Toyota Grand Highlander vs Subaru Forester Hybrid

Toyota offers a total of four SUVs with three rows of seats, so it might be tough to decide which one is right for you and your family. While the adventurous will likely gravitate to the 4Runner or Sequoia, those who frequent hockey games and the school pick-up line should stick to the Highlander or Grand Highlander. Both are excellent choices, but if you’ve got bigger kids with more gear, then the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander belongs on your shortlist.

The Grand Highlander was introduced for the 2024 model year and enters 2026 unchanged. In addition to good fuel economy and lots of power, it provides plenty of space for cargo and people — even in the third row. However, the exterior styling feels stale and some of the infotainment features require a subscription.

Verdict: Despite a few small foibles, the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is perfect for active families who need a bit of extra space and comfort.

Subaru’s rugged reputation makes it a popular choice among Canadians who regularly conquer challenging conditions. The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester reinforces those advantages. This time around, a new Forester Hybrid model adds efficiency as another plus, along with more power and a few extra features. It’s due to be followed by the smaller Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid in fall 2025.

Verdict: The new Forester Hybrid is a more efficient version of Subaru's rugged and evergreen compact SUV.