The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander in a Nutshell
Toyota effectively kicked off the crossover revolution of the ’90s with the RAV4, and followed it up with the Harrier, which would eventually become the Lexus RX. Seeing the success of the RX, a more affordable version of it wearing a Toyota badge was added, the model we now know as the Highlander.
Now, the Highlander will transition to an EV for the 2027 model year, but its spirit lives on in the Grand Highlander. The Grand Highlander was introduced in 2023 for the 2024 model year, and it’s effectively a larger version of the non-Grand counterpart. But soon, it’ll be the sole combustion (and hybrid) powered three-row crossover from Toyota. For 2026, there isn’t much to report in terms of changes, but there are a few minor updates.
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Lease Deals for July
The Grand Highlander isn’t exactly the least expensive model to lease among its peers, but July lease deals are reasonably priced. We saw an offer for the XLE AWD at $419 for 36 months, with $4,999 due at signing. Do note that rates vary by state, and there may even be offers for the hybrid version in your area, just like the one we saw last month.
The lease offers include the ToyotaCare two-year service plan, which also includes roadside assistance. Additional savings can be made through special military personnel programs (worth $750) or through programs for recent or soon-to-be college graduates (worth $500). Annual mileage is capped at 10,000 per year, and it’s $0.15 per mile exceeded. This offer is valid until August 3, 2026.
2026 Toyota Highlander Highlights
Base prices for the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander range from $42,260 to $60,175. There are ten trims to choose from, comprising four pure-combustion models and six hybrids. The pure-gas models are LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum, while electrified variants include Hybrid LE, Hybrid XLE, Hybrid Limited, Hybrid Nightshade, Hybrid Max Limited, and Hybrid Max Platinum.
The 2026 Grand Highlander is effectively a carryover model, although there is a nominal price increase. As far as updates are concerned, it’s minor to the point where you blink, and you’ll miss it. The Hybrid Nightshade Edition gets a black badge overlay and, well, that’s it. The crossover did see more updates last year; hence, there’s not much for 2026.
Moving to powertrains, non-electrified models use a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 265 hp, while the hybrids use a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with a single motor, for a combined output of 245 hp. For the Hybrid Max models, it swaps the 2.5-liter for a turbocharged 2.4-liter to boost total output to 362 hp. All-wheel drive is optional on all non-hybrid models and the Hybrid XLE, but standard on the rest.
Toyota
Final Thoughts
As a family vehicle, it’s hard to fault the Grand Highlander. But choosing between it and the standard Highlander is down to exactly what you need. That said, the Grand Highlander’s base price is lower than that of the Highlander, so it’s a plus for those who need a larger three-row crossover. It’s not the most exciting choice of vehicle, but it’s the kind of car that appeals massively to pure logic.
Toyota
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle.
About the author
Anton Andres
News Editor