2026 Toyota Highlander is Toyota’s new three row midsize SUV. It has just been introduced with a stronger exterior design and a more modern, upgraded interior. The vehicle offers two powertrain options, gasoline and hybrid, aiming to balance power and fuel efficiency. The 2026 Highlander debuts with slim headlights connected by a sharp daytime running LED strip and a two tier horizontal grille that gives it a bold character. It also features full width LED taillights that create a continuous light bar, improving road presence and recognition. In addition, the 2026 Highlander offers a glossy black Nightshade exterior package and an Anniversary appearance package to add a younger, sportier feel. In Vietnam, . Although the price is higher than the previous generation, the 2026 Highlander brings a lot of worthwhile upgrades, especially in technology and comfort.

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Modern exterior with strong SUV character

The exterior of the 2026 Toyota Highlander has been refreshed to look more dynamic and modern. Slim headlights connected by a stiff LED strip give the front end a futuristic impression, while the two tier horizontal grille makes the face of the SUV look more aggressive. The full width LED light bar at the rear is a distinctive highlight that improves visibility and identity at night. Toyota also adds larger alloy wheel options, a blacked out Nightshade package and an Anniversary package with special body colors, helping the Highlander stand out more in a crowded segment. Overall, the 2026 Highlander’s design strikes a balance between youthfulness and toughness, which suits family buyers who still want a bit of style. Although this is not a radical redesign, these tweaks help the 2026 Highlander feel less bland and more in line with current SUV trends.

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Spacious interior and high tech features

Inside, the 2026 Toyota Highlander focuses on practicality, comfort and in car technology. The main highlight is the wide digital layout that combines an 8.0 inch standard or 12.3 inch optional central touchscreen with an independent 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster on higher trims. All models support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and there is a convenient Qi wireless charging pad. The center console is laid out cleanly with traditional physical climate control knobs and a push button style electronic shifter that replaces the old mechanical gear lever, making the cabin look more contemporary. Depending on the trim, the seats can be upholstered in leather or high quality SofTex synthetic leather, with an 8 way power adjustable driver’s seat that can include heating, ventilation and memory on Limited and Platinum trims. Ambient interior lighting and a panoramic moonroof help create a more upscale feel for occupants.

Space in the first and second rows is generous. The driver and front passenger have plenty of adjustment and support, while the second row offers good legroom and headroom for adults. The third row, however, is still best suited for children or smaller passengers, which is a familiar limitation in this class. With the optional bench seat in the second row, the Highlander can seat up to eight people. When you fold down the second and third rows, the cargo volume grows to 84.3 cubic feet, which is very generous for long trips and bulky luggage. The three zone climate control system helps all rows stay comfortable. Materials and build quality are solid and carefully finished, giving the cabin a reassuring, durable feel.

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Safety technology and driver assistance

The 2026 Highlander inherits the latest Toyota Safety Sense package. Depending on the market, that is TSS 2.5+ in the United States or TSS 3.0 in some other regions. It combines multiple advanced driver assistance systems. Standard features include a pre collision system with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian and bicyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane centering, road sign recognition and automatic high beams. Toyota also adds features such as intersection assist and additional stability controls that help when towing, improving safety in real world use.

Blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert are available and often standard on mid to high trims. On the top trims, the 2026 Highlander also offers a 360 degree camera system and front and rear parking sensors, which make parking and maneuvering in tight spots much easier. Crash tests have rated the current Highlander as one of the safest SUVs in its segment, with five stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS on recent model years. As a result, the 2026 Highlander continues to be a very reassuring choice for families who put safety first.

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Infotainment screen and modern convenience

The 2026 Highlander uses Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system, with two touchscreen options: a standard 8 inch screen and an upgraded 12.3 inch screen on Limited and Platinum trims, or as an option on certain mid range versions. Both screens support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration for navigation and entertainment. Higher trims can be equipped with an 11 speaker JBL audio system with a subwoofer, built in navigation and a 10 inch head up display that projects key information onto the windshield on the Platinum trim.

The SUV offers up to five USB ports, including front Type C ports, a wireless charging pad and numerous storage compartments in the dashboard and center console. With this hardware, the 2026 Highlander delivers a tech experience that can rival some entry level luxury models, making long family journeys more enjoyable and less tiring.

