Eye-Catching Refresh on the Outside
The 2026 Toyota Highlander rolls out with a fresh face that turns heads without going overboard. Toyota gave it a sleeker front end, pulling cues from the bigger Grand Highlander model. Think thinner headlights tied together by a slim LED strip that lights up the road like a pro. The body lines flow smoother now, making the whole SUV look a bit more grown-up and ready for family adventures. It’s still got that tough, everyday vibe families love, but with a modern twist that says it’s keeping up with the times. At about 194 inches long, it fits right in the garage while hauling up to eight folks inside.
Punchy Engines for Easy Drives
Under the hood, the Highlander steps up its game with a zippy 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine on gas models. This setup cranks out 265 horsepower and a strong 310 pound-feet of torque, so merging onto the highway feels smooth and confident. All gas versions now come with standard all-wheel drive, which means better grip in rain or light snow without extra hassle. For those chasing better miles per gallon, the hybrid option pairs a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors for 243 total horses and up to 35 mpg in the city and on the highway. It’s quiet when you want it and peppy when you need it, perfect for school runs or weekend getaways.
Here’s a quick peek at the powertrain basics:
| Powertrain Type | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Est. MPG (City/Hwy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas (2.4L Turbo) | 265 | 310 | 22/29 |
| Hybrid (2.5L) | 243 | 175 | 35/35 |
Roomy Inside with Family-Friendly Touches
Step inside, and the cabin feels like a cozy living room on wheels. SofTex or leather seats wrap you in comfort, with plenty of room for tall teens in the second row and even some space left for cargo behind the third. Toyota bumped up the storage with smarter spots for snacks and gear, and the third row folds flat for up to 84 cubic feet of hauling space. Three-zone climate control keeps everyone happy, no arguments over the temp. Wireless charging pads and seven USB-C ports mean devices stay powered, and the seats heat up or cool down on higher trims for those hot summer stops.
Tech That Keeps Things Simple and Safe
The 2026 Highlander shines with tech that doesn’t overwhelm. Every model gets an 8-inch touchscreen for the basics, but jump to a higher trim for the 12.3-inch version that runs Apple’s CarPlay and Android Auto like a charm. Over-the-air updates keep the software fresh without a shop visit, and a digital rearview mirror lets you peek behind without twisting. Safety leads the pack with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including auto braking, lane keeping, and blind-spot alerts. Add in eight airbags and rear cross-traffic warnings, and it’s got your back on busy streets. One cool add-on is the hands-free liftgate, so you can pop the trunk with a foot wave while your hands are full.
Why It’s a Smart Pick for 2026
Starting around $40,000 for the base LE trim, the 2026 Highlander hits dealerships this fall and offers real value for busy families. It balances power, space, and smarts without breaking the bank, and that standard AWD on gas models seals the deal for all-weather peace of mind. Sure, the third row is best for kids, not adults on long hauls, but for most folks, it’s just right. Toyota backs it with two years of free maintenance and a solid warranty, especially on hybrids. If you’re shopping midsize SUVs, this one’s a winner that blends old-school reliability with new-school perks. Head to your local dealer soon to snag one before they’re gone.