2026 Toyota Highlander Review

Choosing between turbo and hybrid comes down to your priorities. Gas models deliver maximum towing strength, while hybrid variants excel at fuel economy. Both options now include standard AWD across every trim level.

Available in XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum grades, the turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generates 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. That torque figure helps the Highlander feel responsive during highway merges and city driving. An 8-speed automatic transmission pairs with the turbo engine across all grades.

The XLE gas model comes with mechanical AWD that can send up to 50% of available torque to the rear wheels when traction demands it. Highlander XSE, Limited, and Platinum grades upgrade to Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, which actively manages power distribution between the front and rear axles. This advanced system also distributes torque between the left and right rear wheels for improved handling.

Fuel economy sits at a manufacturer-estimated 24 mpg combined for gas models. Towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds, making these variants ideal for hauling boats or campers to lakes around Arizona.

Highlander Hybrids arrive in XLE, Limited, and Platinum trim levels. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine works with two electric motor-generators to produce 243 net combined horsepower. The hybrid system delivers quick acceleration thanks to instant electric torque, and regenerative braking captures energy during deceleration to recharge the battery pack.

Every 2026 Highlander Hybrid includes Electronic On-Demand AWD, which uses a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed. This setup operates seamlessly without mechanical complexity. Fuel economy reaches a manufacturer-estimated 35 mpg combined, and towing capacity maxes out at 3,500 pounds.

Both powertrains offer selectable drive modes. Hybrid models add an EV mode for short-distance, electric-only driving at low speeds.

Multi-Terrain Select gives drivers control over traction settings. Mud & Sand mode works well for desert trails or beach driving, while Rock & Dirt mode optimizes grip for rocky Arizona terrain. The system displays real-time torque distribution on the Multi-Information Display, so you can monitor how power flows to each wheel.

The 2026 Highlander XSE grade stands out with sport-tuned suspension components. High-rate springs, a rear stabilizer bar, and low-friction shock absorbers work with tuned electric power steering to create a more athletic driving experience. On canyon roads leading to Sedona or Prescott, the XSE delivers noticeably sharper handling than other Highlander trims.

Space matters when you're hauling kids and gear. The Toyota Highlander in Mesa AZ offers thoughtful seating arrangements and practical storage solutions for active families.

Standard three-row seating accommodates seven passengers with second-row captain's chairs. XLE and Limited gas grades offer a second-row bench seat that increases capacity to eight. 

Second-row seats slide and recline for added flexibility. Captain's chairs create a natural walkway to the third row, eliminating the need to tumble seats forward. The third row itself offers decent space for kids or shorter adults, with sliding headrests and reclining capability.

Behind the third row, you'll find 16.0 cubic feet of cargo space. That's enough for grocery bags, sports equipment, or luggage for a weekend trip. Fold the third row flat and capacity expands to 48.4 cubic feet, accommodating double strollers, camping gear, or large shopping hauls.

With both rear rows folded, the Highlander opens up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space. This maximum configuration handles furniture, outdoor equipment, or a college kid’s dorm room furnishings. Split-folding seats let you balance passenger and cargo needs based on each trip.

Every 2026 Highlander includes a power liftgate as standard equipment. Limited and Platinum grades add hands-free operation, allowing you to open the liftgate with a foot motion under the rear bumper.

Three-zone automatic climate control ensures comfortable temperatures throughout the cabin. With separate controls for front and rear passengers, this feature proves especially valuable during Arizona summers when temperatures exceed 110 degrees.

Two USB-C ports and one USB-A port sit at the bottom of the center stack for front passengers. Second-row passengers get two USB-C ports located at the rear base of the center console. Qi-compatible wireless charging comes standard on most trims, keeping phones powered without cables. 

Highlander XLE gas and hybrid models include an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat. Limited and Platinum grades upgrade both front seats to power adjustment, with the driver's seat gaining 10-way adjustability and memory function. These upper trims also add ventilated front seats, plus two rows of heated seats on the 2026 Highlander Platinum in Mesa AZ.

SofTex upholstery appears in XLE and XSE trims, while Limited and Platinum grades feature rich leathers. The Highlander Platinum grade exclusively offers a glazed caramel interior color option alongside traditional black and graphite choices.

Second-row sunshades come standard on XLE and higher trims, providing protection from harsh sunlight. The panoramic moonroof available on Limited and standard on Platinum adds an open, airy feeling to the cabin while still blocking UV rays.

