2026 Toyota Grand Highlander in Hagerstown, MD

 

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is engineered with three distinct powertrain configurations designed to address different performance and efficiency requirements. The gas-powered model uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 2,393 cubic centimeters. This engine produces 265 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 310 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,700 and 3,600 rpm. It features a 16-valve valvetrain with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence and operates with a compression ratio of 11.0 to 1. The ignition system uses Toyota Direct Ignition, and the fuel system utilizes D-4S direct and port injection.

The hybrid configuration uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 2,487 cubic centimeters. This system produces 245 net combined horsepower. The gasoline portion of the hybrid system generates 187 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 177 lb.-ft. of torque at higher rpm ranges. The hybrid system uses a permanent magnet synchronous motor and a nickel-metal hydride battery with a nominal voltage of 259 volts.

The Hybrid MAX configuration combines a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with an electrified system to deliver 362 net combined horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm. The gas engine component produces 265 horsepower and 332 lb.-ft. of torque. The battery system in this configuration operates at a higher nominal voltage of 288 volts, supporting increased output and sustained performance.

Integrated Technology and Digital Interfaces

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander includes a 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen across all grades. This system supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and includes SiriusXM® integration. Audio systems vary by trim, with a standard 6-speaker system or an available 11-speaker JBL® premium audio system with subwoofer and amplifier.

Driver information systems include an available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with selectable display screens. A 10-inch color Head-Up Display is available on higher trims, displaying speed, navigation prompts, and system indicators. The vehicle also supports Digital Key capability, allowing smartphone-based vehicle access.

Charging and connectivity options include a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad and up to seven USB-C ports distributed across all seating rows. Select configurations include two 120-volt power outlets with shared 1500-watt output located in the rear console and cargo area.

Interior Functional Systems and Controls

The interior layout includes three-zone automatic climate control with independent settings for the driver, front passenger, and rear occupants. The system includes rear-seat vents and a separate control panel for second-row passengers. Storage solutions include a soft-touch roll-top center console with a removable tray and a total of 13 cup and bottle holders distributed throughout the cabin.

Seating materials vary by grade, including fabric, SofTex®, and leather-trimmed options. Power-adjustable driver seats include up to 10-way adjustability with lumbar support and memory functions on select trims. Heated and ventilated seating is available for front and second-row outboard seats depending on configuration.

The Smart Key System includes push-button start and remote entry functions. Steering wheel controls integrate audio, phone, driver assistance, and vehicle information functions, allowing access to multiple systems without removing hands from the wheel.

Transmission Systems and Drivetrain Layouts

The transmission options are matched to each powertrain configuration. Gas-powered models use a direct shift 8-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. This system includes a wide range of gear ratios, with a first gear ratio of 5.519 and an eighth gear ratio of 0.673, supporting both acceleration and highway efficiency. The reverse gear ratio is 4.220, and final drive ratios are optimized for front and rear configurations.

Hybrid models use an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. This system provides smooth power delivery and optimized efficiency across varying speeds. The final drive ratio is calibrated differently for front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, with rear motor engagement in AWD configurations.

Hybrid MAX models use a Direct Shift 6-speed automatic transmission. This system includes a first gear ratio of 4.474 and a sixth gear ratio of 0.671. The reverse gear ratio is 3.196. This transmission supports higher torque output and sustained power delivery during acceleration.

Drivetrain layouts include front-wheel drive and Dynamic Torque Control all-wheel drive for gas models. Hybrid models use Electronic On-Demand all-wheel drive, which activates the rear motor as needed. Hybrid MAX models use Full-Time Electronic all-wheel drive, providing continuous torque distribution to all four wheels.

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions Data

Fuel economy varies based on powertrain and drivetrain configuration. Gas models achieve estimated ratings up to 21 miles per gallon in the city, 28 miles per gallon on the highway, and 24 miles per gallon combined for front-wheel-drive configurations. All-wheel-drive gas models show slightly lower combined values due to additional drivetrain load.

Hybrid configurations provide higher efficiency ratings. Front-wheel-drive hybrid models achieve an estimated 37 miles per gallon in the city, 34 miles per gallon on the highway, and 36 miles per gallon combined. All-wheel-drive hybrid models achieve up to 36 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon combined depending on trim.

Hybrid MAX configurations prioritize performance output. These models achieve an estimated 26 miles per gallon in the city, 27 miles per gallon on the highway, and 27 miles per gallon combined. All models are certified to SULEV 30 emissions standards and operate on 87-octane unleaded fuel or higher.

Disclaimer: EPA-estimated 21 city/28 highway/24 combined mpg rating for 2026 Grand Highlander LE FWD, 2026 Grand Highlander XLE FWD and Grand Highlander Limited FWD; EPA-estimated 21 city/27 highway/23 combined mpg rating for 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid LE AWD and 2026 Grand Highlander XLE FWD; EPA-estimated 20 city/26 highway/22 combined mpg rating for 2026 Grand Highlander Limited AWD and 2026 Grand Highlander Platinum AWD; EPA-estimated 37 city/34 highway/36 combined mpg rating for 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid XLE FWD; EPA-estimated 36 city/32 highway/34 combined mpg rating for 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid LE AWD, 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid XLE AWD, 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid Limited AWD and 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid Nightshade Edition; EPA-estimated 26 city/27 highway/27 combined mpg rating for 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX Limited AWD and Hybrid MAX Platinum AWD. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.