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Ride comfort and sound insulation

The driving character of the 2026 Highlander leans toward comfort and smoothness. The cabin is well insulated. At highway speeds, wind and road noise are kept nicely in check, so conversations between rows are easy. The independent rear suspension combined with well tuned dampers helps the vehicle glide over city streets and highways with a relaxed, controlled feel. Like many three row SUVs, you can still sense some body movement and a bit of floatiness on rougher surfaces or over large bumps, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded, but overall the ride quality is clearly tuned for family comfort rather than sporty handling.

For drivers, the steering is light at low speeds and firms up somewhat on the highway. It is not a sporty steering feel, but it is predictable and easy to get used to. The overall impression is that the 2026 Highlander is a quiet, calm SUV that takes the stress out of commuting and long drives, which is exactly what many families are looking for.

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Space and everyday practicality

The 2026 Toyota Highlander is configured to maximize everyday usability. It can be set up with seating for seven or eight, depending on whether you select second row captain’s chairs or a bench seat. The second row is wide, flexible and can slide and recline to balance legroom between rows or to open up more cargo space. The third row, as mentioned, is somewhat tight for adults, but it works for kids or short trips. This is a common compromise in this midsize three row class.

When you need to carry large or bulky items, folding the second and third rows flat gives you up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo room. That is plenty for camping gear, sports equipment, or large boxes. Toyota also includes handy touches such as large door pockets, multiple cup holders, small item cubbies, and power windows for all rows. A rearview camera and parking sensors make backing up easier, and the panoramic camera system on top trims gives a full overhead view of the vehicle in tight spaces. Overall, the 2026 Highlander offers the space and flexibility that a typical family of four or five will appreciate, especially those who travel often and carry a lot of luggage.

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Gasoline and hybrid engines: power and efficiency

As with the current generation, the 2026 Toyota Highlander offers two main powertrains: a 2.4 liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a 2.5 liter hybrid system. The 2.4 liter turbo four cylinder produces about 265 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque. It works with an eight speed automatic transmission and an advanced all wheel drive system. This engine delivers enough thrust for confident merging and passing, with 0 to 100 km/h taking roughly 7 to 8 seconds. When properly equipped with the tow package, the gasoline Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is about 2,268 kilograms. That is enough capacity for a mid size camper, a boat or a loaded utility trailer. Fuel economy for the turbo gasoline model is around 24 mpg combined, which works out to roughly 9.8 liters per 100 km. This is not outstanding, but it is acceptable for a three row midsize SUV.

The hybrid version uses a 2.5 liter gasoline engine paired with two electric motors for a combined output of about 243 horsepower. The hybrid’s main strength is fuel economy. Toyota quotes about 35 mpg combined, which is approximately 6.7 liters per 100 km, a figure that rivals some midsize sedans. In everyday driving, the Highlander Hybrid can run in EV mode at low speeds, further enhancing efficiency in stop and go traffic. Its towing capacity is lower than the gasoline model, at around 3,500 pounds, or about 1.6 tons, because of the nature of the hybrid powertrain, but that is still sufficient for smaller campers or utility trailers. The hybrid also offers Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes, as well as adjustable regenerative braking to fine tune the driving feel. Overall, the hybrid version delivers smooth, quiet acceleration and strong fuel savings, while the gasoline turbo provides more muscle for those who tow heavy or frequently drive with a full load.

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Is the hybrid really strong and efficient enough?

Many buyers wonder if the 2026 Highlander Hybrid is truly powerful enough when it is time to tow and whether it is genuinely economical for daily commuting. In practice, 243 horsepower and a 3,500 pound tow rating allow the hybrid Highlander to handle typical family tasks easily: towing a small camping trailer, a light utility trailer, or small equipment. While it cannot match the 5,000 pound rating of the turbo gasoline version, most families rarely tow at the upper limit. In return, the hybrid’s 35 mpg combined rating means obvious savings at the pump. For drivers who mainly use their SUV for commuting, school runs and weekend trips, the hybrid offers the right blend of usable power and fuel efficiency. If you frequently tow heavier loads or prefer a stronger acceleration feel, the turbo gasoline model will be better suited. But for most daily use cases, the Highlander Hybrid is absolutely strong enough and impressively economical.

