Updated Powertrains, Trims, and Tech Features in the 2026 Grand Highlander Model
Introducing the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander SUV: A Family-Friendly Vehicle with Advanced Technology
Toyota has unveiled its latest offering, the 2026 Grand Highlander SUV, marking its third model year. The Grand Highlander is assembled at Toyota's Princeton, Indiana facility, alongside the Sienna, Highlander, and Lexus TX.
The Grand Highlander boasts a spacious, family-friendly interior with adult-sized third-row seating for 7 or 8 passengers and a large cargo capacity of 97.5 cubic feet when rear seats are folded. It offers a quiet, premium cabin with amenities like a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, seven USB-C ports, and three-zone climate control.
Three powertrain choices are available for the 2026 Grand Highlander: a 2.4-liter turbocharged gas engine, a 2.5-liter hybrid system, and a Hybrid MAX variant. The Hybrid MAX combines strong performance and AWD capability, delivering 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft torque with a 5,000-lb towing capacity.
The Grand Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of safety features including pre-collision warnings, lane departure alerts, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features include enhanced lane detection using 3D objects and an emergency stop function if the driver becomes unresponsive.
Smartphone integration is seamless with standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM compatibility. The Grand Highlander's audio system includes the option for an available JBL® Premium Audio system with 11 speakers and Clari-Fi® audio enhancement technology.
The Grand Highlander's platform is a stretched version of Toyota's TNGA-K architecture, providing a long wheelbase of 116.1 inches. The SUV features a muscular yet refined profile and a bold front grille.
Trim levels span LE, XLE, Limited, Hybrid Nightshade, and Platinum, with FWD standard on most trims and AWD available or standard depending on the model. The Grand Highlander is assembled in the USA at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana.
The 2026 Grand Highlander's technology includes Toyota's Traffic Jam Assist, exclusive to the Platinum grade. A complimentary one-year trial of Drive Connect is offered, which includes Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. The available Wi-Fi Connect service turns the Grand Highlander into a rolling 4G hotspot for up to five devices.
The Grand Highlander's starting price begins at $41,360 for the LE with the gas engine, rising to $44,710 for the standard hybrid, and topping out at $55,190 for the Hybrid MAX Limited trim. The SUV offers a variety of exterior styling options, including the newly introduced Hybrid Nightshade edition and the Platinum Hybrid MAX's exclusive Ultrasuede-trimmed seats and bronze interior accents.
Safety Connect offers 24/7 emergency services and remote features via the Toyota app, including Remote Connect capabilities. When necessary, the 2026 Grand Highlander can provide up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space.
[1] Toyota's Official Grand Highlander Website [2] Car and Driver's Review of the 2026 Grand Highlander [3] Edmunds' Review of the 2026 Grand Highlander [4] Consumer Reports' Review of the 2026 Grand Highlander [5] MotorTrend's Review of the 2026 Grand Highlander
- The 2026 Grand Highlander, with its advanced safety features like Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, aims to enhance both the driving experience and overall safety for families.
- The integration of smartphone technology, such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, adds to the convenience and entertainment inside the Grand Highlander's quiet, premium cabin.
- With varying trim levels, smart financing options, and a starting price of $41,360, the 2026 Grand Highlander's fusion of technology, lifestyle, and affordability makes it a topic of interest in general-news and sports discussions.
