2026 Toyota Highlander XSE

Description

A late-winter road, a light mist on the windshield, and six people talking over each other as the highway bends: this is exactly where the 2026 Toyota Highlander XSE AWD feels in its element. Finished in striking 0089 Wind Chill, this three-row SUV blends confident turbocharged power, sophisticated control in changing weather, and a tech-focused cabin that keeps everyone informed, connected, and entertained from the first kilometre to the last. Under the hood, a 2.4L intercooled turbo I-4 engine delivers 264 horsepower while running on regular unleaded, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission featuring Sequential shift control and lock-up for confident passing and smooth highway cruising. Dynamic Torque Control AWD and Multi-Terrain Select, combined with Selectable Terrain Modes and Hill start assist/Hill descent control, help you adapt to wet pavement, gravel, or light trails with reassuring ease.

Sport ride suspension, gas-pressurized shock absorbers, and a multi-link rear suspension contribute to a composed, agile drive that still feels comfortable on long journeys. All-speed ABS with four-channel braking, Electronic stability control, and Trailer sway control further support confidence in demanding driving conditions. The 2026 Highlander XSE’s cabin feels genuinely modern and thoughtfully organized. SofTex cloth and leatherette upholstery, leatherette door inserts, metal-look console and door accents, and a SofTex leatherette gear shifter surround you with durable, upscale materials. Second-row captain’s chairs, a 60/40 folding third-row with manual recline and fold-into-floor function, and a 14-cupholder layout make it easy to convert passenger space into generous cargo room and back again. Heated front seats with 8-way power adjustment for both driver and front passenger (including power lumbar for the driver) simplify finding a comfortable seating position, while the heated SofTex leather steering wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, conversation mirror, and illuminated entry all add day-to-day convenience. Technology is a defining strength in this Highlander XSE, anchored by its 12.3-inch primary touchscreen display and Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen system, enhanced with JBL speakers and a powerful 1200W amplifier.

Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smart device wireless mirroring is at the heart of the in-cabin experience. Wireless Apple CarPlay lets iPhone users bring familiar apps, messages, Apple Maps or third-party navigation, and streaming services directly to the main screen without ever plugging in. Calls, playlists, and directions are handled with ease through steering wheel-mounted controls or simple voice prompts, keeping your focus where it belongs—on the road. Android Auto support is just as seamless and deeply integrated. Android drivers can wirelessly access Google Maps, Waze, podcasts, messaging apps, and more, projected crisply onto the 12.3-inch touchscreen. With Bluetooth handsfree audio streaming and Toyota Assistant voice-activated audio controls, using Android Auto becomes a mostly hands-off experience; spoken commands are interpreted quickly, whether you are searching for a nearby fuel station, adjusting audio, or changing your route.

Clari-Fi digital signal processing works alongside JBL’s 11-speaker system to restore audio detail to compressed music, giving your smartphone streaming a richer, more natural sound—ideal for long commutes or weekend road trips. Beyond phone integration, this Highlander XSE is equipped for modern connectivity and convenience: 5 USB ports, Qi wireless charging for front-row devices, 2 12V power outlets, and Remote Connect with a 3-year trial for selective service internet access. Over the air updates and the Toyota App enable features and services to evolve over time. Drive Connect Destination Assist (paid subscription required) supports turn-by-turn navigation, while Service Connect with up to a 10-year trial and SafetyConnect® (minimum 5-year) add layers of support, including vehicle integrated emergency SOS and vehicle tracking. Comfort and climate control are thoroughly addressed.

Automatic climate control with dual-zone front settings, plus a separate rear climate control system with both under-seat and overhead ducts, helps keep all three rows comfortable. A cabin air filter, rear headliner/pillar vents, and rear climate controls ensure passengers in the second and third rows are not an afterthought. Safety and driver assistance are extensive and carefully integrated. Lane Departure Alert (LDA) w/Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management, Automatic High Beam (AHB), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Vehicle Sway Warning, and Emergency Steering Assist all work in concert to support the driver. The Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Intersection Support and Pedestrian (Daytime & Low-Light) and Bicycle (Daytime) detection provides advanced forward-collision mitigation.

The Level 2 – partial automation SAE autonomy designation reflects the way the Highlander XSE can help manage following distance, lane centering, and speed under driver supervision. Eight airbags—including seat-mounted side airbags, curtain airbags covering all three rows, a driver knee airbag, and a front passenger seat cushion airbag—combine with fully galvanized steel body panels, side impact beams, and a security system with immobilizer to enhance occupant protection. A rearview camera, tire-specific low tire pressure warning, Rear Seat Reminder, multiple fluid and system warnings, and perimeter lighting with remote panic function further reinforce everyday peace of mind. On the exterior, Wind Chill paint on body-coloured bumpers and door handles contrasts with black wheel well trim, black grille, black window trim, and black 20 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in all-season P235/55VR20 BSW tires.

LED low and high beam projector headlights with auto on/off, LED front fog lights, LED brake lights, and a high-mounted centre stop lamp give the Highlander XSE a crisp, upscale lighting signature. Roof rails, front and rear splash guards, a rear lip spoiler, stainless steel single exhaust with chrome finisher, and a power liftgate with proximity cargo access and keyfob control add utility and style. Practical touches round out the ownership experience: power windows with one-touch up/down in both rows, deep-tinted glass, heated windshield wiper park, rear defroster, a roll-up cargo cover, tie-downs, concealed storage, and carpeted plus vinyl/rubber floor mats. The Smart Key system with hands-free access and push button start, keyfob remote start, tailgate integration, HomeLink garage door opener, and retained accessory power streamline your daily routine. With just 3 kilometres on the odometer and the robust suite of Toyota Safety Sense™ technologies and connected services, this new 2026 Toyota Highlander XSE AWD in 0089 Wind Chill is a three-row SUV engineered for families and drivers who expect more from their everyday drive—especially when it comes to seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration at the centre of every journey.