2026 Toyota Highlander: Gas vs. Hybrid Buyer's Guide for Gatineau Families

November 19 2025,

Families across Quebec need a vehicle that handles school runs, weekend getaways to the Laurentians, and everything in between. The 2026 Toyota Highlander lineup delivers that versatility with both gas and hybrid-electric powertrains to match different driving styles and priorities. Understanding the differences between these two powertrains helps you choose the right fit for navigating Gatineau's urban streets or heading to Mont-Tremblant for a ski weekend.

Both the Highlander and Highlander Hybrid share three-row comfort, advanced safety technology, and proven reliability. The key decision comes down to how you drive, your travel patterns, and what matters most in your daily routine.

At a Glance: Highlander vs. Highlander Hybrid

Feature	Highlander (Gas)	Highlander Hybrid
Engine	2.4 L turbocharged 4-cylinder	2.5 L 4-cylinder + electric motors
Power Output	265 hp, 309 lb-ft torque	243 system hp
Fuel Economy	Standard efficiency	6.7 L/100 km (combined)
Towing Capacity	2,268 kg (5,000 lbs)	1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)
AWD System	Dynamic Torque AWD or Vectoring AWD	Electronic on-demand AWD
Available Trims	XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum	XLE, Limited, Platinum
Seating Options	7 or 8 passengers	7 or 8 passengers

Performance and Efficiency: Power vs. Economy

The gas-powered Highlander uses a 2.4 L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers 265 hp and 309 lb-ft of torque, providing strong acceleration for highway merging and confident passing power. The turbo design includes stop-start technology to reduce fuel consumption during city driving.

The Highlander Hybrid takes a different approach with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system. A 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine works alongside two electric motor-generators and a continuously variable transmission to produce 243 system hp. The hybrid's peak power is lower on paper, but the electric motors deliver instant torque from a standstill, making the hybrid feel responsive in everyday driving situations.

Fuel efficiency is the hybrid's standout advantage. The Highlander Hybrid achieves 6.7 L/100 km in combined city and highway driving, making it one of the most efficient three-row SUVs available. For families covering significant kilometres each year—commuting between Gatineau and Ottawa or taking frequent trips to Montreal—the hybrid's fuel savings add up quickly.

Key Performance Highlights

Gas Highlander: Higher towing capacity (2,268 kg/5,000 lbs) for boats, trailers, or campers
Hybrid Highlander: Superior fuel economy (6.7 L/100 km combined) for lower operating costs
Both models: Smooth power delivery suitable for highway cruising and city driving

All-Wheel-Drive Systems: Traction for Quebec Roads

All-wheel drive is standard across the Highlander lineup, but the systems differ between gas and hybrid models.

Gas Highlander models use mechanical AWD systems. The XLE trim features Toyota's Dynamic Torque All-Wheel-Drive, which can send up to 50% of engine power to the rear wheels when needed. The XSE, Limited, and Platinum trims upgrade to Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Drive Mode Select and Driveline Disconnect. This advanced system can vary power distribution between the left and right rear wheels for better cornering stability, and it can fully disconnect the rear driveline during highway cruising to improve fuel economy.

Highlander Hybrid models use an electronic on-demand AWD system. A separate electric motor mounted at the rear axle powers the back wheels independently of the front. This setup activates automatically when sensors detect wheel slip, providing smooth and precise traction control. The system is particularly effective in snow and rain, responding faster than mechanical AWD systems.

Both AWD configurations handle Quebec's winter conditions confidently when paired with proper winter tyres. The gas models offer more driver control through selectable drive modes, while the hybrid's electronic system operates seamlessly in the background without requiring driver input.

Interior Space and Versatility: Room for Growing Families

Both Highlander variants offer seven- or eight-passenger seating configurations. Eight-passenger models feature a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat that accommodates three people across. Seven-passenger models replace the bench with a pair of captain's chairs, creating easier third-row access and a more premium feel.

The cabin design prioritizes comfort with soft, padded surfaces throughout. All three rows offer genuine usability—even adults can sit comfortably in the third row for short to medium trips. When cargo space is needed, the second and third rows fold to create a flat load floor.

Climate control varies by trim. Base XLE models include dual-zone automatic climate control, while XLE Hybrid and higher trims upgrade to three-zone independent systems. This allows second-row passengers to set their own temperature preferences, reducing conflicts on long drives.

Storage solutions include multiple cupholders, door pockets, and a centre console large enough for tablets or small bags. Higher trims add features like a 120-volt power outlet (gas models) or dual 110-volt, 1,500-watt high-output outlets (hybrid Limited and Platinum), making it easy to charge devices or power small appliances during road trips.

