There Can Be Only One: Highlights of the 2026 Toyota Highlander

The three-row SUV segment is highly competitive. Commuters want options that offer practical seating and storage, but they also look for fuel economy, connectivity, and safety features. All of these aspects and many more are prominent in the 2026 Toyota Highlander.

A 2026 Toyota Highlander for sale offers many of the benefits that commuters enjoy, including a spacious interior equipped with comfortable amenities and connectivity features. Drivers can choose between a powertrain built for economy or performance. Many SUV owners also have families, and the Highlander has many features that offer protection and oversight.

Today, we’re examining the various advantages and highlights of the 2026 Toyota Highlander. This is the last model year before the Highlander becomes an all-electric SUV for 2027. We’ll look under the hood and behind the wheel. We hope this information will make you want to take a test drive!

Engine Options

Drivers who are looking for an SUV tend to favor either efficiency or performance. City commuters and family-oriented drivers appreciate low fuel consumption. Meanwhile, recreational enthusiasts and off-roaders enjoy performance and capability. The 2026 Highlander features powertrains that accommodate both needs.

2.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

The base engine of the 2026 Highlander offers drivers both performance and capability. Off-roaders will love the traditional gasoline engine’s output, and recreational enthusiasts can take advantage of its towing power.

• Performance: The base four-cylinder produces 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission to enhance performance. The Highlander’s standard all-wheel drive makes it suitable for off-roading.
• Towing Power: The four-cylinder engine allows the Highlander to tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
• Fuel Economy: Despite being tailored for performance, the base four-cylinder still offers favorable fuel economy. Drivers can expect to achieve an EPA-estimated 21 MPG in the city, 28 MPG on the highway, and 24 MPG combined.

2.5L Hybrid Four-Cylinder

An advantage of the Highlander is its available hybrid powertrain. This option gives city commuters the fuel economy they want, with performance that remains competitive on and off the road.

• Performance: A four-cylinder engine with additional electric motors delivers 243 hp. The hybrid engine is paired with Toyota’s eCVT, making it suitable for city driving and improving fuel economy.
• Capability: All 2026 Highlander models have standard all-wheel drive. The hybrid variant is still off-road-capable, with a maximum tow rating of 3,500 lbs.
• Fuel Economy: The best attribute of any hybrid powertrain is its fuel economy. Hybrid versions of the 2026 Highlander achieve 35 MPG in the city, 35 MPG on the highway, and 35 MPG combined.

Seating and Storage

SUVs have always been favored by those who need generous seating and storage. The Highlander is no exception. With three rows of seating and plenty of cargo room, Toyota’s SUV offers the pragmatic advantages of the vehicle class.

Seating Arrangements

The 2026 Highlander offers two unique seating arrangements. Whether you need to accommodate multiple passengers or enjoy a more refined feeling, Toyota has you covered.

• Second-Row Captain’s Chairs: Most trims come with second-row captain’s chairs, allowing the SUV to accommodate seven passengers. Upper trims feature leather upholstery, heating, and ventilation.
• Second-Row Bench Seat: The XLE and Limited trims are available with a second-row bench seat instead of captain’s chairs, allowing the SUV to accommodate up to eight passengers.

Storage Capacity

In addition to its seating arrangements, the 2026 Toyota Highlander offers generous cargo room. Whether you’re making a grocery store run or moving into a new home, you’ll have plenty of storage space to work with.

When all seats are occupied, the Highlander offers 16 cu.ft. of room. Removing the third row unlocks 48.4 cu.ft. of space. For situations that require the most room, the Highlander can accommodate 84.3 cu.ft. of space behind the front row.

Additional Comforts

In addition to the seating and storage offered on the Highlander, there are plenty of items that ensure comfort.

• Standard Three-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Available Ambient Interior Lighting
• Available Power Lumbar Support
• Available Panoramic Moonroof

Connectivity

Performance, storage, and seating have been key aspects of the SUV class since its inception. However, the modern commuter looks to stay connected with apps and other technologies. The 2026 Toyota Highlander features many tools that ensure connectivity.

Infotainment Systems

The hub for connectivity in any vehicle is the infotainment system. Toyota offers two options that allow drivers to access their favorite apps and other features in the 2026 Highlander.

Eight-Inch Infotainment System

The Highlander’s XLE and XSE trims feature an intuitive eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with many essential features, including:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Access to SiriusXM
• Six-Speaker Stereo System.

12.3-Inch Infotainment System

The Highlander’s Limited and Platinum trims offer drivers a larger 12.3-inch display for a more intuitive infotainment experience. This includes:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Hands-Free Phone Capability
• Audio Streaming via Bluetooth
• Access to SiriusXM
• 11-Speaker JBL Stereo System With Subwoofer and Amplifier

Additional Connectivity Features

The 2026 Highlander’s connectivity advantages extend beyond its infotainment systems. These items make owning a Highlander a truly tech-savvy experience.

• Wireless Charging: Leave the cables at home. Wireless phone charging is standard on all trims.
• Five USB Ports: Equip more devices for your next road trip.
• Wi-Fi Connect: Ensures connectivity via a 4G mobile hotspot.
• Drive Connect: Cloud-based navigation with Google Points of Interest.
• Service Connect: Sends maintenance alerts and provides oversight of vehicle health.
• Remote Connect: Connect your Highlander to your smartphone via the Toyota App.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Technology

Many SUV owners are family-oriented commuters who prioritize safety. Toyota’s long-standing reputation for building safe and reliable vehicles is on full display in the 2026 Highlander. The three-row SUV comes with many safety and driver-assistance technologies that provide protection and oversight.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+

All trims of the 2026 Highlander come with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. It’s a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies. These items add a layer of protection for any commuter.

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Automatic High Beams
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Road Sign Assist
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

The Ideal Three-Row SUV: The 2026 Toyota Highlander

The 2026 Toyota Highlander provides commuters with everything they’re looking for in a three-row SUV. Here’s a recap of the reasons why we feel it’s an ideal choice for any driver.

• Versatile Performance: Whether you’re a family-oriented commuter or need an SUV for recreational activities, the Highlander can accommodate. Its gas and hybrid powertrain options offer a unique mix of performance and economy.
• Spacious Interior: The Highlander offers ample seating and cargo room. These attributes are joined by features that provide comfort for both drivers and passengers.
• Connectivity: The Highlander keeps drivers connected to apps and other technologies when they’re on the road. Two unique stereo systems provide pristine audio quality.
• Safety: Staying safe on the road is the most important aspect of any vehicle. The Highlander comes with several items that enhance protection and reaction time.

The 2026 Highlander and its available trims can be found here at Marietta Toyota. We can’t wait to show you everything it has to offer in person!