The 2026 Toyota Highlander arrives with standard AWD across the board. Hybrid models now include Electronic On-Demand AWD, while gas models vary based on the trim. XLE has Dynamic Torque Control AWD, while XSE, Limited, and Platinum have Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with driveline disconnect. Additionally, the lineup is now down to just four trims: XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum.
In terms of powertrains, the gas-powered 2026 Toyota Highlander comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbo-four. This unit makes 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. As before, the only transmission offered on the gas models is an eight-speed automatic. Towing capacity for the gas models stands at 5,000 lbs. Those looking for sportier handling in their three-row SUV can choose the XSE trim, which has a sport-tuned suspension and model-specific exterior styling details. In terms of fuel economy, the gas models are rated at 21/28/24 mpg city/highway/combined.
Meanwhile, the Highlander Hybrid uses the Toyota Hybrid System based on a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder. Total system output stands at 243 hp. However, the towing capacity drops to 3,500 lbs. In trade, the Highlander Hybrid offers stellar fuel efficiency at 35 mpg across the board for the XLE, or 35/34/35 mpg on the Limited and Platinum trim. Regardless of trim, the Highlander Hybrid has a 10-mpg advantage over its gas counterpart.
Having AWD as standard equipment will cost you, though. The 2026 Toyota Highlander now starts at $46,765 for the base XLE trim. Want the hybrid powertrain? That’ll run you $48,515. On the other hand, the Platinum trim checks in at $54,420 for the gas model, or a whopping $56,170 with the hybrid powertrain. On the plus side, upgrading to the hybrid powertrain costs only $1,750. Not bad considering the fuel economy.
The 2026 Highlander arrives at dealerships in November.
Source: Toyota