Technology and Connectivity: Staying Connected on the Road

Every Highlander includes the Toyota Multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The base XLE models feature an 8-inch touchscreen with six speakers, while higher trims upgrade to a 12.3-inch display.

The XSE, Limited, and Platinum trims add Drive Connect services, which provide real-time traffic updates, weather forecasts, and points of interest. Limited and Platinum models also include a premium 1,200-watt JBL Audio surround sound system with Clari-Fi technology and 11 speakers, delivering concert-quality audio for music lovers.

The Platinum grade introduces a head-up display that projects key driving information onto the windshield, allowing drivers to monitor speed and navigation without looking down. A digital rearview mirror is also included, using a rear-mounted camera to provide an unobstructed view even when the cargo area is fully loaded.

Advanced safety features are standard across all trims through Toyota Safety Sense. This suite includes Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Alert with steering assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Automatic High Beams. These technologies work together to reduce driver fatigue on long highway stretches and provide extra awareness in busy urban environments.

Trim-by-Trim Breakdown: Finding Your Best Fit

Gas Highlander Models

XLE AWD (8-passenger): The entry point offers 18-inch alloy wheels, silver roof rails, LED fog lamps, dual-zone climate control, and Toyota Multimedia with an 8-inch screen. This trim provides solid value for families prioritizing space and functionality over premium features.

XSE AWD (7-passenger): Adds a sportier character with black 20-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, dual-tip exhaust, and smoked lamp surrounds. Inside, captain's chairs replace the bench seat, and the audio system upgrades to the 1,200-watt JBL setup. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and larger 12.3-inch touchscreen enhance the modern feel.

Limited AWD (8-passenger): Focuses on luxury and technology. Leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with memory, a panoramic moonroof, and premium LED headlamps create an upscale environment. The Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD system and Intelligent Clearance Sonar add confidence in tight parking situations.

Platinum AWD (7-passenger): The top gas model includes heated captain's chairs, a digital rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, head-up display, Panoramic View Monitor, and unique 20-inch wheels with Platinum-specific styling details.

Highlander Hybrid Models

Hybrid XLE AWD (8-passenger): Introduces hybrid efficiency with 18-inch wheels, chrome roof rails, three-zone climate control, LED fog lamps, and electronic parking brake. The 8-inch touchscreen includes Service Connect, Safety Connect, and Remote Connect services.

Hybrid Limited AWD (7-passenger): Builds on the XLE with leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Drive Connect, 20-inch wheels, JBL audio, panoramic moonroof, and dual high-output power outlets (110-volt, 1,500-watt each). Captain's chairs provide second-row comfort.

Hybrid Platinum AWD (7-passenger): The flagship hybrid adds heated second-row seats, digital rearview mirror, Bird's Eye View monitor, rain-sensing wipers, head-up display, and exclusive Platinum design elements inside and out.

Comparing the Highlander Trims

Feature	XLE	XSE	Limited	Platinum
Seating	8 passengers	7 passengers	8 (gas) / 7 (hybrid)	7 passengers
Touchscreen	8-inch	12.3-inch	12.3-inch	12.3-inch
Audio	6 speakers	JBL 11-speaker	JBL 11-speaker	JBL 11-speaker
Wheels	18-inch	20-inch (black)	20-inch	20-inch (unique)
Key Extras	Base features	Sport styling, digital cluster	Leather, moonroof, ventilated seats	Head-up display, heated rear seats

Which Highlander Is Right for You?

Choosing between the gas and hybrid Highlander depends on your driving patterns and priorities.

Choose the gas Highlander if:

You need maximum towing capacity (2,268 kg/5,000 lbs) for trailers, boats, or campers
You prefer the XSE trim's sport-focused styling and handling
You drive shorter distances with less emphasis on fuel economy
You want the widest range of trim options

Choose the Highlander Hybrid if:

You cover high annual mileage and want to minimize fuel costs
You prioritize environmental efficiency without sacrificing space or capability
You appreciate the smooth, quiet operation of hybrid powertrains
You need moderate towing capacity (1,588 kg/3,500 lbs) for smaller trailers

Both powertrains deliver the reliability, safety, and versatility that make the Highlander a trusted choice for families in Quebec. The gas model offers stronger towing and more performance-oriented options, while the hybrid provides significant fuel savings and effortless AWD traction.

Explore the 2026 Highlander at Toyota Gatineau

The 2026 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid are available now at Toyota Gatineau. Visit our showroom to compare both powertrains, explore trim levels, and find the configuration that fits your family's needs. Our team can answer your questions about financing, features, and how these SUVs perform in real-world Quebec driving conditions.