The 2026 Toyota Highlander has arrived, bringing fresh updates to one of America’s favorite family SUVs. Toyota keeps things practical and reliable while adding modern touches that make everyday driving feel a bit more special. Whether you’re hauling kids to soccer practice or heading out for a weekend getaway, this three-row midsize SUV continues to deliver the space, safety, and efficiency families love.
Sleek Modern Styling That Turns Heads
Toyota gave the 2026 Highlander a sharper, more contemporary look without going overboard. The front end features a bolder grille, sleeker LED headlights, and cleaner body lines that give it a confident, aerodynamic vibe. From the side, sculpted contours and updated wheel designs add some premium flair, while the rear gets refreshed taillights and subtle details for a polished finish. It’s still unmistakably a Highlander—rugged enough for light adventures but stylish enough to fit right in at school drop-off or the office parking lot.
Family-Friendly Interior Packed with Comfort
Step inside, and the Highlander feels welcoming and thoughtful. The cabin offers seating for up to eight (or seven with captain’s chairs), plenty of legroom across all rows, and flexible seating that folds flat for extra cargo space. Soft-touch materials, supportive seats, and smart storage spots make long trips more enjoyable. Tech-wise, you get an available 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus handy features like wireless charging and multiple USB ports. It’s designed for real life—easy to clean, comfortable for everyone, and loaded with the connectivity families rely on today.
Eco-Friendly Powertrain Options for Better Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2026 Highlander offers solid choices that balance power and fuel savings. The gas version pairs a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid delivers impressive efficiency without sacrificing smooth performance. All gas models now come standard with all-wheel drive for better traction in rain, snow, or rough roads. Toyota’s focus on hybrid tech means lower fuel costs and a quieter ride—perfect for those who want to be kinder to the planet and their wallet.
Here are the key specifications for the 2026 Toyota Highlander:
| Feature | Gas Model | Hybrid Model |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 2.5L 4-Cylinder + Electric Motors |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 243 hp (combined) |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | Varies (strong low-end pull) |
| Drivetrain | Standard All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Economy (Est.) | 21 city / 28 hwy mpg | Up to 35-36 combined mpg |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 3,500 lbs |
| Seating/Cargo | 7-8 passengers / Up to 84 cu ft | Same spacious layout |
| Infotainment | 8-inch standard, 12.3-inch available | Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
Top Safety Features You Can Count On
Safety remains a huge priority, and the 2026 Highlander comes loaded with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. Standard goodies include pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Higher trims add blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. It’s the kind of peace-of-mind tech that helps avoid trouble before it happens—ideal for busy parents juggling traffic and kids in the back.
Overall, the 2026 Toyota Highlander strikes a great balance: modern looks, family-focused comfort, eco-conscious power options, and Toyota’s legendary reliability. Starting around $45,000 for well-equipped trims, it remains a smart pick in the crowded midsize SUV segment. If you’re shopping for a versatile three-row that won’t let you down, this updated Highlander is definitely worth a test drive at your local dealer.