Refined and Confident Design
Toyota hasn’t reinvented the Highlander for 2026, but it still looks sleek and sophisticated. The Platinum trim, the range-topping model, features refreshed LED lighting, a more polished grille, and new 20-inch wheels that enhance its premium stance.
It’s not the flashiest SUV out there — the Mazda CX-90 or Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy might attract more attention — but the Highlander’s balanced proportions and elegant lines give it quiet confidence. It’s an SUV that feels right at home anywhere, from city streets to long family road trips.
Interior: Comfort and Class
Inside, the 2026 Highlander Platinum offers a warm, high-quality cabin that balances luxury with practicality.Highlights:
- Premium perforated leather seats with contrast stitching
- Heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain’s chairs
- Panoramic moonroof
- Ambient lighting and soft-touch materials
- Dual 12.3-inch digital displays
- 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio System
Cabin storage is generous, and ergonomics are excellent. The third row remains best for kids, but it’s useful for occasional adult seating. With top-notch build quality and smart layout, it’s one of the most family-friendly interiors in the segment.
Performance: Smooth and Efficient
Power comes from Toyota’s 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, delivering 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. It replaces the old V6 with a more responsive and efficient character. The 8-speed automatic shifts smoothly, and AWD is standard on the Platinum, providing confident grip in all weather.Fuel Economy:
- City: ~22 mpg
- Highway: ~29 mpg
- Combined: ~25 mpg
On the road, the Platinum trim feels composed and quiet. Steering is light but precise, suspension comfort is excellent, and cabin insulation is among the best in its class. It’s tuned for comfort, not sportiness — perfect for long journeys and daily commuting alike.
Safety and Tech
The 2026 Highlander Platinum comes loaded with Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0, featuring:- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Proactive Driving Assist
A digital rearview mirror, Head-Up Display, and available traffic jam assist complete the tech package, making the Highlander Platinum easy and stress-free to drive.
Space and Practicality
Cargo space is strong for a midsize SUV:- 16 cu. ft. behind the third row
- 48 cu. ft. with it folded
- 84 cu. ft. total with all seats down
Value and Ownership
Starting around $52,000, the 2026 Highlander Platinum isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with comfort and technology. Rivals like the Kia Telluride SX Prestige and Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium offer more visual drama, but few can match Toyota’s reliability, resale value, and low maintenance costs.
Over time, the Highlander tends to age gracefully — its interior materials hold up, its tech remains relevant, and its mechanical durability is among the best in the segment. For buyers who plan to keep their SUV for many years, this matters more than any flashy gimmick.
| Model | Powertrain | MPG (Combined) | Starting Price | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander Platinum (2026) | 2.4L Turbo I4 AWD | 25 | ~$52K | Reliability, Comfort |
| Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium | 3.3L Turbo I6 | 25 | ~$54K | Driving Feel |
| Kia Telluride SX Prestige X-Pro | 3.8L V6 | 21 | ~$53K | Interior Design |
| Honda Pilot Elite | 3.5L V6 | 22 | ~$52.5K | Spacious Cabin |
| Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy | 3.8L V6 | 22 | ~$53K | Luxury Features |
The Highlander sits right in the sweet spot — efficient, refined, and dependable — without the complexity or cost of plug-in hybrids or sporty rivals.
Final Verdict: Still a Great Choice?
Absolutely. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Platinum isn’t a revolution, but it’s a near-perfect evolution. It keeps everything buyers already love — comfort, safety, efficiency, and long-term dependability — while refining the formula with modern tech and style.
If you’re looking for a three-row SUV that simply works, one that feels premium yet practical, the Highlander Platinum remains a top pick.
It’s not the sportiest or boldest SUV, but for families who value peace of mind and everyday refinement, it’s still one of the smartest purchases of 2026.
Verdict Summary:
Premium, quiet, and comfortable cabin Strong turbo engine with great efficiency Excellent safety tech and reliability High resale value
Tight third row Less exciting to drive than some rivalsFinal Rating:
9/10 — A timeless, trustworthy SUV that keeps getting better.