Quick Highlights:
- Every Highlander is now equipped with standard all-wheel drive, unlike in the past years.
- Gas 2.4L turbo will produce 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, and have a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. The Hybrid 2.5L is rated at 243 horsepower and at 35 MPG combined.
- Three-row seating has 7 seats as standard with an optional eight-seat second-row bench on XLE and Limited. Its features are available in leather or SofTex upholstery, panoramic moonroof, and JBL premium audio.
- The base XLE AWD begins at $45,270, almost a $5,000 increase compared to the base LE last year, which also includes the added AWD and new features.
For 2026, the Toyota Highlander comes back as a tougher, better-equipped family SUV—but the price will hit you first. The XLE now starts at $45,270, almost $5,000 more than last year’s LE.
All-Wheel Drive is standard on every model, a big shift for a SUV that’s long been known for reliability and everyday usability. Toyota has cut back the trim lineup to four gas and three hybrid grades, dropping the LE base and special editions like Nightshade and the 25th Anniversary. Even with the 2027 Toyota Highlander EV coming up, the 2026 Highlander makes its case as a practical, capable SUV you can actually drive every day.
City streets, snowy backroads, weekend adventures—it doesn’t matter. With AWD across the board, the Highlander simply feels planted and ready.
Powertrains & AWD: More Grip, More Control
In 2026, the Highlander is making a very large leap as All-Wheel Drive is becoming standard throughout. The functionality of that AWD will rely on the trim. Gas XLE models receive a simple mechanical AWD system, and the XSE, Limited, and Platinum models receive Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, which diverts power between the rear wheels to enhance handling and improve corner grip. Hybrid models use Electronic On-Demand AWD, which transmits power to the rear wheels via a separate electric motor only when required-assisting efficiency without losing control.
The 2.4 litre turbocharged gas engine offers 265 hp (197 kW / 268 PS) and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque. It has an 8-speed automatic transmission with Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow drive selections. Tow up to 5,000 lbs with these gas models and you can take on Mud and Sand or Rock and Dirt with Multi-Terrain Select.
The 2.5-litre hybrid features a four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors to produce 243 net combined hp (181 kW / 246 PS). It has 35 MPG combined and up to 3,500 lbs of towing capacity. It has normal, Eco, sport and EV only modes. On Limited and Platinum hybrids, Predictive Efficient Drive gets to know your driving habits and the traffic ahead to optimise battery consumption, a feature that becomes even more natural with continued driving.
Interior & Tech: Practicality Meets Comfort
The cabin of the Highlander is yet another of its best features. It can fit up to seven passengers as standard and two benchers in the second row can be added on the XLE and Limited trims.
Premier trims have leather or SofTex seats, heated, ventilated front seats, convenient technology such as an 8-inch or optional 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL 11-speaker audio system, Qi wireless charging, multiple USB ports, three-zone climate control, and hands-free liftgate.
The Hybrid Platinum trim also provides an upgrade with heated second-row captain-seats, a panoramic glass roof, 10-inch head-up display, panoramic view monitor and adaptive LED headlights, ensuring the comfort and functionality of the entire family.
Safety: Standard, Extensive, and Trusted
All 2026 Highlanders come with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ as standard. This includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist & Automatic High Beams
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Hybrid models get an extra edge with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). It helps the Highlander stay steady by managing brakes, traction, and hybrid power automatically, so you feel in control even on slippery roads.
Grades & Trim Highlights
The Toyota Highlander is available in four gas versions: XLE, XSE, Limited and Platinum, and three hybrid versions: XLE, Limited and Platinum.
- XLE (Gas and Hybrid): This trim is practical and family friendly with SofTex seats, 8 inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 18 inch wheels, and a hands free liftgate. You have everything to be comfortable in your day to day life here.
- XSE (Gas): XSE is designed to feel a little more sport. Adding Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, tuned suspension, 20-inch black wheels, and low-key ambient interior lighting. It is sporty, quick and more interesting to drive.
- Limited, Platinum: Up the luxury with trims that extend to leather trimmed heated and ventilated seats, 12.3 inch touchscreen, JBL premium audio, panorama moonroof, and 20 inch alloy wheels. The Hybrid Platinum also incorporates additional features such as a panoramic glass top and 10-inch head-up display which gives the cabin a high-end look in all directions.
Price & Market Position
The Toyota Highlander XLE AWD has increased its price to start at 45,270 which is a significant increase when compared to the 41,815 FWD LE of last year. The growth is attributed to the addition of standard all-wheel drive and better features throughout the range. The Hybrid XLE AWD starts at $47,020, which is only slightly more than last year. At the highest price, the gas Platinum trim is priced at $54,420, and the Hybrid Platinum is priced at $56,170.
The cost is high, but the capability is increased. AWD is standard, technology is enhanced, and a more upscale interior translate to the Highlander having a more accurate and sure three-row SUV–just at a new price range. It is a compromise, which is reasonable when you need a car that will be ready to go in the snow, off-road, or just a smoother, more comfortable daily ride.
Quick Specs Table
| Feature | Gas Turbo 2.4L | Hybrid 2.5L |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 243 hp combined |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | N/A |
| MPG | 24 combined | 35 combined |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| AWD | Mechanical / Dynamic Torque Vectoring | Electronic On-Demand |
| Seating | 7-8 | 7-8 |
| Touchscreen | 8-inch standard / 12.3-inch available | 8-inch standard / 12.3-inch available |
| Premium Audio | Optional JBL | Standard on Limited/Platinum |
Final Thoughts
Besides price shock, the 2026 Highlander is finally behaving like a three-row SUV. With AWD on all trims, it has a feeling of confidence on snow, dirt, or rainy streets, and the interior is spacious enough to accommodate seven or eight passengers without feeling crowded. The tech and comfort leap out at you when you first sit in it, with the seats being heated, a mega-sized touchscreen, and USB ports aplenty.
Compared to the Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, Subaru Ascent, Ford Explorer, or Kia Telluride, the Highlander would still do well. It may not be the snazziest SUV in the lot; however, it is solid, reliable, and easy to live with in daily life.
When you need an SUV that is comfortable in every situation and can drive well, then this is an SUV worth trying. Compare it with the Palisade or Pilot–you may be amazed at the amount the Highlander offers you with the additional money.
Source: Toyota
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