2026 Toyota Highlander vs. Grand Highlander: Which Three-Row SUV Fits Your New Brunswick Adventures?

New Brunswick families know the drill: weekend trips to Fredericton, summer drives to Halifax, and loading up for cottage season. The question isn't whether you need three rows—it's which Toyota three-row SUV makes the most sense for how you actually drive.

The 2026 Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander share Toyota's reputation for reliability and thoughtful engineering, but they're built for different priorities. One maximizes fuel efficiency without sacrificing capability. The other prioritizes maximum cargo space and passenger comfort. For families in Moncton weighing cargo capacity against fuel economy, here's how these two SUVs compare.

At a Glance: Highlander vs. Grand Highlander

Cargo Capacity: How Much Space Do You Actually Need?

The Grand Highlander delivers 2,761 litres of maximum cargo space with all seats folded—374 litres more than the Highlander's 2,387 litres. That difference matters when you're loading camping gear for a week at Fundy National Park or hauling sports equipment for a tournament in Fredericton.

Behind the third row, the Grand Highlander accommodates seven carry-on suitcases. The Highlander, while still generous, offers slightly less space in this configuration. Both models feature 60/40 split-folding second-row seats (or captain's chairs on select trims) and fold-flat third-row benches for maximum flexibility.

For families who regularly travel with full passenger loads and still need cargo room, the Grand Highlander's extra space eliminates the roof box for most trips. If your typical drives involve fewer passengers and moderate cargo, the Highlander's capacity handles weekend getaways and grocery runs without issue.

Fuel Economy: The Hybrid Advantage

The 2026 Highlander Hybrid achieves 6.7 L/100 km combined—a strong efficiency figure for a three-row SUV. This hybrid system pairs a 2.5 L four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, delivering 243 system horsepower.

The Grand Highlander Hybrid uses the same powertrain and delivers comparable efficiency for its size. For families making regular trips between Moncton and Halifax (approximately 280 km each way), the Highlander Hybrid's fuel economy translates to fewer fuel stops and lower operating costs over time.

Gas-powered versions of both SUVs use a 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 265 horsepower and up to 309 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. These powertrains prioritize performance and towing capability over maximum efficiency.

Fuel Economy Comparison:

• Highlander Gas: 10.0 L/100 km combined (varies by trim)
• Highlander Hybrid: 6.7 L/100 km combined
• Grand Highlander Gas: 10.0–10.7 L/100 km combined (varies by trim)
• Grand Highlander Hybrid: TBD

Performance and Capability

Both SUVs handle New Brunswick roads confidently, but their powertrains cater to different driving priorities.

Highlander Gas Models:

• 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine
• 265 horsepower, 309 lb-ft torque
• 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) towing capacity
• Eight-speed automatic transmission
• Dynamic Torque All-Wheel-Drive (XLE) or Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD (XSE, Limited, Platinum)

Highlander Hybrid Models:

• 2.5 L four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators
• 243 system horsepower
• 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) towing capacity
• Electronic on-demand AWD with rear-mounted electric motor

Grand Highlander Gas Models:

• 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine
• 265 horsepower, 310 lb-ft torque
• 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) towing capacity
• Eight-speed automatic transmission

Grand Highlander Hybrid Models:

• 2.5 L four-cylinder hybrid system (243 system horsepower, 1,588 kg / 3,500 lbs towing)
• 2.4 L turbocharged Hybrid MAX system (362 system horsepower, 400 lb-ft torque, 2,268 kg / 5,000 lbs towing) on Platinum grade

The Highlander Hybrid's lower towing rating reflects its efficiency-focused design. For families towing boats or trailers regularly, the gas-powered models or the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX offer stronger capability.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Both SUVs feature Toyota Multimedia with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The system's interface prioritizes ease of use through sight, touch, and voice commands.

Highlander Interior Highlights:

• Seven- or eight-passenger configurations
• Soft-padded surfaces throughout
• 60/40 split-folding second row (eight-passenger) or captain's chairs (seven-passenger)
• 60/40 split fold-flat third row
• Available 12.3-inch touchscreen (XSE, Limited, Platinum)
• Available 1,200-watt JBL Audio system with 11 speakers

Grand Highlander Interior Highlights:

• Seven- or eight-passenger configurations
• Adult-sized third-row seating
• Removable centre console/cup holder box (seven-passenger models)
• Smart storage solutions throughout cabin
• Available 12.3-inch touchscreen (Limited, Platinum Hybrid MAX)
• Available 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio system
• Available heated and ventilated second-row seats (Platinum Hybrid MAX)

The Grand Highlander's third row provides noticeably more legroom and headroom for adult passengers—a key advantage for families with teenagers or when carpooling. The Highlander's third row works well for children and shorter trips but may feel tighter for adults on longer drives.

Which SUV Fits Your New Brunswick Lifestyle?

Choose the 2026 Highlander if:

• Fuel efficiency is your top priority
• You primarily use the third row for children
• Most trips involve moderate cargo loads
• You want a more compact footprint for urban driving in Moncton

Choose the 2026 Grand Highlander if:

• Maximum cargo space matters for your lifestyle
• You regularly transport adults in the third row
• You want the most interior room Toyota offers in this segment
• You need the performance of the Hybrid MAX powertrain (Platinum grade)

Both SUVs deliver Toyota's core strengths: reliable engineering, strong safety features, and thoughtful design. The Highlander optimizes efficiency and maneuverability. The Grand Highlander prioritizes space and comfort. Your choice depends on which trade-off aligns with how your family actually uses a three-row SUV.

Compare the Highlander and Grand Highlander at Acadia Toyota

Whether you're planning weekend trips to Fredericton or summer drives to the Maritimes, the right three-row SUV depends on your family's specific needs. Visit Acadia Toyota in Moncton to compare the 2026 Highlander and Grand Highlander side-by-side, explore available trims, and experience both SUVs on New Brunswick roads.