China's Highlander Features A Larger Display And Fewer Buttons Compared To Yours | Carscoops

      Toyota’s Highlander in China features a larger display, an updated dashboard, and numerous tech enhancements in the cabin.

      In the Chinese market, the Highlander now comes with a standard 15.6-inch infotainment screen.

      The redesign of the dashboard does away with physical climate controls, prioritizing technology instead.

      GAC Toyota has kept the exterior design and mechanical components unchanged.

      While the Toyota Highlander in North America has entered the 2026 model year with minimal changes—principally a significant price increase due to the elimination of the entry-level version—the situation in China presents a different narrative. Buyers there can enjoy a series of interior upgrades that enhance the technological offerings and provide a more contemporary ambiance.

      Larger Displays, Fewer Controls

      The Highlander sold in China is produced by GAC Toyota and is available alongside its nearly identical counterpart, the Crown Kluger from FAW Toyota. Although the external appearance of the 2026 Highlander remains similar to its predecessor at first glance, the real transformations are noticeable upon entering the vehicle. Every trim level now features a considerably larger 15.6-inch infotainment display, which replaces the previous 10.25- and 12.3-inch models. This is complemented by a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with a head-up display available as an optional feature.

      In contrast, the Limited and Platinum trims of the US Highlander include a fully digital cockpit with dual 12.3-inch screens and a 10-inch color head-up display, while other trims are equipped with a smaller 7-inch instrument cluster along with an 8-inch infotainment screen.

      To accommodate the larger display in the Chinese version, Toyota has redesigned the dashboard, incorporating narrower climate vents and eliminating physical climate controls. Additional enhancements include a faster 50 kW wireless charging pad and new color options for the Nappa leather seats. Higher trims offer features like a panoramic sunroof, power-operated and heated rear seats, and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. Buyers can still opt for either a five- or seven-seat configuration.

      No Changes Under the Hood

      As expected, there are no modifications to the mechanical components. The non-hybrid turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 244 hp (182 kW / 248 PS) and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system. The hybrid 2.5-liter powertrain delivers a combined output of 243 hp (181 kW / 246 PS), with options for front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (E-Four) configurations.

      The slightly updated Toyota Highlander is now available for order in China, with prices ranging from ¥249,800 to ¥325,800 ($35,000 to $45,700). For context, the US version starts at $45,270 and can go up to $54,675.

      The Future of the Highlander

      The fourth generation of the Highlander has been in circulation since 2019 but made its debut in China in 2021. GAC Toyota has confirmed that the next generation of this crossover will feature "large-scale updates" along with the addition of a range-extender powertrain option, which is favored by Chinese consumers.

      Regarding North America, reports suggest that a fully electric version of the Toyota Highlander may be available in dealerships by early 2026, although this has not been officially confirmed. Toyota has recently introduced the 2026 model year for the current Highlander lineup, offering traditional internal combustion engine and hybrid options with standard all-wheel drive across all variants.