Avik Roy Chowdhury 2026 Toyota Highlander Review: Midsize Family SUV With Smart Efficiency
A smooth, quiet ride with three rows, good fuel economy, and Toyota reliability—that’s what makes the 2026 Highlander a standout choice for families who want comfort without the size overload. It’s practical, efficient, and ready to serve as a daily driver or weekend getaway partner.
What’s New in the 2026 Highlander?
There are no major updates expected for 2026, since this is the final year of the current fourth-generation model launched in 2020. Toyota is likely saving redesigns and major tech upgrades for the 2027 Highlander iteration. Edmunds confirms that changes will be minor at most this year.
Competitors to Consider
If you’re checking out the Highlander, also look at these similar three-row SUVs:
- Toyota Grand Highlander – Offers more space at a slightly higher price.
- Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade – Known for roomy cabins and upscale interiors.
- Mazda CX‑90 – Sportier and more fun to drive.
–Honda Pilot and Acura MDX – Rugged and reliable alternatives in the segment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Quiet, comfortable ride on city roads and highways.
- Good fuel efficiency for its class, earning average combined mpg in the mid‑20s.
- Excellent outward visibility and refined Toyota safety tech.
Cons:
- Third row is best for kids or occasional use; not ideal for full-size adults.
- Cargo space behind the third row is limited compared to rivals.
- Engine noise becomes noticeable under hard acceleration.
Performance
The Highlander uses a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline‑4 paired with an 8-speed automatic or an optional torque-vectoring AWD system. In tests, it accelerated to 60 mph in about 7.4 seconds and handles confidently with minimal body roll.
Fuel economy is one of its strongest suits. Real-world tests show about 26–27 mpg combined with AWD. For those seeking better economy, the hybrid Highlander returns up to 35 mpg combined.
Comfort & Ride Quality
The ride is plush yet controlled, handling city bumps and highway cruising with ease. Front and second-row seating are spacious and comfortable, with captain’s chairs available for added luxury. Noise levels remain low at highway speeds, though engine sound rises with acceleration.
Interior
The cabin layout is intuitive and user-friendly. Driver visibility is excellent thanks to slim roof pillars. Amenities include a sharp surround‑view camera and camera-based rearview mirror that are especially handy when the cargo area is loaded. Third-row space is cramped and cushion padding thin—best for kids. Taller drivers might wish for more adjustment range in certain trims.
Trim Levels & Pricing
Trim options span from the base LE, through XLE, to the fully loaded Limited and Platinum configurations. Pricing is expected to begin around $42,000, with modest increases for higher trims and AWD — a familiar setup in Toyota’s line.
Conclusion
The 2026 Toyota Highlander is a practical, reliable, and fuel-efficient midsize SUV that checks all the right boxes for many families. It may not lead the segment in third-row space, but it delivers strong comfort, safety features, and daily usability with minimal fuss. If a roomy third row matters more to you, the larger Grand Highlander might be worth the extra investment.
Looking for trustworthy reviews on other models too? Be sure to explore Edmunds’ 2026 Highlander review on Edmunds for full insights and test data.
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