Toyota’s Grand Highlander has quickly proven itself as a success story in the brand’s SUV lineup, becoming the second best-selling crossover in the company’s U.S. portfolio. In just the first half of the year, 65,419 units found new owners in America a 19.7% jump compared to the same period last year.
Despite this strong momentum, the Grand Highlander enters its third model year with virtually no major updates. In fact, the only noticeable change for 2026 is the introduction of a “black badge overlay” on hybrid versions of the Nightshade Edition, which is more of a cosmetic tweak than a functional upgrade.
However, there is one other notable change—pricing. When the 2026 model reaches dealerships this fall, it will carry a higher sticker price. The base model will start at $41,360, representing a $500 increase over last year. The Hybrid model also sees a small bump, moving from $44,210 to $44,710, while the top-tier Hybrid Max rises from $54,690 to $55,190.
Under the hood, the Grand Highlander offers three distinct powertrain options. The standard version is equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder producing 265 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque. The Hybrid variant pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor for a combined output of 245 hp, prioritizing efficiency over outright performance. At the top of the lineup sits the Hybrid Max, which combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with a small battery pack and a rear eAxle. This setup delivers an impressive 362 hp and 542 Nm of torque, enabling a 0–96 km/h sprint in just 6.3 seconds.
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Since the model is largely a carryover, its equipment list remains familiar. Standard features include acoustic front glass, a power-operated liftgate, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Grand Highlander offers seating for eight, analog gauges, a 7-inch multi-information display, and a 12.3-inch central infotainment screen. Additional comforts include an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a six-speaker audio system.
On the safety side, Toyota equips the SUV with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies. These include Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Automatic High Beams, Proactive Driving Assist, Road Sign Assist, and a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection are also standard.
More upscale trims step up the luxury with features such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. They also offer heated and ventilated seats for both the first and second rows, ambient lighting, a wireless charging pad, and an 11-speaker JBL premium sound system, giving buyers a more refined driving experience.