, it does not require external charging; it relies on regenerative systems to recharge its hybrid battery pack.
In all, the performance/fuel economy balance is a key selling point: buyers wanting efficiency will lean toward the hybrid option, while those wanting power will opt for Hybrid Max, accepting the consumption tradeoff.
Interior, Technology, Comfort & Cargo
Cabin Layout & Comfort
- The Grand Highlander is designed to comfortably seat seven or eight passengers, depending on trim/configuration.
- Third-row legroom is greater than in the standard Highlander; Toyota advertises improved comfort for adults compared to more cramped third-row SUVs.
- Cargo capacity is generous: up to 97.5 cubic feet (with all rear seats folded) in the 2026 model.
- With all seats in use, Toyota claims space for seven small roller bags.
- The second row may feature captain’s chairs or bench seating depending on trim; in higher-end versions, the second row is even removable or reconfigurable.
- Soft-touch materials, padded surfaces in key touch zones, ambient lighting, and refined trim are hallmarks of higher trims.
- Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) control is solid in normal driving, though some reviewers note that wind or road noise becomes more audible at highway speeds.
Infotainment & Technology
- The base infotainment screen is 8 inches, while higher trims upgrade to a 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
- A digital instrument cluster is available in larger formats (~12.3 in fully digital versions) in more premium trim levels.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported on many trims.
- Multiple USB-C ports are present across all three rows, and wireless charging is standard in many trims.
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates, improved responsiveness in UI, and enhanced voice recognition capabilities are expected refinements for 2026.
- Higher trims may include a head-up display, premium audio systems, ambient lighting, and improved connectivity features (Wi-Fi hotspot, app controls, etc.).
Space & Cargo
- With all seats in place, cargo behind the third row is approx. 20.6 cubic feet (in earlier models).
- Folding the third row expands space behind the second row to ~57.9 cubic feet.
- With both second and third rows folded, the maximum volume reaches ~97.5 cubic feet.
- The Grand Highlander achieves better cargo and interior volume compared to the regular Highlander model thanks to extra length and wheelbase.
In practice, these dimensions give families flexibility to haul gear, luggage, or large items, and better functional load plans than many rivals in its class.
Pricing, Availability & How to Reserve
Expected Starting Price & MSRP
- The 2026 Grand Highlander pricing is projected to start at US $42,855 for the base gas (LE) version.
- Trim pricing (for gas versions) is expected as follows:
- LE: $42,855
- XLE: $45,625
- Limited: $50,455
- Platinum: $56,040
- All prices are expected to reflect about a $500 increase over 2025.
- Hybrid models (LE, XLE hybrid, etc.) are anticipated to command a premium over gas variants, though Toyota has not confirmed full 2026 hybrid MSRP yet.
Strengths, Weaknesses & Competitive Landscape
What Reviewers & Owners Praise
Pros:
- Spacious three-row seating that is more usable for adults than many rivals.
- Strong hybrid efficiency without major performance compromises in most driving conditions.
- Sophisticated standard safety suite and modern tech features.
- Comfortable ride quality, especially in front and middle rows.
- Impressive cargo volume and flexibility, especially when folding seats down.
Cons / Potential Drawbacks:
- Cabin noise at highway speeds is noted in multiple reviews — wind and road intrusion become more prominent.
- The vehicle’s styling is generally safe (i.e. not daring), lacking a standout design identity.
- Power reserves under full load or steep grades may be taxed in nonhybrid versions.
- Hybrid Max’s efficiency is notably lower than the standard hybrid, which may deter buyers who prioritize economy.
- Initial allocation constraints for high-demand trims could limit immediate availability.
Competitor Comparison
- Key rivals include the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-90, Chevrolet Traverse, and Ford Explorer.
- Compared with the Palisade hybrid, the Grand Highlander’s most efficient setup (245 hp hybrid) is more economical (33–36 mpg) but with lower power output than some Palisade variants.
- Against gas-only three-row SUVs, the hybrid variants have a fuel economy advantage.
- Some competitors offer bolder styling or more aggressive driving dynamics, so the Grand Highlander leans more toward balanced family use over sporty positioning.