The 2026 Toyota Highlander arrives as a fully electric SUV, ditching gas and hybrid options. Discover its range, tech and safety features—learn more today!
Toyota has rolled out the fifth‑generation Highlander worldwide, and this time the midsize SUV is available only as a pure electric model. The brand has eliminated gasoline and hybrid variants, positioning the 2026 Highlander as a flagship EV for North American families.
New TNGA‑K Platform
The all‑electric Highlander is built on an upgraded version of Toyota’s TNGA‑K chassis. Engineers have reshaped the underbody to accommodate a large battery pack while preserving a spacious cabin. Extra sound‑absorbing material lines the front and rear doors, B‑pillars, wheel wells, roof, and floor, and acoustic‑glass is fitted to the windshield and front side windows to keep cabin noise to a minimum.
Dimensions and Interior Space
Measuring 5,050 mm long, 1,989 mm wide and 1,709 mm tall with a 3,050 mm wheelbase, the new Highlander offers generous passenger and cargo space. Seats are upholstered in soft‑touch Softex material, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel that doubles as a regenerative‑braking paddle.
Powertrain Options
Two electric powertrains are available:
- Single‑motor Front‑Wheel Drive (FWD): 221 hp and 268 Nm of torque.
- Dual‑motor All‑Wheel Drive (AWD): 338 hp and 438 Nm of torque.
All models feature instant torque delivery and a smooth, quiet driving experience.
Battery Capacity and Range
The base XLE FWD trim comes with a 76.96 kWh battery delivering an estimated 459 km (285 mi) of WLTP range per charge. The XLE AWD model steps up to a 95.82 kWh pack with a claimed 432 km (268 mi) range. Higher‑spec XLE AWD and Limited AWD trims share the larger 95.8 kWh battery, offering up to 512 km (318 mi) on a single charge.
Charging and V2L Capability
Designed for the North American market, the Highlander adopts the NACS (North American Charging Standard) connector. Toyota states the vehicle can charge from 10 % to 80 % in roughly 30 minutes using a DC fast charger, while AC charging supports up to 11 kW. A built‑in Vehicle‑to‑Load (V2L) function lets the SUV power external electric devices, making it handy for camping or outdoor work.
Advanced Safety Suite – Toyota Safety Sense 4.0
The 2026 Highlander is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, which includes:
- Pre‑Collision System with pedestrian detection
- Radar‑based Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane‑Keeping Assist with Steering Assist
- Automatic High‑Beam Headlights
- Lane‑Follow Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Additional active safety features comprise electronic stability control, traction control, brake‑by‑wire, anti‑lock brakes, tire‑pressure monitoring, hill‑start assist, front and rear parking‑assist brakes, a 360 ° surround‑view camera, advanced parking assist, blind‑spot monitoring, and rear cross‑traffic alert.
Infotainment and Interior Technology
Inside, a 14‑inch touchscreen serves as the centerpiece, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus dual‑Bluetooth connectivity for two phones. Sound options range from a standard six‑speaker setup to an 11‑speaker JBL Premium Audio system on higher trims.
A 12.3‑inch digital instrument cluster provides customizable driving data, while a 64‑color ambient interior lighting package is standard. Select models also feature a head‑up display (HUD) projected onto the windshield.
Overall Impression
With its dedicated electric architecture, generous range options, rapid‑charging capability, and a full suite of safety and convenience technologies, the 2026 Toyota Highlander aims to redefine the family SUV segment. It arrives ready to compete with other mainstream electric crossovers while retaining Toyota’s reputation for reliability and practicality.