The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is a midsize three-row SUV, with prices running from $42,260* on an LE up to $60,175* for a Hybrid MAX Platinum. In Claremont you can place an order with any of the available powertrains: a 2.4L turbo four of 265 hp, or a 245-hp hybrid that will return 37 mpg in city driving, and the 362-hp Hybrid MAX with its 400 lb-ft of torque. Standard on every trim is Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. Towing capacity of 5,000 lb is within the means of the turbo and Hybrid MAX, and as for seating, the model will accommodate seven or eight. For a full accounting of the price points and what they entail by way of horsepower, EPA figures, dimensions and capacity, the breakdown below has all the details.
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Quick Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Powertrain options | 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder gas, 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid, 2.4L turbocharged Hybrid MAX |
| Horsepower by variant | 265 hp (2.4L turbo), 245 hp (2.5L hybrid), 362 hp (Hybrid MAX) |
| Torque by variant | 310 lb-ft (2.4L turbo), 175 lb-ft (2.5L hybrid), 400 lb-ft (Hybrid MAX) |
| EPA MPG by variant | 21/28/24 (2.4L turbo LE, XLE, Limited), 20/26/22 (Platinum), 36/32/34 and 37/34/36 (2.5L hybrid), 26/27/27 (Hybrid MAX) |
| Seating | 8 (LE, Hybrid LE), 7 (all other trims) |
| Towing capacity | 5,000 lb (2.4L turbo and Hybrid MAX), 3,500 lb (2.5L hybrid) |
| Drivetrain options | FWD, AWD available; AWD standard on Hybrid LE, Hybrid Limited, Platinum, both Hybrid MAX trims |
| Standard driver-assist safety suite | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 |
| Starting MSRP | $42,260* (LE) to $60,175* (Hybrid MAX Platinum) |
*MSRP excludes the manufacturer's destination and handling charge, which varies by model. It also excludes the $85 dealer doc fee, taxes, title, license and other applicable fees. Contact dealer for total price.
EPA figures for every configuration are published in the EPA Fuel-Economy Ratings.
What is the Toyota Grand Highlander?
The Grand Highlander is the top of the line in Toyota's crossover stable. A midsize, three-row SUV in place of the ordinary Highlander, it is a premium proposition. Measuring 201.4 inches in all with a 116.1-inch wheelbase, the Grand Highlander puts itself between the Highlander and the body-on-frame Sequoia. That extra length is put to use with a third row for adults rather than one that is merely ornamental, and there are 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space to go with a genuine seven- or eight-passenger complement.
There are ten trims on offer across three powertrains. The gas LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum trims make do with a 2.4L turbo four-cylinder. You would turn to the standard hybrid (LE, XLE, Limited, Nightshade) for better efficiency. Or for 362 hp, the Hybrid MAX employs electric assist on the turbo.
It is no surprise then that Consumer Reports has made the Grand Highlander its 2026 Top Pick for a midsize SUV. On the showroom floor it is head to head with the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, but where those two are strictly gas, the availability of a hybrid is what sets the Toyota apart.
2026 Grand Highlander Trims and Starting MSRP
| Trim | Powertrain | Drivetrain | Starting MSRP | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LE | 2.4L Turbo Gas | FWD (AWD avail.) | $42,260* | Eight-seat capacity at the lowest entry point |
| XLE | 2.4L Turbo Gas | FWD (AWD avail.) | $45,030* | Captain's-chair seven-seat layout on the turbo engine |
| Hybrid LE | 2.5L Hybrid | AWD | $45,610* | Eight seats with 34 mpg combined |
| Hybrid XLE | 2.5L Hybrid | FWD (AWD avail.) | $46,780* | The lineup's efficiency leader at 36 mpg combined |
| Limited | 2.4L Turbo Gas | FWD (AWD avail.) | $49,760* | Upper-tier equipment with 5,000-lb towing |
| Hybrid Limited | 2.5L Hybrid | AWD | $53,110* | All-wheel drive plus 34 mpg combined |
| Hybrid Nightshade | 2.5L Hybrid | FWD | $54,090* | Distinct trim identity within the hybrid lineup |
| Platinum | 2.4L Turbo Gas | AWD | $55,445* | Top gas trim with standard all-wheel drive |
| Hybrid MAX Limited | 2.4L Turbo Hybrid MAX | AWD | $56,090* | 362 hp with 27 mpg combined and 5,000-lb towing |
| Hybrid MAX Platinum | 2.4L Turbo Hybrid MAX | AWD | $60,175* | The fully equipped range-topper |
*MSRP excludes the manufacturer's destination and handling charge, which varies by model. It also excludes the $85 dealer doc fee, taxes, title, license and other applicable fees. Contact dealer for total price.
