Updated powertrains, trims, and technology in the 2026 Grand Highlander models
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers a blend of power, space, and modern convenience for families. With three powertrain options, adult-sized third-row seating, and a spacious interior, this SUV is designed to cater to the needs of various drivers.
Key Features and Specifications
The Grand Highlander comes with three powertrain options: a 2.4-liter turbocharged gas engine, a 2.5-liter hybrid system, and a Hybrid MAX variant. The gas engine delivers 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft torque, while the hybrid system offers a combined output of 245 horsepower. The Hybrid MAX powertrain, available on the Platinum grade and as an option on the Limited, combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with an electric motor to deliver 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft torque [1][3].
The Grand Highlander's platform, a stretched version of Toyota's TNGA-K architecture, provides a long wheelbase of 116.1 inches, ensuring ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. The third row offers 33.5 inches of legroom and 37.2 inches of headroom, allowing adult-sized seating for up to eight passengers [3][5].
Exterior and Convenience
The Grand Highlander boasts a muscular yet refined profile with a trapezoidal grille, hammerhead nose, flared fenders, and sharp rear arches. Standard features include 20-inch wheels on higher trims, LED lighting for daytime running lights, headlights, fog lights, taillights, rain-sensing windshield wipers with de-icer and rear wiper functionality, privacy glass on rear windows, power-folding heated outside mirrors with blind spot indicators, roof rails with silver paint accents, and dual exhaust on the Hybrid MAX Platinum trim [1][2].
Interior and Comfort
The Grand Highlander's cabin is spacious, seating 7-8 passengers depending on configuration. It features three-zone automatic climate control with air filtration and separate controls for front, second, and rear passengers. Acoustic noise-reducing front windshield and side windows ensure a quiet cabin, while the driver’s seat memory function (preset positions) adds a personal touch [2]. The Grand Highlander offers a large cargo space of 97.5 cubic feet with rear seats folded [3].
Technology and Safety
The Grand Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of safety features including pre-collision warnings, lane departure alerts, adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and proactive driving assistance. Advanced features such as traffic jam assist, head-up display, and digital rearview mirror are available [3].
The Grand Highlander also offers a Wi-Fi Connect service, turning it into a rolling 4G hotspot for up to five devices. Safety Connect offers 24/7 emergency services and remote features via the Toyota app, including Remote Connect capabilities [3].
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Grand Highlander is available in five trims: LE, XLE, Limited, Hybrid Nightshade, and Platinum. Pricing starts at approximately $44,455 for the Grand Highlander LE AWD and can go higher depending on trim and powertrain [5].
The Hybrid Nightshade edition applies a suite of blacked-out elements to the vehicle's grille, wheels, mirrors, and roof rails. The Platinum grade features Toyota's Traffic Jam Assist, which aids in congested traffic on limited access roads [3].
Manufacturing
The 2026 Grand Highlander will be assembled in the USA at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana [3].
In conclusion, the 2026 Grand Highlander prioritizes strong performance with choices that balance fuel economy and power, spacious and flexible interior for families, and modern convenience and safety technologies. The hybrid MAX powertrain stands out for delivering high horsepower combined with AWD capability.
- The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander, equipped with smartphone integration and safety features like Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, seamlessly integrates technology into family lifestyle, providing a blend of power, space, and modern convenience.
- With its sporty design and offered amenities such as a Wi-Fi Connect service, the Grand Highlander embodies the merging of technology and sports, making it an appealing choice for tech-savvy individuals and sport enthusiasts.
