2026 Toyota Grand Highlander

2026 Toyota Grand Highlander in Lakewood, NY

When the standard Highlander isn't quite big enough but a full-size SUV feels like more than you need, the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander hits a meaningful sweet spot. Introduced in 2024 and continuing to earn praise from drivers and automotive reviewers alike, the Grand Highlander is 6.5 inches longer, 2.3 inches wider, and 2 inches taller than the standard Highlander — differences that translate directly into a genuinely usable third row and a cargo area that accommodates real family loads. For Lakewood families who want a three-row SUV that doesn't ask passengers to fold themselves into the back seat, the Grand Highlander makes a strong case.

Interior Features That Give Every Row Room to Breathe

The Grand Highlander's interior sets itself apart with third-row seating that accommodates adults rather than just children — a meaningful distinction for families who regularly carry a full passenger load. Cargo volume behind the third row is generous for the class, and with rear seats folded, the total available space reaches up to 97.5 cubic feet. A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provides the technology foundation, while seven standard USB-C charging ports keep every passenger's devices powered throughout the drive. An available hands-free power liftgate simplifies loading when arms are full, and available ambient interior lighting adds a premium atmosphere to longer evening drives. The standard power liftgate and available panoramic roof with power sunshade further elevate the daily driving experience across trim levels.

Exterior Features With a Commanding, Modern Presence

The Grand Highlander's exterior carries a bold, contemporary design anchored by a distinctive hammerhead-shaped nose, broad front fenders, black side rockers, and a flat roofline finished with a rear spoiler. Wide-set taillights and flared rear arches give it a confident, planted stance from the back as well. Standard 18-inch wheels on the base trim provide a composed, road-ready appearance, while available 20-inch two-tone wheels on higher trims sharpen the athletic profile. The Nightshade grade adds blacked-out front bumper trim, roof rails, mirror caps, door handles, and shark-fin antenna for buyers who want a more aggressive exterior statement. All-LED exterior lighting is standard across the lineup.

Performance Features That Deliver Confidence in Every Condition

The base Grand Highlander runs a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive, the standard powertrain handles highway cruising, family loading, and occasional towing with relaxed confidence. A Drive Mode selector with Sport, Eco, and Normal settings — plus a Snow mode on AWD models — adapts the Grand Highlander's behavior to road conditions. Towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds on properly equipped models, supporting boats, camper trailers, and utility loads when weekend adventures call for extra equipment. The ride quality is notably smooth for a vehicle of this size, absorbing road imperfections without the bounciness that larger body-on-frame SUVs can produce.

Safety Features That Protect Every Passenger in Every Row

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 comes standard on every 2026 Grand Highlander, providing Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Road Sign Assist, and Automatic High Beams. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert adds spatial awareness during lane changes and reversing. Front and rear parking assist with automatic braking is standard on the Limited and above, helping in tight parking situations. A standard backup camera activates in reverse, and Toyota's Star Safety System provides stability and braking management that keeps the Grand Highlander composed across the varied driving conditions Lakewood drivers encounter year-round.

Think Bigger — The Grand Highlander Is Worth a Test Drive

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander brings genuine three-row practicality, a turbocharged powertrain, a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 to Lakewood families who need more room without going full-size. It's a thoughtfully scaled vehicle that earns consistent praise from the people who drive it every day. Stop into LUV Toyota and take one for a drive — the extra space becomes obvious the moment you sit down.