Toyota Grand Highlander Woodland Edition Adds Capability

Toyota is expanding the Grand Highlander lineup with the new Woodland Edition for the 2027 model year, adding equipment intended to enhance capability and support active lifestyles. The new grade is expected to begin arriving alongside other Grand Highlander trim levels at United States dealerships later in 2026. The Woodland Edition adds a half inch of ground clearance compared with other Grand Highlander models through the use of all-terrain tires and taller springs. It also introduces several exterior, towing, cargo, and interior features designed to give the three-row SUV a more rugged character.

Grand Highlander Woodland Edition Adds Rugged Equipment

The Grand Highlander Hybrid Woodland Edition follows the broader Woodland approach used across other Toyota models, combining rugged design details with enhanced capability and equipment suited to active lifestyles. Its additional half inch of ground clearance comes from all-terrain tires and taller springs, while LED fog lamps, a tow hitch, and mud guards further distinguish the new grade. Inside, the Woodland Edition includes a removable second-row console/cooler, all-weather floor mats, and a cargo tray equipped with pop-up dividers. These additions expand the model's utility without changing the core Grand Highlander platform.

Grand Highlander Powertrain and Drivetrain Options

The Grand Highlander continues to offer three powertrain choices covering gasoline, hybrid, and higher-output hybrid applications. Gas models use a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine producing 265 horsepower, while the 2.5-liter Hybrid produces 245 total system horsepower. The Hybrid MAX powertrain delivers 362 total system horsepower. Depending on the selected grade and powertrain, buyers can choose among Front-Wheel Drive, Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive, electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, and Full-Time Electronic All-Wheel Drive. This range allows the Grand Highlander lineup to address different priorities for performance, efficiency, traction, and capability.

• Gas: 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 265 horsepower.
• Hybrid: 2.5-liter system producing 245 total system horsepower.
• Hybrid MAX: 362 total system horsepower.
• Gas models are available with Front-Wheel Drive or Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive.
• Hybrid models are available with Front-Wheel Drive or electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive.
• Hybrid MAX Platinum uses Full-Time Electronic All-Wheel Drive.

Production Remains Based in Indiana

The Grand Highlander is assembled exclusively at Toyota’s Princeton Plant in Indiana. The production arrangement means the new Woodland Edition joins the existing Grand Highlander lineup within the same U.S. manufacturing footprint. Toyota’s expansion of the lineup for MY 2027 therefore adds a new equipment-focused grade while retaining the established manufacturing location. The Woodland Edition is expected to reach dealerships later in 2026 alongside the other Grand Highlander trim levels, giving customers another configuration focused on capability, utility, and outdoor-oriented equipment.

Industry Impact & Outlook

The Grand Highlander Woodland Edition gives Toyota another way to differentiate its three-row SUV lineup by emphasizing practical capability and active-lifestyle features rather than introducing a new powertrain or vehicle architecture. The combination of added ground clearance, all-terrain tires, towing equipment, and utility-focused cargo and interior features could strengthen the model’s appeal among buyers seeking greater versatility from a family-oriented SUV. The continued availability of gasoline and hybrid powertrains also preserves choice across different usage priorities. The next significant development will be the Woodland Edition’s arrival at U.S. dealerships alongside the other MY 2027 Grand Highlander grades.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Toyota Grand Highlander Woodland Edition add?
The Toyota Grand Highlander Woodland Edition adds half an inch of ground clearance through taller springs and all-terrain tires, along with equipment focused on capability and utility. Its features include LED fog lamps, a tow hitch, mud guards, a removable second-row console/cooler, all-weather floor mats, and a cargo tray with pop-up dividers. The Woodland Edition is planned for the 2027 model year and is expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships later in 2026 alongside other Grand Highlander trim levels.