The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander facelift brings subtle yet meaningful refinements to this popular three-row midsize SUV, enhancing its family-hauling versatility with a freshened exterior and more modern interior touches. Introduced in 2024 as a larger alternative to the standard Highlander, the Grand Highlander has quickly become a hit for its spacious cabin and hybrid efficiency, and this mid-cycle update previewed in digital renderings keeps it competitive without a full redesign. Expect a bolder front end, upgraded digital cockpit, and the same reliable powertrains, all starting around $44,000, making it a smart evolution for buyers eyeing value-packed adventure machines.
Striking Exterior Design
The 2026 Grand Highlander facelift sharpens its athletic profile with a redesigned front fascia that draws inspiration from Toyota’s latest SUV lineup, giving it a more upright and commanding presence on the road. The signature hammerhead grille grows slightly larger and more prominent, framed by slimmer C-shaped LED daytime running lights that wrap around slim projector headlights for a high-tech glare.
- New side intakes integrate LED fog lights, adding functional style while improving airflow to the brakes, and the overall bumper gets a more sculpted lower edge for better aerodynamics.
- Fresh wheel designs, including 20-inch alloys on Limited trims with glossy black finishes, pair with new color options like WaveMaker Blue or a two-tone Underground with black roof for personalized flair.
Measuring about 201 inches long with 8.0 inches of ground clearance, the body maintains its boxy, roomy silhouette but gains subtle character lines along the doors for a sleeker flow. At the rear, redesigned taillights connect via a full-width LED bar, and the available power liftgate now includes hands-free operation as standard on higher trims. These changes keep the Grand Highlander looking rugged yet refined, perfect for soccer fields or scenic drives.
Interior Craftsmanship and Comfort
Inside, the 2026 Grand Highlander facelift transforms the cabin into an even more inviting command center, with updates focused on digital integration and family-friendly tweaks that boost usability without overhauling the layout. The dashboard adopts a cleaner, more horizontal theme with softer-touch materials extending to the lower doors, while available semi-aniline leather on Platinum trims adds a luxurious sheen to the power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated seats.
- The second-row captain’s chairs (standard on Limited and above) now slide further for up to 40 inches of third-row legroom, and the 60/40 split-folding benches expand cargo from 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row to a massive 97.5 cubic feet—ideal for hauling sports gear or vacation luggage.
- Ambient LED lighting with 10 color options sets a customizable mood, complemented by an available panoramic moonroof that lets in views for all eight passengers.
Noise insulation improves with added acoustic glass, creating a quieter haven for long trips, and thoughtful storage like under-floor bins keeps snacks and toys organized. It’s a space that feels premium and practical, elevating family time without the premium price.
Advanced Technology and Connectivity
The facelift shines brightest in tech, with a larger 14-inch touchscreen now standard across all trims, running Toyota’s updated Audio Multimedia system for wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and cloud-based navigation with real-time traffic rerouting. A matching 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster offers customizable views, from hybrid efficiency readouts to off-road cameras.
- Over-the-air updates keep everything current, while the available JBL 11-speaker premium audio system delivers immersive sound, syncing perfectly with voice commands for hands-free calls or climate adjustments.
- Connected services expand with standard Safety Connect for emergency response and Drive Connect for cloud features, plus a new head-up display that projects speed and nav cues onto the windshield.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 remains comprehensive, adding intersection support for pedestrian detection and enhanced lane tracing assist. Rear-seat entertainment screens are optional on Platinum, with HDMI inputs for movies on the go. This suite makes the Grand Highlander smarter and safer, turning drives into connected, stress-free experiences.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Powertrains carry over unchanged for 2026, ensuring the Grand Highlander’s blend of muscle and mileage stays reliable, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available for better traction. The base 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder pumps out 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic, towing up to 5,000 pounds and earning 21/28 mpg city/highway.
Hybrid fans will love the standard 2.5-liter setup with electric motors for 245 total horsepower and 36/32 mpg, while the Hybrid MAX variant steps up to 362 horsepower for quicker 0-60 mph sprints in about 6 seconds.
- Multi-terrain select and downhill assist on AWD models handle light off-road duties, with the suspension tuned for a smooth ride over potholes or highways.
- Regenerative braking on hybrids maximizes efficiency, and drive modes like Eco or Sport let you tailor responses for fuel savings or spirited overtakes.
Whether loaded with passengers or pulling a trailer, the Grand Highlander feels composed and capable, proving its facelift enhances without disrupting the proven formula.
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander facelift delivers a polished first look at thoughtful updates that refine its role as the go-to three-row SUV for growing families, with a restyled exterior that commands attention and interior enhancements that prioritize comfort and connectivity. By evolving its digital cockpit and subtle styling cues while retaining efficient powertrains and spacious versatility, Toyota keeps this model fresh and family-focused at starting prices around $44,000. It’s a smart step forward, blending reliability with modern appeal to ensure the Grand Highlander remains a top pick for everyday escapes and epic road trips alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key exterior changes in the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander facelift?
The front fascia gets a bolder hammerhead grille, slimmer C-shaped LED DRLs, and integrated fog light intakes, with redesigned rear taillights and new wheel designs for a more athletic, upscale look.
How does the interior update improve the 2026 Grand Highlander?
Updates include a standard 14-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital cluster, enhanced ambient lighting, and improved second-row sliding for better third-row access, boosting tech and comfort for eight passengers.
What powertrains are available on the 2026 Grand Highlander?
Options include a 2.4L turbo (265 hp, 21/28 mpg), standard hybrid (245 hp, 36/32 mpg), and Hybrid MAX (362 hp), all with available AWD and up to 5,000-pound towing capacity.
What’s the starting price for the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander facelift?
Base XLE models start at about $44,130 for the turbo engine, with hybrids adding around $3,000 and top Platinum trims reaching $59,000, offering strong value for three-row space.
Does the 2026 facelift add new safety features?
It builds on Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 with intersection pedestrian detection, enhanced lane tracing, and standard hands-free liftgate, plus optional rear entertainment for family safety and fun.