Comparison with the previous generation and segment rivals

The 2026 Toyota Highlander is a mid cycle refresh, not a complete redesign. That means the underlying platform and overall layout are very similar to the current model, but the 2026 version brings notable improvements in technology and features. Compared with a 2019 to 2023 Highlander, the 2026 model stands out with larger screens, a full digital instrument cluster on higher trims, a more modern multimedia system and broader availability of all wheel drive on gasoline versions. For owners of older Highlanders, upgrading to the 2026 model will mainly be about enjoying these tech and comfort upgrades rather than dramatic changes in driving character. If your current vehicle is several years old and you value updated safety and infotainment, the 2026 Highlander is a sensible and satisfying step up. If you are waiting for a complete next generation redesign, you may need to be patient, because Toyota has not yet announced a fully new Highlander platform.

In the three row midsize SUV class, the 2026 Toyota Highlander competes with models like the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Subaru Ascent, Ford Explorer and Toyota’s own larger Grand Highlander. In many comparison tests, the Palisade and Telluride often get high marks for their upscale interiors and rich feature lists, while the Highlander is praised for safety and reliability. The arrival of the Grand Highlander, which is larger and sometimes priced aggressively, has actually eaten into the Highlander’s sales in some markets. Even so, the Highlander maintains a strong reputation for long term durability and good resale value. For buyers who prioritize brand reliability and an established track record, the 2026 Highlander remains a very compelling choice.

Market positioning and target buyers

The 2026 Highlander is aimed squarely at families who need a versatile three row SUV. In markets such as Vietnam, it is often seen as a more upscale alternative to models like the Fortuner or Trailblazer, chosen by customers who want stability, comfort and safety in one package. The introduction of the 2026 model, along with the hybrid version, also targets buyers who pay attention to fuel consumption and who drive daily in urban environments. In key markets like the United States, the Highlander has long been one of Toyota’s best selling SUVs, even though its numbers have dipped somewhat recently due to new in house competitors. The typical 2026 Highlander buyer is a family of three to five who travel often, carry a fair amount of luggage and want the flexibility of three rows without stepping up to a much larger and more expensive vehicle like the Grand Highlander or a Lexus model. The main mission of the 2026 Highlander is to serve as a reliable family vehicle for everyday commuting, school runs and weekend adventures, with enough capability to handle moderate towing when needed.

How to protect your 2026 Toyota Highlander

To keep your 2026 Toyota Highlander looking new inside and out, it is important to invest in the right protective accessories. A good starting point is a quality car cover. For example, a custom fit cover from a brand such as US Car Cover can help shield the paint and trim from UV rays, acid rain, dust, bird droppings and tree sap when the vehicle is parked outdoors or even in a dusty garage. A well designed cover also reduces the risk of light scratches and swirl marks when people brush past the vehicle in tight spaces.

Beyond that, window tinting and ceramic coating for the paint can protect against UV damage and fading over time, as well as make cleaning easier. Inside the cabin, all weather floor mats and a cargo liner protect the carpets and cargo area from dirt, spills and wear, especially if you have kids or frequently haul gear. It is also important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule at authorized dealerships so that the drivetrain and electronics remain in good condition. With these measures, your 2026 Highlander will retain its fresh appearance and strong performance for many years.

In conclusion, the 2026 Toyota Highlander is a notable family SUV with many strengths. It combines a refreshed, modern design, a well equipped and comfortable interior, and advanced safety technology. The 2026 Highlander preserves Toyota’s core values of durability, safety and versatility, while adding a hybrid option that significantly improves fuel economy. If you are looking for a three row SUV that is smooth, stable and packed with useful technology, the 2026 Highlander is a very strong candidate.

If you want the most space or a more premium cabin feel, models like the Hyundai Palisade or Kia Telluride may be worth a look, and if you need maximum room, the Grand Highlander might be the better fit. For current Highlander owners, upgrading to the 2026 model brings clear gains in tech and comfort. For new buyers who value reliability, safety and long term value, it is absolutely a model to put on your shortlist. Whatever you decide, do not forget that proper protection and maintenance, including a quality cover from US Car Cover, will help your 2026 Toyota Highlander stay looking and driving like new throughout its life