For the 2026 model year, the Toyota Highlander has taken two different paths depending on the market. In North America, the popular midsize SUV carries over mostly unchanged, with the most notable difference being a sharp price jump following the discontinuation of its base trim level. However, things are more interesting in China, where customers are receiving a series of cabin-focused upgrades designed to modernize the vehicle’s interior and enhance its technology.
The Chinese-spec Highlander is produced by GAC Toyota and is sold alongside the nearly identical Crown Kluger, which comes from FAW Toyota. At first glance, the exterior of the 2026 Highlander looks virtually the same as before, but stepping inside reveals the real improvements. Every trim level now comes equipped with a massive 15.6-inch infotainment screen, which replaces the smaller 10.25- and 12.3-inch displays used in previous versions. This larger screen is paired with a standard 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, while a head-up display remains an optional feature for drivers who want extra convenience.
To make room for the new central display, Toyota redesigned parts of the dashboard, introducing slimmer air vents and eliminating the physical climate control buttons. The system now relies fully on the digital interface. Other notable enhancements include a more powerful 50 kW wireless charging pad that shortens charging times and new upholstery choices for the premium Nappa leather seats. Higher trims benefit from luxury-oriented equipment such as a panoramic glass roof, power-adjustable and heated rear seats, and an 11-speaker JBL premium sound system. As before, buyers can configure their Highlander in either five- or seven-seat layouts, depending on their needs.
Mechanically, the SUV carries over without changes. The standard option remains a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 244 horsepower, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. Those looking for a more efficient setup can opt for the 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain, which delivers a combined 243 horsepower. The hybrid variant is available with either front-wheel drive or Toyota’s E-Four all-wheel-drive system.
The fourth-generation Highlander originally debuted globally in 2019 but only reached Chinese showrooms in 2021. According to GAC Toyota, the next-generation Highlander will feature significant upgrades and is expected to introduce a range-extender option, a powertrain type growing in popularity among Chinese buyers. Meanwhile, in North America, reports suggest that a fully electric Highlander could be launched as early as 2026, though Toyota has yet to make an official announcement. For now, the U.S. lineup continues with the same internal combustion and hybrid offerings, all paired with standard all-wheel drive.
The updated Highlander is already available to order in China, with prices ranging from about $35,000 to $45,700. In contrast, the U.S. version starts at $45,270 and goes up to $54,675, making the Chinese-market model both more advanced inside and more affordable overall.