Unlock Smarter Choices: Why the 2025 Grand Highlander Offers Unbeatable Value Over Its Pricier, Unchanged 2026 Counterpart!
Grand Highlander: A Popular Family SUV Faces Price Increase in 2026
Since its market introduction in 2023, the Toyota Grand Highlander has quickly cemented its position within Toyota's U.S. lineup. Designed as a spacious, family-oriented three-row SUV, it is strategically placed above the standard Highlander. Manufactured in Indiana and built on the robust TNGA-K platform, this vehicle boasts an expansive interior, a practical third row, and a variety of powertrain options, including two distinct hybrid configurations. Its burgeoning popularity is evidenced by a significant 77% year-over-year sales surge in July 2025, positioning the Grand Highlander as Toyota's second-highest selling SUV, trailing only the RAV4. Yet, for the 2026 model year, Toyota has opted for minimal alterations, save for a comprehensive price escalation across all trims.
The 2026 Model: An Overview of What's (Not) New
The 2026 Grand Highlander maintains the identical aesthetic, functionalities, and powertrain selections as its 2025 equivalent. Prospective buyers can still choose from a 2.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, a 2.5-liter hybrid system, or a potent 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX configuration. All these options are available across the LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims. A new addition is the Nightshade Edition, exclusively offered on Hybrid variants. The vehicle continues to feature Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as a standard inclusion, alongside a 12.3-inch infotainment display and various comfort amenities, depending on the chosen trim. Towing capacities remain consistent, with hybrid models capable of pulling 3,500 pounds and gasoline and Hybrid MAX versions rated for 5,000 pounds. Interior technology, third-row legroom, and cargo capacity are carried over without changes.
Pricing Adjustments for 2026: A Look at the Higher Costs
The sole significant update for the 2026 model year is a uniform price increase of $500 across all trim levels compared to their 2025 counterparts. The base LE FWD model now starts at $41,360, while the Limited Hybrid MAX sees its price climb to $55,190. The fully equipped Platinum Hybrid MAX models can reach up to $59,275. These figures do not account for Toyota's standard $1,495 delivery charge. When compared to rivals such as the Hyundai Palisade and Honda Pilot, which offer comparable dimensions and features at slightly more accessible entry prices, the 2026 Grand Highlander's increased cost may diminish its competitive edge.
Why the Outgoing 2025 Models Present a More Attractive Proposition
Given the minimal changes and the price increase for the 2026 model, a pertinent question arises: why not opt for the 2025 version? Dealerships are actively reducing their existing inventory, and current market listings reveal substantial discounts on many 2025 Grand Highlander units. This is particularly true for XLE models, which are now available at prices thousands below their 2026 equivalents. Online platforms like Cars.com show numerous new 2025 XLEs listed significantly below their Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), ranging from $38,000 to $42,000, contingent on features and geographical location. For what is essentially the same vehicle, consumers can realize considerable savings by securing a 2025 model while supplies last.
The Prudent Choice: Opting for the 2025 Grand Highlander
Unless a specific new color or trim designation is a priority, or there's an imperative for a 2026 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), there is little practical incentive to delay a purchase. With no mechanical enhancements or novel features introduced, the 2025 Grand Highlander retains its status as the more astute investment. This remains true as long as inventory of the 2025 models can be found, offering a compelling blend of value and established capability.