The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is designed for U.S. families who want more space, more tech, and more power than the standard Highlander. With three powertrain choices, a roomy third row, and family-friendly features, it’s positioned as one of the strongest three-row SUVs in its segment. Let’s break down what makes it stand out.
What’s New in the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
Toyota has taken the Highlander formula and expanded it. The 2026 Grand Highlander offers:
- A longer, wider body for real third-row comfort
- Hybrid and Hybrid MAX powertrains for fuel efficiency or performance
- Upgraded safety tech and infotainment
- A cargo space that challenges even full-size SUVs
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2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Interior and Comfort
Inside the Grand Highlander 2026, families get exactly what they’ve been asking for:
- Comfortable seating for up to eight passengers
- A usable third row with enough legroom for adults
- Premium touches like available leather seats and a panoramic roof
- Tri-zone climate control, multiple USB-C ports, and wireless charging
This isn’t just a stretched SUV — it feels like it was designed around real-life family needs.
Performance and Fuel Economy of the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
The 2026 Grand Highlander is available with three engine options:
- 2.4L Turbo Gas: Solid daily performance, good highway passing power
- 2.5L Hybrid: Delivers over 30 MPG combined, ideal for efficiency-minded buyers
- Hybrid MAX: Around 362 horsepower with standard AWD, perfect for towing and highway confidence
Ride quality is smooth and quiet, making long road trips less tiring.
Safety and Technology in the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
Safety comes standard. Every Grand Highlander 2026 includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which bundles automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and more.
Tech highlights:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Available head-up display and premium audio system
- Multiple charging ports and wireless phone charging
Pricing and Trim Levels
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander lineup starts in the low $40,000s and goes beyond $60,000 for fully loaded Platinum Hybrid MAX trims. Buyers can choose between practical LE/XLE trims, tech-rich Limited models, or luxury-oriented Platinum.
Pros and Cons of the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
Pros
- Spacious interior with real third-row usability
- Hybrid efficiency and strong towing power
- Standard safety tech across all trims
- Premium comfort features in higher trims
Cons
- Higher trims can get pricey quickly
- Hybrid MAX trades some fuel economy for power
- Big size can be tricky in tight parking
Final Verdict: Is the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Worth It?
For American families who need space without sacrificing efficiency or tech, the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is a top contender. It’s not the cheapest SUV in its class, but it delivers practicality, safety, and Toyota reliability — all in one package.