2026 Toyota Highlander

Overview

The Toyota Highlander practically serves as the default midsize three-row SUV for folks who just want a family hauler that's easy to live with. The current generation debuted for the 2020 model year, and in that time it has served its purpose; this is a spacious, comfortable crossover that delivers everything you'd expect, from a smooth, quiet ride to an intuitively laid-out interior. And if you need a little extra room, Toyota sells the Grand Highlander as well. If you don't want to spend time sorting through the thick field of competitors in this class, it's hard to ignore just how well the Highlander does its job.

Edmunds spotlight: A new Highlander could be coming

Based on Toyota's typical vehicle lifespan, we believe the current Highlander's tenure is nearly up. The 2026 Highlander could even be the final model year of this generation, and any enhancements are likely to be minor as Toyota preps the next iteration of this mega-popular SUV. Expect the new Highlander to sport exterior and cabin designs that line up with newer vehicles in Toyota's lineup. New powertrains are also likely — for example, the current Grand Highlander offers a potent turbocharged hybrid that doesn't appear on the standard Highlander. As for when a redesigned Highlander might appear, we aren't sure at the moment. If Toyota introduces it for the 2027 model year, the automaker will likely announce it at the end of 2025 or in early 2026.

Competitors to consider

This is a segment jam-packed with worthy competition. The Kia Telluride offers more space and a more tech-forward cabin, the Hyundai Palisade is a more luxurious space to sit in, the Mazda CX-90 is sportier and better to drive, and the Honda Pilot is a touch more rugged. There's also the aforementioned Grand Highlander, in case you find the standard model's third row isn't spacious enough. In fact, you might have too many well-regarded options in this space.

We like the current Highlander, but it's getting a little long in the tooth. We're excited to see how Toyota shakes it up for the SUV's next outing.