Structural Dimensions and Exterior Measurements

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is built on a platform that supports three-row seating and expanded cargo capacity. The wheelbase measures 116.1 inches, supporting interior space distribution across all seating rows. Overall length is 201.4 inches, and overall width is 78.3 inches without mirrors. Height measures 70.1 inches without the antenna and 72.1 inches with the antenna installed. Ground clearance is set at 8.0 inches, supporting moderate off-road capability and improved visibility.

The turning circle diameter is 19.03 feet, allowing controlled maneuverability in urban and parking environments. Steering is handled through an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion system with 2.9 turns lock-to-lock, providing predictable steering response.

Suspension, Braking, and Handling Systems

The suspension system uses an independent MacPherson® strut design in the front and a multi-link design in the rear. Both systems include stabilizer bars to manage body roll and maintain stability during cornering. The front stabilizer bar diameter varies by configuration, with gas models using 27.5 millimeters and hybrid models using 28.6 millimeters. Rear stabilizer bar diameters vary between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations.

Braking performance is supported by ventilated disc brakes at both the front and rear. Front brake rotors measure 13.38 inches, and rear brake rotors measure 13.3 inches. The braking system includes Anti-lock Braking System functionality, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology as part of the integrated safety system.

Interior Space, Seating, and Cargo Capacity

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander provides seating configurations for seven or eight occupants. Interior dimensions are designed to maintain usable space across all rows. Front headroom measures up to 41.5 inches without a panoramic roof and 40 inches with the roof installed. Second-row headroom measures up to 40.2 inches without the panoramic roof and 38.5 inches with it. Third-row headroom measures 37.2 inches.

Legroom measurements include 41.7 inches in the front row, 39.5 inches in the second row, and 33.5 inches in the third row. Shoulder room measures 60.2 inches in the front row, 58.8 inches in the second row, and 57.5 inches in the third row. Hip room measures 56.5 inches in the front row, 57.0 inches in the second row, and 45.7 inches in the third row.

Cargo capacity is segmented based on seating position. With all seats in use, cargo volume measures 20.6 cubic feet. With the third row folded, cargo capacity increases to 57.9 cubic feet. With both rear rows folded, maximum cargo capacity reaches 97.5 cubic feet.

Towing Capacity and Weight Specifications

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander supports varying towing capacities depending on the powertrain. Hybrid configurations support a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Gas and Hybrid MAX configurations support up to 5,000 pounds. Maximum tongue weight is calculated at ten percent of towing capacity, resulting in 350 pounds for hybrid models and 500 pounds for gas and Hybrid MAX models.

Curb weight varies by configuration, ranging from approximately 4,290 pounds for front-wheel-drive gas models to 4,905 pounds for Hybrid MAX all-wheel-drive models. Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings vary across configurations, with values exceeding 6,000 pounds depending on drivetrain and seating configuration.

Fuel tank capacity is 17.83 gallons for gas models and 17.17 gallons for hybrid and Hybrid MAX models. Engine oil specifications include SAE 0W-20 for gas and Hybrid MAX engines and SAE 0W-16 for hybrid engines.

Exterior Lighting and Functional Equipment

Lighting systems include LED headlights, LED taillights, and available LED fog lights. Daytime running lights are included across multiple configurations, with LED versions on higher trims. Exterior features include a height-adjustable power liftgate with jam protection and an available foot-activated function for hands-free operation.

Additional features include heated power outside mirrors with blind-spot indicators and available power-folding functionality. Roof rails, panoramic roof options, and acoustic noise-reducing glass contribute to usability and cabin isolation. Rear privacy glass is standard across all configurations.

Advanced Safety Systems and Driver Assistance

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander includes Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0 across all models. This system integrates multiple driver assistance technologies, including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Proactive Driving Assist.

Additional safety features include eight airbags covering driver, passenger, side, curtain, and knee positions. The Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is standard. Hill Start Assist Control and a Tire Pressure Monitor System with individual tire readouts are included. LATCH anchor systems are installed for child seat compatibility.

Available systems include Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking and a Panoramic View Monitor with a 360-degree overhead view. Traffic Jam Assist and Downhill Assist Control are included on select configurations. These systems work together with the Star Safety System, which includes stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking, and electronic brake-force distribution.

Visit Younger Toyota to Schedule a Test Ride

We invite you to explore the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander in person at Younger Toyota in Hagerstown, MD. Our team can assist you in reviewing the differences between the gas, hybrid, and Hybrid MAX configurations while you evaluate performance output, drivetrain response, and handling characteristics. A scheduled test drive provides the opportunity to operate the transmission systems, assess cabin technology, and review driver assistance features in motion. You can also examine seating configurations, cargo capacity, and interior controls under normal driving conditions. Contact our dealership to arrange a visit and review the technical features of the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander directly.

 

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