The 2026 Toyota Highlander continues as a top choice for families, offering a refined midsize three-row SUV with a strong emphasis on hybrid efficiency, advanced safety technology, and upscale comfort. Available in gas and hybrid variants, the Highlander Hybrid stands out with smooth power delivery, impressive fuel economy, and standard all-wheel drive, making it ideal for daily commutes and weekend getaways while keeping running costs low.
Bold and Practical Exterior Design
The 2026 Highlander carries forward its bold, athletic styling with a prominent grille, sharp LED headlights, and a muscular stance that conveys confidence on the road. Available in multiple trims, it offers features like 20-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, and a hands-free power liftgate for added convenience.
The design prioritizes aerodynamics and visibility, with options for a panoramic moonroof that brightens the cabin.
- Standard LED lighting for better visibility
- Available two-tone paint and chrome accents on higher trims
It’s a versatile look that’s family-friendly yet sophisticated, ready for city streets or highway cruising.
Efficient Hybrid Power for Everyday Driving
The standout option is the Highlander Hybrid, pairing a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors for responsive performance and excellent efficiency. It delivers smooth acceleration with standard electronic on-demand all-wheel drive for traction in various conditions.
Expect up to 35 MPG combined, along with a quiet cabin thanks to refined hybrid operation. Towing reaches up to 3,500 pounds, perfect for light trailers or boats.
- Seamless gas-electric transitions for effortless power
- Electronic AWD standard on all hybrid models
This setup provides the ideal mix of power and savings, making long trips more enjoyable and economical.
Smart Safety Features That Protect Everyone
Toyota prioritizes safety with the standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite, including advanced driver assists like pre-collision braking, lane departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.
Higher trims add blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera. Eight airbags and a strong safety structure provide peace of mind for all three rows.
- Proactive assistance for safer highway driving
- Enhanced pedestrian detection and road sign assist
These smart features work together to help prevent accidents and make every drive more secure.
Premium Comfort in a Spacious Interior
Inside, the 2026 Highlander offers premium comfort with seating for up to eight, supportive chairs, and ample legroom across all rows. Materials like SofTex or leather trim, three-zone climate control, and quiet insulation create a relaxing environment.
Tech highlights include an available 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and an optional JBL premium audio system.
- Heated and ventilated front seats on select trims
- Flexible cargo space with power-folding third row
It’s designed for comfort on long journeys, with thoughtful storage and easy access for passengers.
The 2026 Toyota Highlander preview showcases a well-rounded midsize SUV that excels with hybrid power for efficiency, smart safety tech for protection, and premium comfort for the whole family. Whether choosing the hybrid for top fuel economy or the gas model for capability, it delivers reliable performance and modern features in a practical package—continuing Toyota’s reputation for dependable family transportation.
FAQs
What is the fuel economy for the 2026 Highlander Hybrid?
It achieves an EPA-estimated up to 35 MPG combined, with standard all-wheel drive.
Does the 2026 Highlander come with all-wheel drive?
Yes, all gas models now have standard AWD, and it’s standard on hybrids as electronic on-demand AWD.
What safety features are standard?
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, automatic emergency braking, and more.
How many seats does the 2026 Highlander have?
It seats up to eight with an optional second-row bench, or seven with captain’s chairs.
When will the 2026 Toyota Highlander be available?
Models are expected to arrive at dealerships starting in late 2025.
