Toyota reveals the 2027 all‑electric Highlander, a three‑row EV SUV with spacious cabin and AWD. Discover the future of family driving today!
Japanese automaker Toyota has officially confirmed that the next generation Highlander will return – this time as a fully electric, three‑row SUV.
First Look at the 2027 Highlander EV
A teaser released a day before the global launch showed the Highlander badge on the rear, with the letters “BEV” (Battery‑Electric Vehicle) and “AWD” emblazoned below, signalling a dual‑motor all‑wheel‑drive system.
Key Highlights
- All‑electric powertrain with two motors delivering AWD capability.
- Three‑row seating for up to seven passengers, emphasizing interior space and everyday usability.
- Higher positioning than Toyota’s current bZ4X, targeting the premium large‑SUV segment.
- Designed specifically for the North‑American market and expected to be built in the United States.
- Continues the brand’s cautious rollout of EVs in the U.S., focusing on practicality over outright performance.
Why Toyota Revived the Highlander Name
The company has dropped the “bZ” prefix for this model, bringing back a name that already resonates worldwide. Industry peers such as Volkswagen are doing the same—re‑introducing familiar model names like Polo and Tiguan for their upcoming electric versions.
Leveraging an established nameplate helps Toyota generate instant recognition and trust, which can be more effective than launching a brand‑new moniker that lacks any heritage.
What This Means for the EV Landscape
The electric Highlander will be the first three‑row electric SUV offered by Toyota, expanding the limited selection of large family EVs available in the U.S. and Canada. While detailed specifications have not yet been released, analysts expect the focus to be on a roomy cabin, generous cargo capacity, and easy‑to‑use technology rather than on high‑performance metrics.
As the market for big electric SUVs grows, the Highlander EV could become a cornerstone of Toyota’s strategy to gain a foothold in the premium segment without alienating its core customer base.
Looking Ahead
Production is slated to begin at Toyota’s U.S. facilities, with sales targeted for the 2027 model year. The launch will likely influence rival automakers to reconsider how they position their own electric SUVs, especially those that aim to combine family‑friendly space with electric efficiency.
Stay tuned for official performance figures, pricing, and availability as Toyota rolls out more details in the coming months.