No news is good news for the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander, which sees no changes for its third model year on the market, aside from a price increase. This large, three-row SUV, available with multiple hybrid powertrains, continues to offer a compelling blend of family-friendly attributes.
Since there are no changes, we might as well discuss the new pricing. The base Grand Highlander LE trim level now starts at $43,155, including the destination charge; the 2025 model started at $42,310. The Hybrid LE trim now starts at $46,505, and the first trim with the Hybrid Max powertrain—the Limited—now starts at $56,985. All of these are $845 higher than in 2025.
The base Grand Highlander engine is a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Depending on the drivetrain and trim, this engine returns 22-24 mpg combined.
The Grand Highlander Hybrid features a powertrain consisting of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, electric motors, a battery pack, and an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Front- and all-wheel drive are available, with AWD using an additional electric motor to power the rear axle. Total system output is 245 hp. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates fuel economy at 36 mpg combined with FWD and 34 mpg combined with AWD.
The Grand Highlander Hybrid Max uses a completely different hybrid system. It features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, one electric motor, a six-speed automatic transmission, and standard AWD. Its total system output is a whopping 362 hp, and it returns 27 mpg combined. The base engine and regular hybrid can be paired with the LE, XLE, and Limited trim levels, while the base engine and Hybrid Max are eligible for the luxurious Platinum trim.
Key standard features include a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, seven USB-C ports throughout the cabin, a power liftgate, and the Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Stepping up to at least the XLE trim level is probably a good idea, though, given its heated power front seats, simulated leather upholstery, a choice of seven- or eight-passenger capacities, wireless smartphone charging, and an unsung hero for second-row-riding kids: pull-up sunshades.
The features added to the Limited and Platinum trims are hardly what most would consider essential, which makes the Hybrid Max's exclusivity to them a little unfortunate.
Given the Grand Highlander’s size and available hybrid powertrains, the redesigned 2026 Hyundai Palisade is your best bet for a comparable vehicle. Between these two, you will have a tough choice. The GMC Acadia is another good alternative if you are mostly looking for a jumbo-size vehicle and a high-quality cabin with great technology. The Kia Telluride is also worth considering, even though it is nearing the end of its life and will soon be replaced by an all-new 2027 model that will also offer a hybrid powertrain.
Toyota is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of February 6, 2026, but it may have changed since then. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
James Riswick has been testing and reviewing cars since 2007, serving as an editor at Edmunds.com and Autoblog. In addition to jdpower.com, he has also contributed to Autoguide Magazine, Autotrader, Capital One Auto Navigator, Car and Driver, and Hagerty. He resides in Southern California and owns a 1998 BMW Z3, a 2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 Wagon, and a 2025 Cadillac Optiq.
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