The 2026 Toyota Highlander has officially hit the scene, and it’s got families across the country buzzing. Toyota refreshed its popular three-row midsize SUV with some smart updates that make it even more practical for everyday American life—think road trips, school runs, and weekend getaways.
While it’s not a full redesign, the changes feel meaningful: standard all-wheel drive on gas models, a streamlined lineup, and that same reliable Toyota vibe we all know and love. If you’re in the market for a versatile 7-seater that balances comfort, tech, and efficiency, this one’s worth a close look.
Bold New Look That Turns Heads
Toyota gave the 2026 Highlander a bolder, more modern appearance without going overboard. Up front, you’ll notice a sleeker grille paired with sharper LED headlights that give it a confident, premium feel. The overall design keeps the clean lines that make the Highlander so recognizable, but with subtle tweaks like updated bumpers and wheel options that add a touch of sportiness. It’s the kind of refresh that makes you do a double-take in the driveway, especially in colors like Wind Chill Pearl or Ruby Flare Pearl. Toyota kept things practical too—no wild changes that sacrifice real-world usability.
Spacious and Comfortable Interior for the Whole Crew
Step inside, and the Highlander shines as a true family hauler. It seats up to seven or eight (depending on the configuration), with plenty of room in the first two rows for adults to stretch out. The third row works great for kids or shorter trips, and folding it down opens up generous cargo space for groceries, sports gear, or luggage. Materials feel upgraded in higher trims, with supportive seats and a quiet cabin that makes long drives less tiring. Toyota focused on everyday comfort here—think easy-to-clean surfaces, flexible storage, and smart layouts that make loading up the family a breeze.
Powertrain Choices: Smooth Power and Solid Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2026 Highlander offers two solid options. Gas models get a peppy 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine pumping out 265 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The big news? All-wheel drive is now standard across the gas lineup, giving you better traction for rain, snow, or light off-road fun without extra cost. Hybrid fans will love the efficient 2.5-liter setup, which delivers impressive fuel economy while keeping things smooth and quiet. Towing capacity hits up to 5,000 pounds on gas versions—perfect for small boats or trailers.
Here are the key specs at a glance:
| Feature | Gas Models | Hybrid Models |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | Varies (strong combined output) |
| Torque | 310 lb.-ft. | Efficient torque delivery |
| Drivetrain | Standard AWD | AWD available |
| MPG (Est. Combined) | 24 mpg | Up to 35-36 mpg |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs | Lower (varies by trim) |
| Seating | 7-8 passengers | 7-8 passengers |
Top-Notch Safety and Tech You’ll Actually Use
Toyota packed in advanced safety tech with Toyota Safety Sense, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The multimedia system starts with an 8-inch touchscreen (upgradable to 12.3 inches), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and plenty of USB ports to keep everyone charged. Higher trims add premium touches like a larger display and connected services for navigation and remote access. It’s all straightforward and user-friendly—no overwhelming menus here.
Why the 2026 Highlander Stands Out for American Drivers
At the end of the day, the 2026 Toyota Highlander keeps doing what it does best: delivering dependable, family-focused performance without drama. With pricing starting around $45,000-$47,000 for gas models (higher for hybrids and loaded trims), it stays competitive in the midsize SUV segment. Dealerships are rolling them out now, so if you’re shopping for a reliable three-row that handles American roads and weather like a champ, head over and take one for a spin. Toyota nailed the updates—practical, stylish, and ready for whatever life throws your way.