2026 Toyota Grand Highlander: what it offers, key specs, standout features, and things to consider.

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✅ Key Specs & Features

• Powertrain Options:

  • Gasoline-only: 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder, 265 hp and 310 lb-ft torque. 

  • Hybrid: 2.5 L hybrid variant (efficiency-oriented). 

  • Hybrid MAX ("performance hybrid”): Delivers ~362 hp (in the top trim) with hybrid + turbo combo. 

• Drivetrain: Available front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) depending on powertrain/trim. 

• Seating & Space: Up to 8 seats in certain configurations (or 7 seats with second-row captain chairs) and adult-sized third row. 

• Cargo Space: Up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space when rear seats folded. 

• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs for some trims (gas/Hybrid MAX) and lesser for hybrid efficiency variants. 

• Technology & Comfort:

  • Standard large multimedia screen (12.3-inch touchscreen) and modern connectivity. 

  • Multi-zone climate control, USB-C ports, available second-row captain chairs, acoustic glass in some trims. 

• Pricing & Trim Highlights:

  • Starting MSRP around $41,360 for the base gas LE (FWD) model. 

  • Hybrid models start higher; Hybrid MAX and top trims (Platinum, etc) go substantially higher. 

• Fuel Economy (for gas engine version): Roughly 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined (FWD gas version). 

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🎯 What’s New / What Stands Out

• The "Grand” in Grand Highlander means this model is larger/more spacious than the standard Toyota Highlander. It emphasizes more third-row space, more cargo volume. 

• Introduction of the Hybrid MAX powertrain option (~362 hp) gives buyers a higher-performance three-row SUV from Toyota. 

• Enhanced comfort, premium interior touches, modern tech combos including updated Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 3.0) safety suite standard. 

• Built in the U.S. (Princeton, Indiana) indicating local manufacturing. 

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👥 Who It’s For & Considerations

Who it’s good for:

• Families needing a true three-row SUV with more room in the third row and more cargo space than many midsize three-rows.

• Buyers who want a combination of practicality + modern tech + flexibility in powertrains (gas, hybrid, or higher performance hybrid).

• Those who appreciate Toyota’s reputation for reliability and resale value.

Things to consider / trade-offs:

• While the Hybrid variant offers efficiency, the gas engine is adequate but not ultra-sporty; if you prioritize fuel economy, the hybrid version is more compelling.

• Although spacious, any three-row SUV has inherent compromises — third row may be best for children/teens rather than full-time adult usage depending on configuration.

• Pricing climbs significantly as you go up trims and opt for Hybrid MAX or Platinum—so budget accordingly.

• The largest size (Grand) may make parking, maneuvering, and fuel costs a bit higher vs smaller SUVs or crossovers.

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🔍 My Verdict

If I were shopping and needed a three-row SUV that balanced comfort, space, tech, and optional higher power, the 2026 Grand Highlander would be high on my list. It offers more "room to grow” than many alternatives. On the flip side, if you rarely use the third row or if you prioritize lowest cost/lowest operating cost, you might consider whether the standard Highlander or a smaller three-row model suffices.

If you like, I can pull up comparisons (e.g., vs. Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, etc), and also check what’s available near East Hills, NY / typical pricing now for the 2026 Grand Highlander. Would you like that?