Where the 2026 Toyota Highlander Shines
Few three-row SUVs make family duty as straightforward as the 2026 Toyota Highlander. The switch to a turbocharged four-cylinder brings plenty of low and mid-range punch, making highway merges and two-lane overtakes easy, even if it isn’t quite as smooth as the old V6. The Highlander shines in real-world flexibility, with a second row that slides, reclines, and provides plenty of leg and elbow room. Standard all-wheel drive for 2026 means added confidence in wintry or wet conditions. Toyota also continues its tradition of prioritizing safety, with adaptive cruise, lane centering, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert now included on every trim.
Available Trims and Features
The 2026 Highlander lineup covers a range of needs with XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum trims. The XLE—now the base model—features heated power front seats, synthetic leather, second-row sunshades, and a wireless charger, giving most families everything they need. The XSE brings a sportier look and feel, while the Limited and Platinum trims pile on luxury touches like real leather, ventilated seats, and a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. All models are powered by a 265-hp 2.4-liter turbo-four paired with an 8-speed automatic and come standard with all-wheel drive. For bigger families, both seven- and eight-passenger seating are available, with captain’s chairs or a second-row bench.
Where the 2026 Toyota Highlander Could Improve
Against polished rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, the Highlander’s interior leaves something to be desired, especially in lower trims where hard plastics and plain seat materials are all too visible. The infotainment system, while modern in looks, lacks a true home screen and can require too many steps for simple tasks, especially for drivers who prefer using knobs rather than steering wheel buttons. The third-row seat is a squeeze, making it suitable mainly for kids or emergency use. While Toyota touts improved emissions, the turbo-four’s fuel economy is no better than the outgoing V6, so budget-focused shoppers should strongly consider the hybrid for meaningful fuel savings.
Our Take
The 2026 Toyota Highlander may not lead the segment in every area, but for families seeking reliability, versatility, and standard all-wheel drive, it’s consistently a top pick. If you crave extra luxury or a more premium cabin, you might find more polish in a Telluride or Palisade. But as a practical, comfortable, and confidence-inspiring everyday SUV, the Highlander remains tough to beat, especially in hybrid form.