A Fresh Start for Road Trips
Toyota just dropped the details on the 2026 Highlander, and it’s clear this midsize SUV is stepping up its game for busy families. Gone are the days of basic rides, this one comes with standard all-wheel drive on every model, making it ready for rain, snow, or just hauling groceries without a hitch. Picture loading up the kids, their sports gear, and a cooler for a weekend getaway, all while sipping coffee without spilling. Built in Princeton, Indiana, it hits dealerships this November, blending everyday ease with a bit more pep. Families who need space and smarts will love how it keeps things simple yet upgraded.
Power That Fits Real Life
Under the hood, the 2026 Highlander offers two solid choices to match your drive style. The gas version packs a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, hooked to an eight-speed automatic. It tows up to 5,000 pounds, perfect for that small trailer on camping trips, and gets about 24 miles per gallon combined. Switch to the hybrid, and you get 243 combined horsepower from a 2.5-liter engine plus electric motors, sipping fuel at 35 mpg combined while towing 3,500 pounds. Both have selectable modes like Eco, Sport, or Snow, so you feel in control whether merging on the highway or crawling through mud. It’s not about racing, but about getting there smooth and steady.
Room to Breathe Inside
Step inside, and the Highlander feels like home base for a crew of seven or eight with the optional bench seat. Cargo space stretches to 84 cubic feet when you fold the seats flat, swallowing strollers or holiday hauls no problem. SofTex or leather seats keep things comfy, with second-row spots that recline for napping passengers. Three-zone climate control means Mom sets her temp, Dad his, and the back stays cool for picky eaters. Higher trims add ambient lights and a panoramic moonroof to make long drives less blah. It’s all about that cozy vibe, like kicking back after a soccer game without the chaos.
Tech That Keeps It Easy
Screens and smarts make this SUV feel modern without the headache. Every model starts with an eight-inch touchscreen for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless of course, plus five USB ports to charge everyone’s devices. Upgrade to the 12.3-inch display on fancier grades, and throw in a 1,200-watt JBL sound system that pumps clear tunes through 11 speakers. The Toyota app lets you start the engine or check oil from your phone, and built-in Wi-Fi covers the whole crew for movies on the go. Voice commands handle navigation or calls, keeping eyes on the road. It’s tech that works for you, not against you.
Safety You Can Count On
Toyota didn’t skimp here, loading up Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ on all Highlanders. That means radar cruise control that adjusts to traffic, lane-keeping that nudges you straight, and auto braking for pedestrians or cars ahead. Blind-spot warnings and rear cross-traffic alerts watch your six during parking lot dashes. Eight airbags cover everyone, and the hybrid adds extra stability tricks for slippery days. Road sign assist even flashes speed limits on the dash. Families sleep easier knowing this SUV’s got their back, turning potential oops moments into smooth sails.
| Key Specs at a Glance | Gas Model | Hybrid Model |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 265 | 243 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 310 | N/A |
| MPG Combined | 24 | 35 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | 5,000 | 3,500 |
| Starting Price | $45,270 | $47,020 |
Ready to Roll for Your Crew
Pricing kicks off at $45,270 for the base gas XLE, climbing to $47,020 for the hybrid version, before fees. Trims like XSE add sporty flair with black wheels and tuned suspension, while Platinum tops it with fancy lights and leather. No matter the pick, the 2026 Highlander nails that balance of tough, roomy, and wallet-friendly. It’s Toyota’s way of saying family adventures shouldn’t feel like work. Head to a dealer soon, this one’s built to last through spills, miles, and memories.