Roughly eight months ago, Toyota gathered a select group of journalists at its U.S. headquarters in Plano, Texas, for a confidential preview. What we saw that day was presented as something not yet ready for public discussion. Now, the wraps are officially off. Meet the all-electric 2027 Toyota Highlander.
Not the “Highlander EV” or “Highlander Electric.” Just Highlander.
Toyota describes it as a complete reimagining of the Highlander concept rather than a side model or spin-off. This is not an early preview of a future generation—it is the fifth-generation Highlander, redesigned from the ground up around electric power.
A Fresh Take on the Highlander Formula
According to Chief Designer Masayuki Yamada, the goal was to combine classic SUV strength with the refined, high-tech identity expected from a modern EV.
Toyota focused on delivering strong SUV proportions while integrating aerodynamic efficiency and advanced electric performance. The design balances interior space, capability, and efficiency, positioning the new Highlander for both city driving and outdoor adventures.
Bigger Footprint, Familiar Versatility
Like its predecessor, the 2027 Highlander offers three rows of seating. However, it now rides on a 120-inch wheelbase—longer than even the Grand Highlander. Measuring 198.8 inches in overall length, it nearly matches the Grand Highlander’s exterior dimensions.
Despite the larger footprint, cargo capacity aligns more closely with the standard gasoline Highlander. The reason is simple: battery packaging takes up space that would otherwise be available for storage.
Battery Options and Driving Range
Toyota will offer two battery configurations.
The standard XLE trim features a 77-kWh battery pack, delivering an estimated 287 miles of driving range. Opting for all-wheel drive retains the same battery capacity but reduces range by approximately 17 miles.
For buyers seeking more distance, the XLE AWD and Limited AWD trims can be equipped with a larger 95.8-kWh battery. With this setup, Toyota estimates up to 320 miles of range.
While complete DC fast-charging specifications have not yet been released, Toyota confirmed that the Highlander will include a native NACS charging port. A dual-voltage Level 1 and Level 2 charging cable will come standard, and the onboard AC charger supports Level 2 charging at speeds up to 11 kW.
Interior Technology and Comfort
Inside, the new Highlander maintains a familiar and practical layout.
Standard equipment includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment display. Wireless smartphone charging is also included. On the XLE trim, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel come standard.
Second-row seats feature a one-touch folding function, allowing easier access to the third row. Buyers can choose between captain’s chairs or a bench seat configuration in the second row, depending on preference.
Higher trims add more premium touches, including an 11-speaker JBL sound system, expanded driver assistance features, available 22-inch wheels, and two-tone exterior paint options.
What Happens to the Gas-Powered Highlander?
Toyota continues to sell the traditional gasoline Highlander, but its position has weakened as the larger and more expensive Grand Highlander gains momentum. Since the Grand Highlander already offers hybrid options, Toyota may see less incentive to continue investing in the older internal combustion version of the standard Highlander.
Even if some customers choose competing midsize SUVs instead of moving up to the Grand Highlander, Toyota is likely to recover a portion of that volume with the new electric model.
Platform Flexibility Offers Production Security
The 2027 Highlander rides on Toyota’s TNGA-K architecture. This shared platform provides manufacturing flexibility. If demand fluctuates, Toyota can adjust production capacity across other models built on the same foundation.
While shifting output is not instantaneous due to supply chain complexities, the shared architecture gives Toyota strategic room to adapt if market conditions change.
Production Timeline and Expected Launch
Toyota has not yet announced official pricing. However, the company confirmed that the 2027 Highlander will be manufactured in Kentucky. Although federal EV tax incentives are no longer available in their previous form, domestic production may help reduce exposure to import tariffs.
Production is scheduled to begin later this year, with customer deliveries expected in late 2026 or early 2027. Pricing details will be revealed once Toyota finalizes its production plans.
Faraz Shah Skills ✔ Verified
Faraz Shah Skills is a technology educator and content writer. He shares authentic, detailed insights on news, guides, and trends to help readers make informed decisions with clear and trustworthy information.