Technology keeps families entertained and informed during drives around the Valley or road trips across the Southwest. An 8-inch touchscreen comes standard on XLE grades with six-speaker audio. 

XSE, Limited, and Platinum models upgrade to a 12.3-inch touchscreen with enhanced graphics and more screen real estate. The system supports touch inputs and voice commands through the "Hey Toyota" intelligent assistant.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility come standard across all trims. These systems mirror your smartphone's interface on the Highlander's screen, giving you access to navigation apps, music streaming services, and messaging features. Dual Bluetooth phone connectivity allows two devices to pair simultaneously.

Drive Connect includes Intelligent Assistant for voice-activated controls. Ask the system to adjust climate settings, find directions, or change audio sources without taking your hands off the wheel. Cloud Navigation provides real-time traffic updates and current map data, while Destination Assist connects you to a live agent for 24/7 help finding locations.

Wi-Fi Connect transforms the Highlander into a mobile hotspot, supporting up to five devices with 4G connectivity. This subscription-based feature keeps tablets and laptops connected during long drives to Flagstaff or weekend trips.

Remote Connect lets you control vehicle functions through the Toyota app on your smartphone. Lock or unlock doors, remote start the engine, and check vehicle status from anywhere. You can also activate headlights, view fuel level, and receive maintenance reminders.

Limited and Platinum trims include an 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio system as standard equipment. The XSE grade offers this system as an upgrade option. With 1,200 watts of power and strategically placed speakers including a subwoofer, concert-quality sound is on tap every day.

Clari-Fi technology enhances compressed digital audio files, restoring detail lost during compression. Whether you're streaming music or playing downloaded tracks, the system optimizes sound quality automatically.

Adding more screen space, Limited and Platinum grades upgrade to a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that replaces traditional analog instruments with customizable displays. You can configure the screen to show navigation maps, audio information, or vehicle data.

Platinum models add a 10-inch color Head-Up Display that projects key information onto the windshield. Speed, navigation directions, and safety alerts appear in your line of sight, reducing the need to look down at the instrument cluster.

Each grade brings distinct styling elements and feature sets. Exterior differences range from subtle to bold depending on your choice.

The XLE grade rides on 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels and includes a power tilt moonroof. Highlander exterior colors include Midnight Black Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, and Blueprint as no-cost options. Heavy Metal, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Wind Chill Pearl cost extra. Chrome accents appear around the grille and windows for a polished look.

Exclusive to gas models, the XSE embraces athletic design. All-black 20-inch wheels wrapped in 235/55R20 all-season tires make a bold statement. The front fascia, grille, lower spoiler, and headlamps receive XSE-specific treatments that set this grade apart.

Unique rocker panels emphasize the Highlander's sculpted profile. Black roof rails, mirror caps, and window moldings create a cohesive blacked-out theme. Twin exhaust tips finish the rear styling. Inside, black SofTex seats, ambient lighting, and carbon-fiber style trim pieces reinforce the sporty character.

Limited grades step up to 20-inch alloy wheels with a more sophisticated finish. Power-folding heated mirrors include turn signals, blind spot warning indicators, and puddle lights that project the Highlander logo. The grille features black paint with chrome-plated surround for an upscale appearance.

High-output LED fog lights improve visibility in dust storms or foggy conditions. Wood door and dash trim pieces add warmth to the interior, while leather-trimmed seats provide premium comfort. A height-adjustable hands-free power liftgate adds convenience.

Top-tier Platinum models include every Limited feature plus additional luxury touches. A panoramic glass moonroof with front power tilt/slide function opens the cabin to Arizona's clear skies. The digital rearview mirror eliminates blind spots by displaying a live camera feed with the touch of a button.

Rain-sensing wipers activate automatically when moisture hits the windshield. Illuminated front doorsill metal scuff plates greet you at entry. LED projector headlights with Adaptive Front-Lighting System and auto-leveling ensure optimal illumination on winding roads. The Panoramic View Monitor provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle with perimeter scan capability, making parking in tight spaces easier.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ equips every 2026 Highlander with comprehensive crash avoidance technology. These systems work together to reduce accident risks during daily driving.

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection monitors the road ahead and can apply emergency braking if a potential collision is detected. The system recognizes vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists in various lighting conditions.

Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control maintains a set following distance from vehicles ahead. The system works in stop-and-go traffic, bringing the Highlander to a complete stop and resuming when traffic moves. Lane Tracing Assist helps keep the SUV centered in its lane on highways, reducing driver fatigue during long trips.

Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist warns you if the Highlander drifts from its lane without signaling. The system can provide gentle steering inputs to guide you back. Road Sign Assist recognizes speed limit signs and displays them on the Multi-Information Display. Automatic High Beams toggle between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic and vehicles ahead.

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert comes standard on all trims. Indicators in the side mirrors illuminate when vehicles enter your blind spots. When backing out of parking spaces, the system warns of approaching cross traffic.

Limited and Platinum grades add Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking. Sensors detect obstacles and can apply brakes automatically to prevent low-speed collisions. The Panoramic View Monitor on Platinum provides a bird's-eye view during parking maneuvers, with a perimeter scan function that reveals activity around the vehicle.

The 2025 Highlander earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, demonstrating strong crashworthiness and effective collision avoidance systems. The 2026 model shares similar safety architecture, though official IIHS testing results may not yet be available.

Arizona's varied terrain – from Interstate 17's climb to Flagstaff to desert trails near Phoenix – benefits from AWD's enhanced traction. Summer monsoons create slick roads, while winter brings snow to higher elevations. Standard AWD across the lineup means every 2026 Toyota Highlander in Mesa handles these conditions with confidence.

The gas-powered XLE grade uses a mechanical AWD system that can direct up to 50% of available torque to the rear wheels when sensors detect front wheel slip. This straightforward system provides confident traction on wet roads, loose gravel, or light snow without adding excessive complexity.

Gas-powered XSE, Limited, and Platinum models feature Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD. This advanced system manages torque distribution not just between front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels. Rear Driveline Disconnect automatically switches to front-wheel drive when AWD isn't needed.

Multi-Terrain Select gives you control over AWD behavior through a console-mounted dial. Mud & Sand mode adjusts throttle response and traction control for loose surfaces like desert washes or sandy beaches. Rock & Dirt mode optimizes low-speed traction for rocky trails and uneven terrain common in Arizona's backcountry.

All hybrid models use Electronic On-Demand AWD, which employs a dedicated electric motor to power the rear wheels. The rear motor activates only when sensors detect slippage or when additional traction benefits handling.

Because the system relies on electric motors rather than mechanical parts, it operates silently and responds instantly. No delay occurs between detecting the need for AWD and engaging the rear wheels. The hybrid battery provides power for the rear motor without drawing from the gas engine.

The 2026 Toyota Highlander price starts at $45,270 MSRP for the gas-powered XLE grade, excluding dealer processing and handling fees. That's an increase from the 2025 model, but you now get standard AWD instead of front-wheel drive. The 2026 Highlander Hybrid price begins at $47,020 MSRP for the Hybrid XLE grade.

Platinum grades represent the top of the lineup. Prices for these luxury-equipped models will vary based on dealer, but expect them to approach the mid-$50,000 range. Check with our Mesa Toyota dealership for current pricing and available incentives.

In addition to standard warranty coverage, hybrid-related components receive 8 years/100,000 miles of warranty coverage. The hybrid battery itself gains even longer protection at 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty transfers to subsequent owners, adding value to used hybrid purchases.

Gas models offer 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, suitable for travel trailers, boat trailers, or toy haulers. Trailer Sway Control uses Vehicle Stability Control to counteract unwanted trailer movement. Hybrid models provide 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, adequate for smaller campers or utility trailers.

When properly equipped with roof racks, the Highlander can carry up to 220 pounds on the roof. Cargo boxes, bike racks, or kayak carriers expand the SUV's versatility for outdoor adventures.

Every new Highlander includes ToyotaCare, covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles. This plan includes oil changes, tire rotations, multi-point inspections, and fluid level checks.

Roadside Assistance lasts 2 years with unlimited mileage. Services include towing, jump starts, tire changes, lockout assistance, and fuel delivery. Help is available 24/7 anywhere in the United States.

Standard all-wheel drive, simplified trim choices, and proven reliability make the 2026 Toyota Highlander a compelling three-row SUV for families. Whether you value the turbo's 5,000-pound towing capacity or the hybrid's 35 mpg combined rating, both powertrains deliver the space and features active families need.

Exploring the 2026 Toyota Highlander in Phoenix means experiencing how it handles Arizona's unique conditions. Test the AWD systems on local roads, check out cargo space with your family's gear, and compare trim levels to find the right fit. From daily commutes on Loop 101 to weekend escapes up the Beeline Highway, this midsize SUV adapts to diverse driving demands.

Schedule a test drive at Earnhardt Toyota in Mesa to compare hybrid and turbo models firsthand. Experience the difference standard AWD makes when you get behind the wheel.