2026 Toyota Highlander: Standard All-Wheel Drive and Smarter Hybrid Efficiency

A direct look at Toyota's three-row SUV

The 2026 Toyota Highlander arrives this November with a simple message: every model now includes All-Wheel Drive. Gas versions adopt standard AWD for the first time, while hybrids continue with electronic AWD. Prices start at $45,270 (USD) for the gas XLE and $47,020 (USD) for the hybrid XLE. This change reflects growing customer demand for year-round traction. Families buying a three-row SUV expect it to handle snow, rain, and dirt roads without hesitation.

Trim levels and drivetrains

Toyota trimmed its lineup to make choices easier.

• Gas models: XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum
• Hybrid models: XLE, Limited, Platinum

Gas models

• Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
• Output: 265 horsepower, 310 lb-ft torque
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• AWD standard: Mechanical AWD on XLE, Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD on higher trims
• Towing capacity: 5,000 lbs

Hybrid models

• Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two motor-generators
• Output: 243 net horsepower
• Estimated 35 MPG combined
• AWD standard: Electronic On-Demand AWD
• Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs

Fuel economy comparison

The hybrid battery sits under the second-row seats, preserving the SUV’s 84.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity with rows folded.

Interior features

• Three-row seating: seven seats standard with captain’s chairs; optional bench for eight
• Standard features: tri-zone climate control, wireless smartphone charging, Toyota Audio Multimedia system (8-inch or 12.3-inch screen)
• Cargo space: up to 84.3 cubic feet with rear rows folded

SofTex seats appear on XLE. Leather-trimmed seating with heating and ventilation is standard on Limited and Platinum. The Platinum adds a glazed caramel interior option.

Hybrid technology

The Highlander Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter engine with two motor-generators. Toyota tunes the system for efficiency, not speed.

• 35 MPG estimated combined rating
• EV mode for short electric-only trips
• Selectable modes: Normal, Eco, Sport
• Predictive Efficient Drive on Limited and Platinum grades

Regenerative braking captures energy and can be manually adjusted to mimic downshifting for hilly driving.

Gas model performance

The 2.4-liter turbo gas engine delivers strength for towing and highway driving.

• 5,000-lb towing capacity
• Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD improves stability on XSE, Limited, Platinum
• Multi-Terrain Select with Mud & Sand and Rock & Dirt modes

The XSE trim adds sport suspension, black 20-inch wheels, and unique styling touches for a performance look.

Multimedia and connectivity

Toyota’s Audio Multimedia system comes standard, with 8-inch or optional 12.3-inch displays.

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Voice assistant activated with “Hey Toyota”
• Cloud-based navigation with Google POI data
• Dual Bluetooth connectivity
• Optional JBL Premium Audio with 1,200 watts and 11 speakers

Each Highlander has five USB ports and available Wi-Fi hotspot. Remote Connect allows smartphone-based control of locks and ignition.

Safety technology

The 2026 Highlander includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ with standard systems:

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

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is standard. Eight airbags protect all rows. Hybrids add Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management for added stability.