The Toyota Highlander has been one of America’s most trusted family SUVs for years. As the demand for versatile three-row SUVs grows in the United States, Toyota is stepping up with the brand-new 2026 Highlander. The latest model arrives more capable, more efficient, safer, and tech-upgraded than ever before — making it a top contender in the midsize SUV market.
Whether you commute daily or take long family trips across the country, the 2026 Highlander is designed to handle every need with confidence. Here’s everything US buyers need to know about pricing, features, powertrain options, and release timing.
Redesigned for Improved Performance and Comfort
Toyota has refined the exterior design with new aerodynamic elements to improve fuel economy and driving stability. The front grille looks sharper and more premium, paired with redesigned LED headlights and fresh alloy wheel styles. The taller stance gives it a bold road presence, while still maintaining the sleek profile Highlander fans love.
Inside the cabin, upgrades make the SUV feel more modern and premium. You get more soft-touch materials, improved cabin insulation for quieter rides, and updated seat designs for extra comfort during long journeys. Families will appreciate that the Highlander retains spacious seating across three rows, making school runs and family vacations stress-free.
Standard AWD for All 2026 Models
The biggest change for 2026 is that Toyota has made all-wheel drive standard on every trim level. This is great news for American buyers living in areas with snowfall, heavy rain, or rough terrains. The AWD system improves stability, traction, and year-round confidence — whether you’re driving through Colorado mountains or Midwest winters.
Upper trims also offer a torque-vectoring AWD system that actively distributes power between wheels for better cornering and handling.
Two Powertrain Options: Gas and Hybrid
Toyota continues offering both traditional gas and hybrid options to give buyers flexibility. The gas engine is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generating strong horsepower and impressive torque for highway merging and towing.
Meanwhile, the hybrid setup balances good performance with excellent fuel savings. It combines a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors, ideal for drivers looking to save money on fuel while reducing emissions. The hybrid model still offers a capable towing capacity, making it a smart choice for weekend adventure seekers.
Fuel-Efficient, Road-Trip-Ready
The 2026 Highlander is designed for American road trips. Depending on the powertrain:
• Gas trims deliver solid fuel economy for daily driving
• Hybrid trims can achieve up to mid-30s MPG combined, lowering fuel expenses significantly
Whether it’s a family drive across California coastlines or long-distance travel between states, you can enjoy fewer fuel stops and a smoother ride.
Modern Tech and Safety Features
The 2026 Highlander comes fully loaded with advanced safety and technology built around family needs. Toyota now includes its latest driver assistance suite as standard, offering:
• Lane departure alert with steering assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Road sign assist
• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane-centering technology
Inside, the touchscreen infotainment system comes with smartphone compatibility, voice control, and available premium sound systems. Upper models add luxury perks such as:
• Wireless phone charging
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Digital driver display
• Panoramic moonroof
• Hands-free power liftgate
Whether you’re navigating busy city streets or interstate highways, the Highlander keeps the journey safe, entertaining, and convenient for everyone on board.
Spacious Cabin with Versatile Seating
American families love the Highlander’s flexibility. The 2026 version continues offering seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on whether you choose second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat. There’s plenty of cargo room for groceries, sports gear, luggage, and everything else you need daily.
Fold-flat rear seats allow easy configuration to maximize space. From Home Depot runs to camping weekends, the Highlander adapts to your lifestyle with ease.
Pricing for the US Market
With AWD now standard, the starting price has increased slightly. Expected pricing for the 2026 lineup in the United States:
• Gas trims are expected to start around $46,000
• Hybrid trims are expected to start around $48,000
• Fully-loaded top models may reach $56,000+
Even with a higher entry price, buyers receive more capability and features than ever before.
Release Date in the United States
The new Highlander is expected to hit US Toyota dealerships from late 2025, with wide availability across the country by early 2026. High demand is anticipated due to the combination of space, AWD performance, and Toyota reliability.
Should You Buy the 2026 Highlander?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander is a seriously appealing choice if you want:
• A dependable three-row family SUV
• Standard AWD with strong capability
• Option between gas and fuel-saving hybrid
• Modern cabin comfort and smart technology
• Strong resale value and low maintenance costs
The only drawback is a higher starting price — but the benefits in performance, safety, and standard features make it a worthy upgrade.
Final Verdict
The Toyota New Highlander 2026 proves why this SUV remains a favorite among American families. From road-trip adventures to daily errands, it delivers the perfect balance of practicality, comfort, and technology. If you’re looking for a future-ready SUV with reliable performance and advanced safety, the 2026 Highlander should be on the top of your list this year.