For the three-row Toyota SUV shopper, if they found the popular Highlander was just a bit too small for their family needs, but the larger Sequoia was just too big and bold, they would have to compromise and go with one or the other. But that changed a couple of years ago as Toyota managed to squeeze a new SUV between the Highlander and the Sequoia, called the Grand Highlander. This week, a 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander sits in the driveway. Let's look at it.
The Grand Highlander is about 6 inches longer than the regular Highlander. Those extra inches benefit in more cargo space behind the third-row along with more legroom for third-row passengers. Overall, the third-row seat in the Grand Highlander is much more adult-friendly than most three-row SUVs, including the Highlander. And the Grand Highlander isn't just a longer version of the Highlander (much like how the Chevrolet Suburban is simply a stretched Tahoe), instead, the entire body is different, taking on a larger silhouette and is defined by sharper lines and bolder surfaces.
The standard engine in the Grand Highlander is a 2.4 liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque - the same engine used in the regular Highlander. Power is sent to an eight-speed automatic transmission, then to either the front wheels or all wheels, depending on trim level. There are also two different hybrid models available - which will be covered in separate reviews.
The Grand Highlander can be had in four different trim levels. The base LE seats eight by way of a second-row bench seat, and does so on 18-inch wheels, along with a power liftgate, roof rails, keyless entry and start, and a three-zone climate control system. It makes for a good simple people mover with pricing starting at just $43,755. Move up to the XLE, and second row seats become captain's chairs, however seating capacity is reduced to seven. The XLE also gains heated front seats, second-row sunshades and a wireless charging pad. The Grand Highlander starts to get more luxurious with the Limited trim level. Here it gets a hands-free liftgate, leather interior, heated steering wheel, a full digital instrument display and ambient lighting. The top-spec Grand Highlander is the Platinum, where it receives a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, a heads-up display and a digital rear view mirror.
Front-wheel drive is standard on the LE, XLE and Limited trims, with all-wheel drive being an option. Every Platinum comes with all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
When it comes to safety, every Grand Highlander includes Toyota's Safety Sense 3.0 suite of driver assist and active safety features. This includes automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, and road sign recognition.
The tester is a Limited with front-wheel drive. It carries with it an MSRP of $57,065.
Inside, the interior features a symmetrical dashboard design with every Grand Highlander equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The center console is thoughtfully done, with a traditional gear shifter (thank you Toyota!) along with cupholders, charging ports and various controls.
Despite its size, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is easy to drive, but you'll feel its heft when taking sharp corners. The ride is quiet, and it does a good job of absorbing road imperfections providing for a relatively smooth traveling experience. The steering is well-weighted and responsive, and the brakes bring the SUV to a steady halt when called upon. The boosted four-cylinder provides plenty of punch, taking just 7.0 seconds to hit 60 mph which is plenty powerful. Overall, the Grand Highlander is an ideal people mover, whether it be around town or for long distance trips.
These days, Toyota has an SUV for just about any buyer. From the little RAV4 and Corolla Cross to the large Sequia and Land Cruiser. On road, off road, hybrid or even electric, Toyota has it covered. But when the focus is on family and being comfortable, the Grand Highlander is the pick.