Which Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid to GetMichael Simari - Car and DriverThe 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid comes in a choice of five trim levels, and we have a suggestion for the one that represents the best deal for most buyers.It's the XLE, which has heated seats, second-row captain's chairs, and an optional panoramic sunroof.The trim provides upgraded comfort, especially in the second row, while staying under $50,000.See Our Comprehensive Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Make-Model PageShop New Cars | Shop Used CarsAdvertisementAdvertisementThe 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is a family-friendly beast, and if you're shopping for one you'll see there are plenty of trim levels, so you can find the right one to help keep your family comfortable during long road trips. If you're feeling overwhelmed with choice, we're here to help you determine which trim makes the most out of your purchase.Grand Highlander XLE.ToyotaWhich Trim Is Best?The XLE trim packs a substantial punch over the base LE, and it's the option we'd suggest if you're looking for comfort and some of the niceties without breaching $50,000. This trim includes a wireless smartphone charging pad, heated leatherette seats, and second-row captain's chairs, which gives the cabin a dramatically elevated feel compared to the LE's cloth interior and second-row bench seat. It can also be had with an optional panoramic sunroof and an app-based keyless entry feature for your smartphone.The XLE, which starts at $47,975, comes standard with front-wheel drive and makes 245 horsepower from a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and two electric motors. It's the only front-wheel drive model, but all-wheel drive can be added for around $1600.What About the Other Trims?Starting at $46,805, the base LE trim will get you from point A to point B, but you'll be missing out on some of the comforts that make long days on the road more bearable. Instead of the captain's chairs, the second row gets a traditional bench seat, which brings total seating capacity to eight. The XLE's captain's chairs only make room for seven, but you can switch back to the bench seat if you're in need of that eighth spot.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Limited and the Nightshade (interior pictured above) add a bit more luxury and style. Both offer 20-inch wheels, heated and cooled leather seats, and fancier styling elements inside and outside the vehicle. The Nightshade starts at $55,285 and offers a darker look with black elements throughout, while the Limited starts at $54,305.If you're looking to trade some fuel economy for power, the Hybrid Max powertrain is probably more your speed, but that'll come with a hefty price tag. The option is only available in the higher-level Limited and Premium trim options, which start at $57,285 and $61,370, respectively. While the beefier option is nice, we think the standard engine is plenty powerful for most circumstances.The same goes for inside the cabin. Unless you have your heart set on cooled seats or ambient lighting, you likely won't know what you're missing between the XLE and more premium trim levels, which is why we recommend the XLE if you're on the hunt for comfort without breaking the bank.➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.Shop New Cars Shop Used CarsYou Might Also LikeGift Guide: Best Ride-On Electric Cars for KidsFuture Cars Worth Waiting For: 2025–2029
