Toyota has unveiled the first images of its upcoming three‑row electric SUV, set to launch on Feb 10. Featuring a massive touchscreen, minimalist cabin and hidden branding, it could replace the Highlander. Discover the details now.
Toyota’s global marketing push has taken a sharp turn toward electrification, as the automaker released the first official images and teaser video of its brand‑new three‑row electric SUV. The worldwide launch event is slated for 10 February, and the design cues already point to a model that could become the next evolution of the Highlander.
First look at the cabin
The interior preview highlights a spacious, light‑filled cockpit. A giant panoramic sunroof stretches across the roof, while a USB‑C charging port is cleverly tucked into the C‑pillar footwell. The driver’s area steals the show with a fully digital instrument cluster paired with a large, tablet‑style infotainment touchscreen positioned centrally on the dashboard.
Key interior features
- Full‑width panoramic glass roof for an open‑air feel.
- Integrated USB‑C port at the C‑pillar for easy device charging.
- 12.3‑inch digital gauge cluster with customizable displays.
- 15.6‑inch high‑resolution touchscreen that supports over‑the‑air updates.
- Minimalist dashboard design that subtly hides the Toyota badge, giving the cabin a sleek, almost Korean‑style aesthetic.
Design clues and lineage
Sharp, triangular side windows appear on the front, matching patent sketches revealed earlier this year. These details reinforce speculation that the vehicle is the production version of the concept‑stage bZ Large SUV, originally teased as the bZ5X. The overall silhouette, from rear lights to body proportions, mirrors the 2021 bZ Large concept, making the identity of the new model almost certain.
What’s in a name?
While Toyota has kept official specifications under wraps, the branding strategy is already evident. The company seems to be moving away from the “bZ” sub‑brand for its flagship electric models, opting instead for a name with strong market recognition. Attaching the well‑known Highlander badge—or a hybrid like “bZ Highlander”—mirrors how Ford leveraged the Mustang name for its Mach‑E, easing consumer acceptance of a new electric offering.
Strategic market positioning
The standard Highlander’s sales have slipped, whereas the larger Grand Highlander continues to perform robustly. By launching an all‑electric version under the Highlander umbrella, Toyota can preserve both line‑ups, catering to traditional SUV buyers while capturing the fast‑growing EV segment.
Regardless of whether the final name settles on bZ5X, Grand Crown, or bZ Highlander, the full reveal at the upcoming event will answer lingering questions. Production for the strategic model is expected to start in the first half of 2026, aligning with Toyota’s roadmap of 15 new electric models.
Stay tuned for the official announcement and be among the first to experience Toyota’s next electric breakthrough.