Why the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Is the Go-To Family SUV for Orangeville Drivers

For families in Orangeville, finding a vehicle that genuinely fits everyone—comfortably—can feel like a tall order. The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander answers that challenge with three rows of adult-sized seating, 2,761 litres of cargo space, and a full suite of safety technologies that come standard across every trim. This isn't a vehicle that asks smaller passengers to squeeze into cramped third-row seats or forces you to choose between people and cargo. It's built to handle real family life, from multi-generational road trips to daily hockey practice runs.

Families shopping for a three-row SUV often face compromises: spacious cargo means tight seating, or comfortable rows mean limited hauling capacity. The Grand Highlander sidesteps that trade-off entirely. With seating configurations that include both 7-passenger and 8-passenger options, plus Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard equipment, it delivers the space, comfort, and protection that Ontario families need in one well-designed package.

At a Glance: 2026 Grand Highlander Family-Focused Features

Three Rows That Actually Fit Adults

The Grand Highlander's third row is where many three-row SUVs fall short—but not this one. Toyota designed each row with adult-sized proportions, so passengers in the back aren't folding their knees to their chests on longer drives. The rear doors open wide to make third-row access straightforward, and the low step-in height helps younger children and older passengers alike.

Both seating configurations serve different family needs. The 8-passenger layout features a second-row bench seat, ideal for families with multiple younger children who need easy access to all three positions. The 7-passenger setup swaps that bench for a pair of captain's chairs with a removable centre console, giving second-row passengers extra comfort and easier walk-through access to the third row.

• 8-passenger configuration: Second-row bench seat for maximum capacity
• 7-passenger configuration: Captain's chairs with removable centre console for comfort and accessibility
• Third-row legroom: Designed for adult proportions, not afterthought seating
• Wide rear doors: Simplified entry and exit for all passengers

Cargo Space That Handles Real Life

Cargo capacity numbers can be abstract until you need to pack for a weekend trip or haul sports equipment. The Grand Highlander delivers 2,761 litres (97.5 cubic feet) of maximum cargo space when both the second and third rows are folded flat. Even with all three rows in use, there's room for seven carry-on suitcases behind the third row—enough for a week-long family vacation without needing a roof box.

Smart storage compartments throughout the cabin provide homes for water bottles, tablets, and the everyday items that tend to clutter family vehicles. Soft-padded surfaces and quality stitching give the interior a refined feel, while practical design choices keep it functional for families who actually use their SUV.

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 Across the Board

Every 2026 Grand Highlander comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of driver-assistance technologies designed to help prevent collisions and reduce driver fatigue. These systems work together to monitor the road ahead, assist with lane-keeping, and provide alerts when potential hazards are detected.

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes:

• Pre-Collision System (PCS): Detects vehicles and pedestrians ahead; can apply brakes if a collision is imminent
• Lane Departure Alert (LDA): Provides visual and audible warnings if the vehicle drifts from its lane
• Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Helps keep the vehicle centred in its lane on highways
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): Maintains a set following distance from the vehicle ahead
• Road Sign Assist (RSA): Displays detected road signs on the multi-information display
• Automatic High Beam (AHB): Automatically switches between high and low beams based on traffic conditions
• Proactive Driving Assist (PDA): Provides gentle braking and steering assistance in certain driving situations

Beyond Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, the Grand Highlander includes 8 airbags, a Blind Spot Monitor System with Safe Exit Assist, parking support brake, and a tire pressure monitoring system with auto location. Higher trims add features like Panoramic View Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with auto braking, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross Traffic Alert.

Powertrain Options for Different Needs

The Grand Highlander lineup offers three powertrains to match different driving priorities. The gas XLE and Limited trims feature a 2.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This setup delivers a 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) towing capacity—enough for a camping trailer or small boat.

For families prioritizing fuel efficiency, the Hybrid XLE and Hybrid Limited models use a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with Toyota's electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT). This hybrid system generates 243 system horsepower and offers a 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) towing capacity, with significantly improved fuel economy ratings: 6.6 L/100 km city, 7.4 L/100 km highway, 7.0 L/100 km combined.

The top-tier Hybrid MAX Platinum model steps up performance with a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering 362 system horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain matches the gas model's 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) towing capacity while maintaining hybrid efficiency: 9.0 L/100 km city, 8.6 L/100 km highway, 8.8 L/100 km combined.

Comparing Grand Highlander Trims

Seating & Configuration

Performance Specs

Premium Features

Wheel & Display Options

What Makes the Grand Highlander Stand Out

Three-row SUVs are common, but few deliver on the promise of comfortable seating for adults in every row. The Grand Highlander's 2,949 mm (116.1 inches) wheelbase creates interior space that translates to real comfort, not just marketing claims. The cabin's design prioritizes visibility with a low hood line and large side windows, making it easier to navigate tight parking lots and monitor traffic at busy intersections.

Standard all-wheel drive across the lineup provides confident handling in Ontario's variable weather conditions, from summer thunderstorms to winter snow. Three drive modes—Sport, Eco, and Normal—let drivers adjust throttle response and transmission behaviour based on road conditions and driving style.

The Grand Highlander's exterior dimensions (5,114 mm length, 1,989 mm width, 1,781 mm height) position it as a full-size SUV without making it cumbersome in everyday driving. Ground clearance sits at 203 mm (8 inches), providing clearance for rougher roads and cottage driveways while keeping the step-in height manageable for all passengers.

Technology That Simplifies Daily Driving

Every Grand Highlander includes Toyota Multimedia, which integrates wirelessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 12.3-inch touchscreen provides clear graphics and responsive controls, while voice commands let drivers manage navigation, music, and phone calls without taking hands off the wheel. The system includes Service Connect, Safety Connect, and Remote Connect with trial subscriptions, plus the ability to add Drive Connect for enhanced navigation features.

The multi-information display varies by trim: XLE models feature a 7-inch screen, while Limited and Platinum trims upgrade to a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Higher trims add features like a head-up display (Platinum only), digital rearview mirror (Platinum only), and additional USB-C charging ports to keep devices powered on longer trips.

Which Grand Highlander Model Is Right for You?

For families on a budget who need maximum seating capacity, the gas XLE 8-passenger model delivers all the core features—Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, Toyota Multimedia, power-adjustable front seats, heated steering wheel, and SofTex upholstery—at the entry price point.

Families who prefer second-row comfort and easier third-row access should consider the Limited trim, which replaces the bench seat with captain's chairs and adds premium features like a panoramic moonroof, 20-inch wheels, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, heated rear seats, and the Panoramic View Monitor. The Limited is available in both gas and hybrid versions.

For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the Hybrid XLE and Hybrid Limited models offer the same spacious interior with improved fuel economy ratings. The Hybrid Limited is available in both 7-passenger and 8-passenger configurations, making it the only trim that offers both seating layouts in hybrid form.

The Hybrid MAX Platinum sits at the top of the lineup with 362 system horsepower, heated and ventilated second-row seats, premium leather with suede accents, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, Front Cross Traffic Alert, and a head-up display. This model suits families who want maximum performance alongside hybrid efficiency, with the added benefit of paddle shifters for more engaged driving.

Your Grand Highlander Awaits at Orangeville Toyota

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander brings together adult-sized three-row seating, substantial cargo capacity, and comprehensive safety features in a package designed for real family use. For Orangeville families navigating school runs, weekend getaways, and multi-generational trips, it delivers the space and capability that daily life demands.

Book your test drive today at Orangeville Toyota to experience how the Grand Highlander handles with a full load of passengers and gear. Our sales team can walk you through each trim's features and help you determine which configuration best suits your family's needs.