2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

Not long ago, the Toyota Highlander was one of the best three-row SUVs on the market, ideal for active, growing families with its roomy interior and impressive fuel economy. But size creep is a thing, and today's Highlander is no longer the spacious hauler it once seemed. Enter the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid. Introduced two years ago, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is longer and has more third-row legroom and cargo space than the less-grand model. Impressively, the hybrid also gets up to an EPA-estimated 36 mpg. That's great for a three-row SUV and a big improvement on the regular Grand Highlander's 24 mpg.

Midsize three-row hybrid SUVs remain fairly rare, but the Mazda CX-90 is one alternative. It's not as roomy as the Toyota and has less cargo space, but precise steering and handling make it more fun to drive. There's also a plug-in hybrid version that offers 25 miles of electric range. The Hyundai Palisade hybrid is a newer entry that costs about the same as the Toyota and merits serious consideration.

The Grand Highlander Hybrid (along with the regular Grand Highlander) split the difference between the standard-issue Highlander and the larger Sequoia in Toyota's lineup. If you want an adult-friendly third row and extra cargo space but don't need the heavier, thirstier Sequoia, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is just right. It's also worth knowing that Toyota offers two powertrain options. The base hybrid gets up to 36 mpg combined but can feel slow when you're getting onto the highway or trying to pass a slow-moving truck. That's what the more powerful Hybrid Max powertrain is for. It is noticeably quicker and can tow a 5,000-pound load (the standard powertrain tops out at 3,500 pounds) and still returns up to 27 mpg combined.