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2026 Toyota Highlander Review - New Tech, More Power, and a Smarter Family SUV

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2026 Toyota Highlander Review - One of America’s favorite three-row SUVs. Known for its blend of reliability, comfort, and family-friendly versatility, the Highlander continues to evolve. For 2026, Toyota brings in subtle design tweaks, smarter tech, and an even more efficient hybrid option. Whether you're hauling kids, cargo, or both, this SUV keeps you ahead of the curve. Let’s take a full look at the 2026 Highlander for the U.S. market.

Exterior Design

The 2026 Highlander keeps its bold, practical look but sharpens its styling to stay competitive:

  • Sleeker LED headlights with new signature DRLs
  • Revised front grille and bumper designs for a more aggressive, refined look
  • Available 20-inch alloy wheels, blacked-out accents on sportier trims
  • Aerodynamic profile with subtle roofline tweaks for better efficiency
  • New colors like Storm Cloud Blue and Copper Dust Metallic

It’s still instantly recognizable but feels fresher and more upscale than ever.

Interior & Technology

Step inside, and the 2026 Highlander impresses with a refined, high-tech cabin:

  • 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster standard on mid and upper trims
  • Upgraded Toyota Audio Multimedia system with a 14-inch touchscreen on higher trims
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard
  • Built-in Google integration on select models: Maps, Assistant, and Play Store
  • Seating for 7 or 8 with captain’s chairs or a bench in the second row
  • Optional panoramic sunroof, heated/ventilated seats, and ambient lighting

It’s designed for modern families who expect premium tech without the luxury price tag.

Performance & Powertrains 

Toyota continues to refine the Highlander's powertrain options for performance and efficiency:

  • Base engine: 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder, producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque
  • Hybrid option: 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid system, delivering 243 combined horsepower and up to 36 MPG combined
  • All-wheel drive (AWD) is available across all trims
  • Smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic on gas models, eCVT for hybrid versions
  • Capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds

Whether you go turbo or hybrid, the 2026 Highlander balances power and practicality.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety is always a priority with Toyota, and the 2026 Highlander is no exception:

  • Standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes:
    • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
    • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
    • Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
    • Lane Tracing Assist and Road Sign Assist
  • Available features:
    • 360-degree camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert
    • Advanced parking assist on top trims

Toyota builds trust with families by making advanced safety tech standard.

Trims, Pricing & Value

The 2026 Highlander offers something for everyone across a wide trim lineup:

  • L – Well-equipped base with touchscreen and safety tech
  • LE & XLE – Add AWD, power liftgate, heated seats, sunroof
  • XSE – Sporty styling with performance tuning
  • Limited – Premium features like ventilated leather seats and JBL audio
  • Platinum – Full luxury with head-up display, panoramic roof, and 360° cameras
  • Hybrid models available in most trims for fuel-conscious buyers

Starting at around $39,000, with Platinum trims nearing $52,000, it competes strongly against the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride. 

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