Updated Powertrains, Trims, and Tech Features for 2026 Grand Highlander
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is a spacious, three-row SUV designed with families and those needing extra passenger and cargo space in mind. Built on Toyota’s TNGA-K platform, the Grand Highlander boasts an extended wheelbase and bold styling, featuring signature C-shaped LED taillights and an aggressive front grille[1][3].
Inside, the Grand Highlander offers adult-sized seating for up to eight passengers, with 33.5 inches of third-row legroom and 37.2 inches of headroom[1]. For added convenience, the second and third rows can be folded flat to reveal up to 97.5 cubic feet of storage[1]. The cabin is equipped with a quiet environment, thanks to acoustic glass and noise-reducing materials[1].
Key interior features include leather-trimmed seats (Platinum grade), heated and ventilated second-row seats, and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen[1][3]. The touchscreen houses Toyota's latest Audio Multimedia system, offering voice-activated control and a complimentary one-year trial of Drive Connect[1].
The Grand Highlander comes with multiple trim levels to suit various preferences: LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum, and a Hybrid Nightshade edition for 2026[3][5]. For those seeking a more powerful performance, the SUV offers a trifecta of powertrains: a 2.4-liter turbocharged gas engine, a 2.5-liter hybrid system, and a Hybrid MAX with a 362-horsepower turbo engine and full-time electronic all-wheel drive[1].
The Hybrid MAX model combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with electrification, offering the strongest performance and towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds[1][2][5].
Safety and technology highlights include Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard, along with advanced tech such as Traffic Jam Assist, Head-Up Display, and Digital Rearview Mirror (available)[1]. The Grand Highlander also offers the available Wi-Fi Connect service, turning the vehicle into a 4G hotspot for up to five devices[1].
Additional convenience features include keyless entry, side-impact airbags, blind-spot sensors, and available captain’s chairs in some trims[4].
The Grand Highlander's platform provides a long wheelbase of 116.1 inches, delivering both stability on the road and additional cabin space[2]. New for this generation is enhanced lane detection using 3D objects and an emergency stop function that can bring the vehicle to a halt if the driver becomes unresponsive[2].
In summary, the 2026 Grand Highlander stands out for its spacious and functional interior, multiple efficient and powerful powertrains, and advanced technology and safety features, making it a versatile choice in the large SUV segment. The Grand Highlander also offers additional conveniences, such as Safety Connect, a service that offers 24/7 emergency services and remote features via the Toyota app[1].
- The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander, situated in the automotive industry, offers smartphone integration as its touchscreen houses Toyota's latest Audio Multimedia system, enabling voice-activated control and a complimentary one-year trial of Drive Connect.
- In terms of safety features, the Grand Highlander comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard, along with advanced tech such as Traffic Jam Assist, Head-Up Display, and Digital Rearview Mirror (available).
- Finance aspects are considered with the Grand Highlander, as it offers multiple trim levels to suit various preferences, including a Hybrid Nightshade edition and three powertrains, one of which is the Hybrid MAX with a 362-horsepower turbo engine and full-transportation capability of up to 5,000 pounds.
