Description
SUV
car_truck"If you want a three-row SUV that feels genuinely modern behind the wheel, the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE is one of the standouts," notes one industry reviewer—and this example in 0218 Midnight Black Metallic shows exactly why. With just 3 kilometres on the odometer, this All Wheel Drive Grand Highlander XLE pairs family-focused practicality with a thoroughly current tech suite and a confident, turbocharged driving experience.
Power comes from a 2.4L I-4 DOHC intercooled turbo engine delivering 265 horsepower on regular unleaded fuel, matched to an 8-speed automatic transmission with lock-up and overdrive. Drive Mode Select and Selectable Terrain Modes let you tailor response to conditions, while Automatic full-time AWD and Trailer sway control add composure on wet pavement, gravel, or highway on-ramps.
All-speed ABS, Four channel ABS brakes, Brake assist and Electronic stability control work together with Multi-link rear suspension and gas-pressurized shocks to keep the ride secure and predictable.
Inside, the Grand Highlander XLE focuses on comfort and flexibility. SofTex leatherette front and rear seat upholstery, a SofTex leather steering wheel, and metal-look interior accents create a clean, modern cabin. Both front seats are power-adjustable with 8-way directional controls, including power lumbar for the driver, and they’re heated for colder mornings. A 60-40 folding second-row seat with manual fore/aft and recline, plus a 60-40 folding, manual-reclining third row that folds into the floor, makes it easy to shift from passengers to cargo. With 13 beverage holders, multiple door bins, seatback pockets and a full floor console, everyday storage is well thought out.
Climate comfort is handled by Automatic climate control with Dual-zone front climate control and a rear climate control system with separate controls, supported by rear under seat and headliner/pillar ducts.
A cabin air filter, illuminated entry, full carpet floor covering with carpet mats, vinyl/rubber secondary mats, and a roll-up cargo cover with concealed storage and tie-downs further reinforce long-haul usability.
Technology is where this Grand Highlander XLE really steps up, anchored by a 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen primary display. Seamless smartphone integration is a highlight: wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (enabled through Smart device wireless mirroring and Bluetooth handsfree wireless connectivity) bring your apps, messages, maps and music directly into the centre screen with an interface you already know. Emphasis here is on truly living with your phone in the car—voice assistance, calls, text dictation and podcast or playlist control all run through the system so you can keep your hands on the SofTex leather steering wheel.
The wireless smart device charging pad up front and 7 USB ports ensure phones, tablets and gaming devices stay powered across all three rows.
Audio is delivered through a 6-speaker system with AM/FM/digital/SiriusXM satellite capability (including a 3 month satellite trial subscription), Bluetooth wireless audio streaming, Seek scan, RDS and speed-sensitive volume. Window grid and roof-mount antennas help maintain clear reception. Over the air updates keep the digital experience current, while the Toyota App, Remote Connect w/3-year trial, Smart device remote start, keyfob remote start and Smart Key with push button start connect your vehicle to your smartphone and your daily routine.
A comprehensive driver information centre with a 7.00-inch gauge cluster display, trip computer, exterior temperature display and multiple system warnings (including oil pressure, tire pressure, fluid levels and battery charge) keeps key status indicators easy to read.
HomeLink garage door opener, Retained accessory power and power liftgate with auto-latching trunk/hatch add convenience at the end of the drive.
Safety is fully in line with modern Toyota standards. The Grand Highlander XLE includes Lane Departure Alert w/Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection, Lane Tracing Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Curve Speed Management, Road Sign Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian (Daytime & Low-Light) & Bicycle (Daytime) Detection, Emergency Steering Assist and Vehicle Sway Warning. Safe Exit Assist helps reduce the risk of opening a door into passing traffic, while Rear Seat Reminder prompts you to check the rear seats when exiting.
Eight airbags are on board, including driver and passenger front airbags, seat-mounted side airbags, curtain airbags for all three rows, a driver knee airbag and a front passenger seat cushion airbag.
Manual rear child safety door locks, a Rear camera with washer, Tire specific low air pressure warning, immobilizer, security system and SafetyConnect® (5-year minimum) with vehicle integrated SOS and vehicle tracker provide further peace of mind. Emergency Driving Stop System offers assistance if the driver becomes unresponsive, and Level 2 – partial automation SAE Autonomy features support controlled, hands-on driving assistance on the highway.
Outside, this Grand Highlander XLE carries a confident but understated look. The 0218 Midnight Black Metallic monotone paint is matched to body-coloured bumpers, mirrors, splash guards and door handles, with black bodyside cladding, black wheel arch trim and a black grille underscored by chrome side window trim. LED low and high beam projector headlights with Automatic High Beam, LED brake lights, Daytime running lights, a high mounted centre stop light and turn signals integrated in the door mirrors enhance visibility.
Roof rails expand utility, while 18 x 7.5-inch silver aluminum wheels wrapped in P255/65VR18 all-season tires strike a balance between comfort and control.
Altogether, this 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE AWD in 0218 Midnight Black Metallic delivers a well-judged mix of power, space, advanced active safety and top-tier smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—aimed squarely at drivers who want a three-row SUV that feels as up-to-date as the devices they bring on board.
