Toyota added a Woodland Edition to the U.S. 2027 Grand Highlander lineup in an October 1 announcement. It combines the 245-hp, 2.5-liter hybrid system with standard AWD, all-terrain tires and 0.5 inch more ground clearance. Toyota expects dealership arrivals later in 2026.
What the Woodland equipment changes
The new grade includes matte-black 18-inch wheels, taller springs, a tow hitch, mud guards and roof crossbars. Inside are seven seats with second-row captain’s chairs, a removable cooler holding six 12-ounce cans, all-weather mats and a divided cargo tray.
Those additions address different parts of a family trip. The cooler provides accessible storage between the second-row seats, while the cargo dividers can help separate smaller items behind them. Buyers should still check whether their own luggage, child seats and roof accessories fit the configuration they plan to order.
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Hybrid efficiency comes with a towing trade-off
Toyota estimates 34 mpg combined for the Woodland AWD. Its conventional Hybrid powertrain is rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds; gas and Hybrid MAX configurations reach 5,000 pounds. These figures make the powertrain choice more consequential than the outdoor styling.
A buyer comparing the Woodland with another Grand Highlander should start with the loaded trailer, passengers and luggage. A standard hitch does not make all versions equally capable of towing. The vehicle’s applicable limits and the trailer’s actual loaded weight need to fit together before selecting a grade.
Starting prices belong to the entry models
Toyota lists starting MSRP of $42,560 for gas LE FWD and $45,910 for Hybrid LE, excluding dealer processing and handling. Neither number is the Woodland’s price. The Hybrid Nightshade and Hybrid MAX Limited leave the 2027 lineup.
For a useful purchase comparison, request an itemized quote for the exact Woodland configuration and another for the alternative grade. Separate the vehicle price, delivery charge, accessories, taxes and registration. A lower entry-model headline price cannot establish the premium for the Woodland package.
The equipment, estimates and lineup changes above come from Toyota’s October announcement, updated October 20. Fuel-economy figures are manufacturer estimates, rather than results of a Navecar road test.
