New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander: The Ultimate Midsize SUV

The automotive world is abuzz with the imminent arrival of the all-new 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander. This highly anticipated SUV promises to redefine the midsize segment with its bold design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive performance capabilities. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a family on the go, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, the New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is sure to exceed your expectations.

In this comprehensive overview, we will delve into the intricate details of this remarkable vehicle, exploring its stunning exterior, luxurious interior, advanced powertrain, and an array of safety and technology features that will redefine your driving experience. Prepare to be captivated as we unveil the New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander, the epitome of automotive excellence.

Overview of the New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is a three-row SUV that slots above the Highlander in Toyota’s lineup. It’s larger than the Highlander, with more passenger and cargo space, and it offers a more powerful engine. The Grand Highlander is aimed at families who need a spacious and versatile SUV that can handle long road trips and everyday errands.

The Grand Highlander is available in three trim levels: XLE, Limited, and Platinum. All models come standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available as an option.

The Grand Highlander has a spacious interior with seating for up to eight passengers. The first two rows of seats are comfortable and supportive, and the third row is surprisingly spacious for an SUV of this size. The Grand Highlander also has a large cargo area, with 16.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row of seats and 84.3 cubic feet of space with the second and third rows folded down.

The Grand Highlander is a well-equipped SUV, with a long list of standard features. All models come with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a suite of safety features. Available features include a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and a JBL premium audio system.

The Grand Highlander is a great choice for families who need a spacious and versatile SUV. It has a powerful engine, a comfortable interior, and a long list of standard features.

Exterior Design and Features

The Grand Highlander exudes a bold and muscular stance, with its imposing grille and sharp character lines. Its overall shape is reminiscent of the rugged Highlander, but with a more elongated and streamlined profile. The sloping roofline and sleek taillights give it a sporty and dynamic appearance.

Distinctive Design Elements

One of the most striking features of the Grand Highlander is its massive grille. The honeycomb mesh pattern and chrome accents create a commanding presence on the road. The LED headlights are narrow and sleek, giving the vehicle a fierce and aggressive look.

Another notable design element is the floating roof. The blacked-out pillars create the illusion that the roof is suspended above the body, adding a touch of sophistication and style. The large alloy wheels and sculpted side skirts further enhance the vehicle’s sporty character.

Interior Design and Amenities

The interior of the Grand Highlander is designed to be spacious, comfortable, and technologically advanced. The cabin features a premium design with high-quality materials and a focus on ergonomics.

The seats are upholstered in leather and offer ample support and cushioning. The front seats are power-adjustable and feature heating and cooling functions. The second row of seats is spacious and offers plenty of legroom and headroom. The third row of seats is designed for occasional use and is best suited for children or small adults.

The climate control system is automatic and features dual-zone temperature control. The infotainment system is controlled through a large touchscreen display that is mounted in the center of the dashboard. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and offers a variety of features, including navigation, music streaming, and voice control.

Overall, the interior of the Grand Highlander is well-appointed and offers a high level of comfort and convenience.

Seating

The Grand Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers. The front seats are power-adjustable and feature heating and cooling functions. The second row of seats is spacious and offers plenty of legroom and headroom. The third row of seats is designed for occasional use and is best suited for children or small adults.

Climate Control

The climate control system is automatic and features dual-zone temperature control. The system allows the driver and front passenger to set different temperatures for their respective sides of the cabin. The rear seats also have their own climate control vents.

Infotainment System

The infotainment system is controlled through a large touchscreen display that is mounted in the center of the dashboard. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and offers a variety of features, including navigation, music streaming, and voice control. The system also includes a premium audio system with nine speakers.

Safety and Technology Features

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander boasts an array of cutting-edge safety features designed to protect occupants and enhance driving confidence.

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard on all Grand Highlander models, providing a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies. These include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are also standard, while a 360-degree surround-view camera system is available as an option.

The Grand Highlander has earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick+” designation from the IIHS.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The Grand Highlander offers an array of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that enhance safety and convenience. These include:
– Lane Tracing Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, even on curves.
– Road Sign Assist: Recognizes and displays road signs, including speed limits and stop signs.
– Adaptive Headlights: Adjust the beam pattern to optimize visibility without blinding oncoming drivers.
– Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking: Assists with parking maneuvers and can automatically apply the brakes to prevent collisions.

Comparison to Competitors

The New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander competes in the midsize SUV segment against established rivals like the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Mazda CX-9.

In terms of design, the Grand Highlander offers a bold and rugged exterior with sharp lines and a muscular stance. It features a spacious cabin with ample seating for up to eight passengers. Compared to its competitors, the Grand Highlander has a more aggressive and imposing design, while the Pilot has a more understated and family-friendly appearance. The Palisade and Telluride have more elegant and refined exteriors, while the CX-9 has a sportier and more athletic design.

Regarding features, the Grand Highlander comes standard with a wide range of amenities, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and heated front seats. It also offers advanced safety features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Compared to its competitors, the Grand Highlander has a comprehensive suite of features, but the Pilot offers a more extensive list of standard features, including a rear-seat entertainment system and a hands-free tailgate. The Palisade and Telluride have similar levels of features, while the CX-9 has a more driver-oriented focus with features like a head-up display and paddle shifters.

In terms of performance, the Grand Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Compared to its competitors, the Grand Highlander has a competitive powertrain, but the Pilot offers a more powerful engine option with 300 horsepower. The Palisade and Telluride have similar levels of performance, while the CX-9 has a more agile and responsive handling.

Regarding price, the Grand Highlander has a starting price of around £40,000, which is in line with its competitors. The Pilot has a slightly lower starting price, while the Palisade and Telluride are priced similarly to the Grand Highlander. The CX-9 has a higher starting price but offers a more premium experience.

Overall, the New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is a compelling option in the midsize SUV segment. It offers a bold design, a spacious and well-equipped cabin, a competitive powertrain, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. While it faces strong competition from established rivals, the Grand Highlander’s combination of features and value makes it a strong contender for buyers looking for a versatile and capable SUV.

Pricing and Availability

The pricing and trim levels for the New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander have not yet been officially announced by Toyota. However, it is expected to be priced competitively within its segment.

The vehicle is expected to be released in late 2023 as a 2024 model. It will be available in various trim levels, including a base model, an XLE model, a Limited model, and a Platinum model.

Toyota may offer special offers or incentives at launch to attract early adopters. These may include lease deals, financing options, or rebates. It’s advisable to check with local Toyota dealerships for the latest information on pricing and availability in your area.

FAQ Summary

What sets the New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander apart from other midsize SUVs?

The Grand Highlander boasts a distinctive combination of rugged capability, sophisticated style, and advanced technology that sets it apart from its competitors. Its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and an array of safety and driver-assistance features make it an ideal choice for families and adventure enthusiasts alike.

What are the key features of the Grand Highlander’s interior?

The Grand Highlander’s interior is a sanctuary of comfort and convenience, featuring premium materials, ample legroom, and a host of amenities. Its intuitive infotainment system, panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated seats elevate every journey to a first-class experience.

How does the Grand Highlander perform on the road?

Under the hood, the Grand Highlander offers a choice of powerful and efficient engines that deliver responsive acceleration and impressive fuel economy. Its advanced suspension system ensures a smooth and stable ride, whether navigating city streets or venturing off the beaten path.

What safety features are available on the Grand Highlander?

The Grand Highlander prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. These include lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, providing peace of mind and enhanced protection on every drive.

When can I get my hands on the New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander?

The New 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is expected to arrive in dealerships later this year. Stay tuned for updates on its official release date and pricing information.