Should you want to see how the standard equipment is apportioned from one trim to the next, we have more in the way of detail on our Trim Levels Explained page than this spec sheet can offer. Prior to whittling down your options, take a look at what is in stock or put together an estimate for your present vehicle.
Grand Highlander Powertrains, Horsepower and MPG
Three powertrain families are offered, and each carries its own EPA rating and tow figure. Full engine and output data is published in the Official Toyota Specifications.
2.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder: 265 hp, 310 lb-ft
A turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder is what you would find under the hood, good for 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. It is standard fare across the LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum. The EPA rates fuel economy in the LE, XLE and Limited at 21/28/24 (city/highway/combined). The Platinum has the same engine with all-wheel drive as part of the package, and it is rated at 20/26/22.
The remaining three trims are front-wheel drive unless you opt for all-wheel. You get 310 lb-ft of torque from the $42,260* starting price, and a 5,000-lb tow rating is to be had from any of the four trims.
2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid: 245 hp, 175 lb-ft
The standard hybrid can make a case for itself with 245 hp and 175 lb-ft. The Hybrid XLE is highly competitive on efficiency, posting 37/34/36 mpg (city/highway/combined). You would see a slight drop in those numbers with the Hybrid LE, Limited or Nightshade, to 36/32/34. All-wheel drive comes as standard equipment on the LE and Limited. The Nightshade is front-wheel drive only, though the XLE has either to choose from. The powertrain will also allow for 3,500-lb of towing. And if you are making the run from Claremont to Ontario with its share of stop-and-go, this family of vehicles is what will put money back in your pocket.
2.4L Turbocharged Hybrid MAX: 362 hp, 400 lb-ft
The 2.4L turbo of the Hybrid MAX Limited and Platinum is paired with an electric assist to put out 362 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque in all, and you will find all-wheel drive as standard equipment on both. In terms of what the EPA says, these are good for 27 mpg combined or on the highway, 26 around town. As far as output goes, it is a package that has the most to offer in the lineup, not least of which is a 5,000-lb tow rating. At 400 lb-ft, its torque is 90 lb-ft more than the 2.4L turbo's 310, the strongest low-end figure in the lineup.
Grand Highlander Towing by Configuration
| Configuration | Max towing |
|---|---|
| LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum (2.4L Turbo) | 5,000 lb |
| Hybrid LE, Hybrid XLE, Hybrid Limited, Hybrid Nightshade (2.5L Hybrid) | 3,500 lb |
| Hybrid MAX Limited, Hybrid MAX Platinum | 5,000 lb |
The Grand Highlander tows 5,000 lb on turbo and Hybrid MAX trims. It tows 3,500 lb on the standard hybrid.
2026 Grand Highlander Dimensions and Capacities
| Measurement | Figure |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 201.4 in |
| Overall width | 78.3 in |
| Overall height | 72.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 116.1 in |
| Ground clearance | 8.0 in |
| Cargo volume behind third row | 20.6 cu ft |
| Maximum cargo volume | 97.5 cu ft |
| Passenger volume | 153.3 cu ft |
| Seating capacity | 8 (LE, Hybrid LE), 7 (all other trims) |
Grand Highlander stat: 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row is real grocery-run space with all eight seats occupied. Folding everything opens up 97.5 cubic feet.
Quick Take: How the Grand Highlander Compares
- With 362 hp and a 5,000 lb towing capacity, the Hybrid MAX Limited has more in the way of power than any trim of the 2027 Kia Telluride, which tops out at 274 hp. It is priced at $56,090*.
- The Grand Highlander is the sole hybrid in its class (the Palisade being all gas) and four of its trims will put up 34 mpg combined or better.
