2026 Toyota Grand Highlander

Performance

The 2026 Grand Highlander is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 265 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 310 pound-feet of torque @ 1,700-3,600 rpm and is connected to a Direct Shift eight-speed automatic. It is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). It is also fuel efficient, with a city/highway/combined MPG estimates at 21/28/24 for FWD models and 20/26/22 for AWD models.  

The Grand Highlander’s 2.4-liter turbo engine has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. All grades have a standard Drive Mode selector which offers Sport, Eco, and Normal. AWD adds a Snow mode.   

The Grand Highlander also has two different hybrid drivetrains, which are covered on different model pages.  

Exterior

The Grand Highlander exterior includes a deft mix of design cues from the Highlander and Sequoia. A double-layered, purposeful trapezoidal grille sets the tone. The track is the same as the Highlander, but more upright side surfacing widens the cabin interior. The windows are tall, and black B- and C-pillars create an unbroken window line back to the body-color rear pillar, free of any “floating roof” design gimmicks. For those prioritizing value without compromising features, an entry-level LE trim joins the XLE, Limited, and Platinum.  

Interior

The interior dash flows from door to door with a standard high-mounted 12.3-inch multimedia display taking up the center and easy-to-see-and-reach physical climate controls just below. The upper and lower dash sections diverge in front of the passenger to provide a convenient shelf. A low-profile electronic transmission selector makes reaching the cupholder easy for the driver, and the center console is wide enough for separate armrest pads for both driver and passenger.   

Wide rear doors provide easy access to the second and third rows, all of which can accommodate adults for a lengthy trip. Behind them, there is room for seven carry-on suitcases, with an available volume of 20.6 cubic feet. Fold both sets of seats down for 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space.

Technology

The standard 12.3-inch touchscreen is backed by Toyota’s latest audio multimedia system, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and the ability to download over-the-air updates, augmenting the multimedia experience. With Intelligent Assistant, speaking “Hey Toyota” awakens the system for voice-activated commands, including searching for directions, adjusting audio controls, changing cabin temperature, and more. The available cloud navigation uses the latest map, traffic, and routing information, including a Google-powered POI search. Drivers can also use Destination Assist, which provides 24/7 access to live agents.     

Available Wi-Fi Connect includes a one-month trial subscription that offers 4G connectivity for up to five devices, turning the Grand Highlander into an AT&T Hotspot. Adding to the already robust offering of audio playback ability with HD Radio, USB data, and a SiriusXM Platinum Plan three-month trial subscription, Wi-Fi Connect also enables Integrated Streaming, providing customers the ability to link their Apple Music and Amazon Music subscriptions to the vehicle for onboard control.   

A JBL Premium Audio system with 11 speakers in Limited and Platinum grades will please the audiophile. The system’s Clari-Fi technology breathes life into compressed digital music formats, enhancing the audio experience.   

Safety and Driver Assistance

The Grand Highlander comes with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of safety and driver assist features, which include:   

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD) – This is designed to help drivers mitigate or avoid frontal collisions by detecting a vehicle or a pedestrian in certain situations. Using a camera and radar, PCS w/PD provides both audible and visual alerts, and if the driver doesn’t react, the system may apply the brakes automatically. System improvements over TSS 2.5+ include enhanced intersection support that, in certain circumstances, includes detection of an oncoming vehicle in more than one lane and a vehicle approaching from a lateral direction.   

• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist – This system is designed to issue an audio/visual lane departure warning if an inadvertent lane departure is detected. If the driver does not take corrective action, the system is also designed to provide gentle corrective steering for lane-keeping assistance. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist includes the detection of certain 3D objects, like guardrails, that may be used to help define the lane.  

• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) – This adaptive cruise control system is designed to be set at speeds above 20 mph and use vehicle-to-vehicle distance control to help maintain a choice of four distances from the vehicle ahead of you. Enhanced vehicle detection allows for the ability to detect more than one preceding vehicle, as well as vehicles in adjacent lanes. This helps the system to provide smoother, more natural speed adjustments, especially when the driver changes lanes.  

• Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) – When DRCC is enabled and lane markers are visible, LTA detects the lines on the road and/or preceding vehicles to provide active driving assistance and help keep the vehicle centered and in its lane. An emergency driving stop system has been added to LTA. To help detect a driver who is inattentive or non-responsive, such as during a medical emergency, this feature can bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver doesn’t respond to alerts to take control.  

• Road Sign Assist (RSA) –TSS 3.0 expands sign detection capabilities to now include certain intersection signs and warning signs, like pedestrian crossings.  

• Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) – This is designed to support the driver by providing gentle braking, steering, and distance control between the vehicle and a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist.  

Also standard is a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which informs you of vehicles approaching from either side when you are backing out of a parking space or driveway. You will also be entitled to a 10-year free trial subscription to Safety Connect, which includes:   

• Emergency Assistance Button (SOS)   

• 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance   

• Automatic Collision Notification   

• Stolen Vehicle Locator