The 2026 Toyota Highlander gives Dallas-area families a three-row SUV that balances interior space with everyday maneuverability — and this year it comes with a significant upgrade: all-wheel drive is now standard on every trim. Whether you’re managing school runs across South Dallas, commuting from Duncanville, or heading out from Waxahachie for the weekend, the Highlander pairs Toyota’s reputation for durability and strong resale value with the confidence of standard AWD traction.
The 2026 Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains to match how you drive. The turbocharged gas engine prioritizes confident acceleration for freeway merging and higher towing capability, available on the XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. The hybrid pairs a four-cylinder with electric motors for standout efficiency, available on the Hybrid XLE, Hybrid Limited, and Hybrid Platinum. The full specs for each are below.
| Specification | Gas (XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum) | Hybrid (XLE, Limited, Platinum) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid |
| Power | 265 hp / 310 lb-ft | 243 combined hp |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | Electronically Controlled CVT (eCVT) |
| Drivetrain | Standard All-Wheel Drive | Standard All-Wheel Drive |
| Max Towing | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 3,500 lbs |
For 2026, every Highlander comes with standard all-wheel drive — a first for the lineup, replacing the previous front-wheel-drive base configurations. The XLE uses a mechanical AWD system, while the XSE, Limited, and Platinum step up to Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, which can send up to 50% of power to the rear axle and distribute it between the rear wheels for added cornering stability. Both powertrains run on regular unleaded gasoline, keeping fuel costs predictable. The hybrid’s efficiency advantage is clear in the EPA-estimated ratings below.
| Trim | EPA-Estimated City | EPA-Estimated Highway | EPA-Estimated Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas (XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum) | 21 MPG | 28 MPG | 24 MPG |
| Hybrid XLE | 35 MPG | 35 MPG | 35 MPG |
| Hybrid Limited & Platinum | 35 MPG | 34 MPG | 35 MPG |
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
The Highlander seats seven or eight depending on second-row configuration. A second-row bench (eight-passenger) is available on the XLE and Limited; the XSE and Platinum come exclusively with second-row captain’s chairs, seating seven. The third row offers about 28 inches of legroom — well suited to children and teens for carpools and errands.
| Cargo Configuration | Cargo Volume |
|---|---|
| Behind the third row | 16.0 cu ft |
| Third row folded | 48.4 cu ft |
| Second and third rows folded | 84.3 cu ft |
All trims include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and up to five USB charging ports across the first two rows. Screen size, audio, and driver displays scale with trim:
| Feature | XLE & XSE | Limited & Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen | 8-in. Toyota Audio Multimedia | 12.3-in. Toyota Audio Multimedia |
| Audio | Standard audio | 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio |
| Driver Display | 7-in. Multi-Information Display | 12.3-in. digital gauge cluster |
| Head-Up Display | Not available | 10-in. color HUD (Platinum only) |
Every 2026 Highlander includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ standard across the lineup:
Every 2026 Highlander gas trim comes with standard AWD. Starting TSRP by trim:
| Gas Trim | Starting TSRP |
|---|---|
| XLE | $46,270 |
| XSE | $48,340 |
| Limited | $50,725 |
| Platinum | $53,925 |
Hybrid trims (XLE, Limited, and Platinum) start at a TSRP of $49,115. For current pricing on the exact trim, color, and configuration you want, contact our sales team or view our latest new vehicle specials.
TSRP on new inventory covers manufacturer/distributor equipment and logistics fees, all of which are subject to revision. It does not account for taxes, registration, dealer-installed additions, or other local charges. TSRP is not a retail advertisement; actual dealer pricing will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Every new Highlander is backed by a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Hybrid components are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the hybrid battery for 10 years/150,000 miles.
Yes. Every new Highlander includes ToyotaCare, covering factory-scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles, plus 24-hour roadside assistance over the same period.
All trims include Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
To see the 2026 Highlander in person, visit us at 39660 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy, Dallas, TX 75237, or call our sales team at 945-207-3254. Reach out anytime to check which trims and configurations are available now.
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Warranty coverage depends on the specific terms of your vehicle’s warranty agreement. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified legal professional for guidance on your individual situation.
Fuel economy. EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Pricing. TSRP on new inventory covers manufacturer/distributor equipment and logistics fees, all of which are subject to revision. It does not account for taxes, registration, dealer-installed additions, or other local charges. TSRP is not a retail advertisement; actual dealer pricing will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Warranty. This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Warranty coverage depends on the specific terms of your vehicle’s warranty agreement. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified legal professional for guidance on your individual situation.