Toyota has made all-wheel drive (AWD) standard across the entire 2026 Highlander lineup. This three-row SUV blends everyday comfort with the ability to handle rougher terrain. The AWD system pairs with a turbocharged engine and an automatic transmission, providing confident performance no matter where you drive. Let’s take a closer look at its drivetrain and powertrain.
All-Wheel Drive With Enhancements
The 2026 Highlander’s AWD system is designed to adjust seamlessly to your driving habits and road conditions. Normal Mode works well for daily trips, while Eco Mode focuses on improving fuel efficiency during longer highway drives. Sport Mode enhances responsiveness for a more engaging feel, and Snow Mode increases stability in slippery conditions. Multi-Terrain Select modes add even more control, including Rock & Dirt for rugged trails and Mud & Sand for softer terrain. Other features include Vehicle Stability Control, standard Trailer Sway Control for safer towing, and Dynamic Torque Vectoring for better handling across varying surfaces.
Other Powertrain Highlights
Under the hood, the 2026 Highlander runs on a 2.4-liter turbocharged I-4 engine that produces 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent through an eight-speed automatic transmission with Direct Shift technology, delivering smooth performance. According to Toyota’s estimates, the Highlander achieves up to 28 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg in city driving. It uses regular-grade gasoline and features the Toyota Direct Ignition system for efficient combustion. When properly outfitted, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Additional engineering highlights include an independent front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension for a balanced ride. The XSE trim features a sport-tuned suspension, while a trailing-wishbone setup adds strength to the chassis. For convenience, an electronic parking brake is built into the system.
For more details about the 2026 Highlander, contact our Toyota dealership. Every model includes AWD as standard, and you can explore trim options like the XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum.