- You should also cross-shop the 2026 Hyundai Palisade. It starts at $39,435* against the Grand Highlander LE's $42,260*. What the Toyota lineup offers that the Palisade does not is a hybrid option, up to the 362-hp Hybrid MAX on the upper trims, with hybrid trims rated at 34 mpg combined or better.
Driving the Grand Highlander in Claremont
Come to 601 Auto Center Dr in Claremont (CA 91711) and we are there, not far from the 10 and a matter of minutes for the Packing House or the village.
For your weekday commute on Foothill Boulevard into Pomona, or when you head out to Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga, it is the 36 to 37 mpg city figure of the hybrid trims that will be of note. A hybrid system is at its best in such stop-and-go conditions.
Why Buy Your Grand Highlander from Us
- Our Grand Highlander lineup typically covers both the well-equipped XLE and the top Platinum Hybrid MAX, and our team can park them next to each other so a single visit answers the gas-versus-hybrid question that no comparison chart really settles.
- We're located off the 10, which keeps a test drive to a quick detour instead of an afternoon you have to plan around.
- If a previous model year lands closer to your budget, ask our team what three-row SUVs have recently come through our pre-owned inventory, because a lightly used Grand Highlander often delivers the same family space for noticeably less.
- Bring the vehicle you're replacing and we'll appraise it against current market data with our value your trade tool, so the figure you're working with reflects today's numbers rather than a rough estimate.
- Maintenance stays with our shop after the sale, and you can schedule service online the moment an interval comes due instead of waiting on hold.
- We post our service specials so you can see what routine upkeep costs before you commit to an appointment.
- Our shelves carry genuine parts and accessories for cargo organization, roof racks, and all-weather protection, so a family SUV can be outfitted for road trips and school runs without a long special order.
Schedule a Grand Highlander Test Drive in Claremont
When the opportunity presents itself, put the turbo and the Hybrid MAX through their paces in succession. You need only do the first block to see how they differ. We are at (909) 455-9142 if you want to inquire as to what we have in stock prior to coming out, or arrange a test drive with us.
Online is also an option should you wish to schedule financing, obtain hours and directions or place an order for genuine parts and accessories. From our service specials to setting up an appointment for service, it can all be done from your computer. Take a look at our certified pre-owned or the rest of our used inventory as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting MSRP of the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander?
The LE trim has an MSRP of $42,260* to begin with. From there the range goes up: you will find the XLE at $45,030*, the Hybrid LE at $45,610*, then the Limited and its hybrid variant at $49,760* and $53,110* respectively, and the Platinum at $55,445*. The Hybrid MAX Platinum is the most expensive at $60,175*. In all there are ten trims from three powertrain families.How much can the 2026 Grand Highlander tow?
Maximum tow rating is 5,000 lb. That's available on the 2.4L turbocharged trims (LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum) and on both Hybrid MAX trims. The standard 2.5L hybrid trims, which are Hybrid LE, Hybrid XLE, Hybrid Limited, and Hybrid Nightshade, are rated at 3,500 lb.What is the MPG of the 2026 Grand Highlander?
EPA ratings run from 22 to 36 mpg combined. The Hybrid XLE leads at 37 city / 34 highway / 36 combined. Other 2.5L hybrid trims rate 36 / 32 / 34. The Hybrid MAX trims rate 26 / 27 / 27. The LE, XLE, and Limited rate 21 / 28 / 24. The Platinum rates 20 / 26 / 22.How many people does the Grand Highlander seat?
An eight-passenger capacity is possible in the LE and Hybrid LE, courtesy of a bench in the second row. The XLE and Limited, together with their Hybrid equivalents, will only put seven to the captain's chairs that are found there. The same holds true for the Nightshade and Platinum as well as both of the Hybrid MAX models. Passenger volume across the board totals 153.3 cu. ft.How much horsepower does the 2026 Grand Highlander have?
Output ranges from 245 to 362 hp. The 2.5L hybrid produces 245 hp and 175 lb-ft. The 2.4L turbocharged gas engine produces 265 hp and 310 lb-ft. The Hybrid MAX, which pairs that turbo engine with electric assist, produces 362 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.Does the 2026 Grand Highlander come as a hybrid?
