The Toyota Highlander almost doesn’t need an introduction, as this nameplate has been faithfully serving families for decades now, in many different forms. And, while this generation is aging, there is still a lot to like about this comfy family hauler. So, is the Toyota Highlander the best SUV for your driveway? This article will cover the spec breakdowns of this 2026 Toyota Highlander but be sure to watch the video below for an in-depth design review!

What’s New for 2026?

  • AWD std on all models
  • Trims slimmed down – gas LE gone, HEV XLE Nightshade gone

Trims and Pricing

Gas MSRP with AWD

XLE: $45,270

XSE: $47,340

Limited: $49,725

Platinum: $52,925

—

Hybrid MSRP with AWD

Hybrid XLE: $47,020

Hybrid Limited: $51,475

Hybrid Platinum: $54,675

For models adding AWD, the price rises about $2,000 for 2026, as compared to $1,000 on the already AWD models

Air ball and slam dunk

Slam Dunk: The interior finishes of the Highlander outshine newer Toyota SUVs

Air Ball: We wish Toyota would update this model to be a little more spacious

Highlander Front
Highlander Grille
Highlander Side
Highlander Rear
Highlander Interior

Design and Features

As mentioned above, please watch the video linked below for a full in-depth exploration of the exterior design and differences. The Highlander doesn’t get any design changes for 2026 but actually loses some options. The recently added Nightshade editions are now completely gone, but you can still opt for the sporty XSE trim. However, the lack of an LE trim now means all trims will have attractive wheel options.

Here is the full breakdown of what we know about the feature availability:

Feature

Availability

Exterior

LED Headlights

Standard: Projector LEDs | Platinum: Adaptive/Auto-Leveling

Fog Lights

Standard

Wheels

XLE: 18-in alloys | XSE+: 20-in alloys

Mirrors

Standard BSM and Heating | Limited+: Puddle Lamps and Power Fold

LED Taillights

Standard partial LED

Towing

3,500-5,000 lbs

Forward Emergency Braking

Standard on all Highlander Models

Adaptive Cruise Control

Lane Keep Assist

Auto High Beams

 

When it comes to the Interior, the Highlander will also be well-equipped on all trims.

Interior

Smart Entry

Standard

Seat Materials

XLE: SoftTex | XSE: SoftTex with Cloth | Limited: Leather | Platinum: quilted leather

Seat Adjustment

Standard: 10-way power | Memory: Limited+

Push Button Start

Standard

Gauge Cluster

Standard: 7-in digital display | XSE+: 12.3-in full digital

Heads-up Display

Platinum only

Steering Wheel

Standard: Leather Wrapped | Limited+: Heating

Rain Sensing Wipers

Platinum

Wireless Charging

Standard

360 Degree Camera

Standard on Platinum only

3-Zone Climate Controls

Standard

Seat Climate

Heating: Standard | Ventilated: Limited+

Audio System

Standard: 6-Speakers | Limited+: 11-Speakers JBL Audio

Screen

Standard: 8-inch display | Limited+: 12.3-in display  (optional on lower trims) | Wireless CP and AA Standard

Auto Dimming Mirror

Standard with HomeLink | Platinum: Camera Mirror

Moonroof

Standard Size XLE | Panoramic on Platinum

 

The rear of the Highlander is also well-equipped, making it comfortable for passengers. 

Rear Amenities

Sunshades

XLE+

Rear Vents and USBs

Standard

Seating Configurations

Standard Captain’s Chairs | Optional bench on XLE and Limited for 8-passenger seating

Tailgate

Standard: Power and Foot Activated

 

For in depth details on the 2026 Highlander, watch our full first look review linked at the bottom of this article.

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What’s Under the Hood?

The Highlander still offers two engine options with varying amounts of efficiency and power:

Standard Engine:

    • 2.4 I-4 Turbo with 265 hp and 310 lb.ft
    • 8-Speed Automatic
    • AWD

Hybrid:

    • 2.5L I-4 + 2 electric motors and battery: 243 hp (total system)
    • AWD
    • eCVT

AWD is now standard on all Highlander models. Most gas models of the Highlander are rated as follows:

AWD: 21/28/24 MPG

XLE Hybrid: 35/35/35 MPG

Limited/Plat HEV: 35/34/35 MPG

We hope you have found this overview of the 2026 Toyota Highlander helpful! For a more detailed first look of the Highlander, please watch our video below! What do you think of the 2026 Toyota Highlander? Let us know in the comments!