Yes, and in two forms. Four trims use the 2.5L hybrid at 245 hp, rated as high as 36 mpg combined. Two trims use the Hybrid MAX, which makes 362 hp and 400 lb-ft while returning 27 mpg combined. Six of the ten trims are electrified.How much cargo space does the Grand Highlander have?
Cargo volume measures 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, which is usable space with all seats in place. Folding the second and third rows opens up a maximum of 97.5 cubic feet. Those figures are identical across every trim and both seating configurations.What are the dimensions of the 2026 Grand Highlander?
Overall length measures 201.4 inches on a 116.1-inch wheelbase. Width is 78.3 inches and height is 72.1 inches. Ground clearance is 8.0 inches. Those numbers are consistent across all ten trims, so a Hybrid MAX Platinum takes up the same garage footprint as an LE.What driver-assist features are standard on the 2026 Grand Highlander?
You will find Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard on all trims, the $60,175* Hybrid MAX Platinum as much as the $42,260* LE. The manufacturer does not curtail or do away with the standard suite in any trim, meaning that for its entry price you get the very same core driver-assist package as is to be had on the top of the range.Which Grand Highlander trim gets the best fuel economy?
The Hybrid XLE is the efficiency leader at 37 mpg city / 34 highway / 36 combined, and it starts at $46,780*. The Hybrid LE, Hybrid Limited, and Hybrid Nightshade follow at 36 / 32 / 34. If efficiency is your top priority, the Hybrid XLE is the pick.What is the difference between the Grand Highlander and the Highlander?
Size and third-row usability separate them. At 201.4 inches long on a 116.1-inch wheelbase, the Grand Highlander is the larger of the two. It offers an adult-usable third row plus 97.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, and it also offers the 362-hp Hybrid MAX powertrain at the top of the range.Is all-wheel drive available on the 2026 Grand Highlander?
Yes. All-wheel drive is standard on the Hybrid LE, Hybrid Limited, Platinum, Hybrid MAX Limited, and Hybrid MAX Platinum. It is available on the LE, XLE, Limited, and Hybrid XLE, which come with front-wheel drive as standard. The Hybrid Nightshade is front-wheel drive.Which trim should you choose for towing?
You will find a 5,000-lb maximum with any of the 2.4L turbo or Hybrid MAX trims. The LE is the way to go for the most economical means of obtaining that rating, at $42,260*. For those in need of 5,000 lb of capacity as well as 400 lb-ft of torque and 27 mpg combined, you would do well to consider the $56,090* Hybrid MAX Limited.How does the Grand Highlander compare to the Kia Telluride on power?
Peak output goes to the Grand Highlander at 362 hp from the Hybrid MAX powertrain, against 274 hp for the 2027 Kia Telluride. The Telluride is also gas only, so there is no hybrid or Hybrid MAX equivalent in its lineup. Telluride pricing starts at $39,190*. The Honda Pilot is another gas-only three-row rival, and its 285 hp tops the Grand Highlander's standard 2.4L turbo but falls short of the Hybrid MAX's 362 hp. The Pilot starts at $42,395*, a slightly higher entry price than the Grand Highlander's $42,260* LE, and it has no hybrid option to match the Toyota's 34+ mpg combined ratings.Which Grand Highlander trims seat eight?
Two trims seat eight: the LE at $42,260* and the Hybrid LE at $45,610*, both using a second-row bench. Every other trim seats seven with captain's chairs in the second row. Cargo volume is the same either way at 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row.What is the most affordable hybrid Grand Highlander?
At $45,610* the Hybrid LE is the most economical of the electrified options. You get standard all-wheel drive and room for eight passengers along with an EPA 36/32/34 city/highway/combined rating. The Hybrid XLE for $46,780*, while that model will put up a combined 36 mpg in efficiency, it does so at the cost of a passenger, seating only seven.What's new for 2026 on the Toyota Grand Highlander?
The update for 2026 is focused on the Hybrid Nightshade edition, which gains a black badge overlay as a new addition for the model year.Is the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander the same as the 2025 model?
The 2026 change is small: the Hybrid Nightshade edition gains a black badge overlay. If you are weighing a leftover 2025 against a 2026, compare trim, price, and equipment before you decide.Sources: EPA Fuel-Economy Ratings · Official Toyota Specifications