The 2027 Toyota Highlander Goes Electric: A New Era for the Iconic SUV
The Toyota Highlander, once a top contender in the crossover SUV market, is undergoing a significant transformation. In response to declining sales, largely due to the popularity of the larger Grand Highlander, Toyota has decided to electrify the Highlander for the 2027 model year.
Initially introduced as a family-friendly crossover in 2000, the Highlander quickly became a favorite among young families, thanks to its unibody platform shared with the Camry. This design offered a more comfortable ride compared to traditional truck-based SUVs. The introduction of a hybrid version further increased its appeal, positioning it as the second hybrid vehicle in Toyota’s lineup after the Prius. Now, the Highlander will transition to an all-electric vehicle (EV), eliminating the internal combustion and hybrid options.
The upcoming Highlander EV will be available in two trims: XLE and Limited, with options for front- or all-wheel drive. The top-tier Limited AWD model boasts an impressive 338 horsepower and a driving range of 320 miles. For those opting for the front-wheel drive version, the power output is 221 hp. Battery options include a 95.8-kWh pack for the front-drive XLE, providing an estimated range of 320 miles, and a 77-kWh battery offering 287 and 270 miles for front- and all-wheel drive models, respectively.
Toyota’s late entry into the battery electric vehicle (BEV) market includes the new Highlander alongside models like the CH-R, BZ, and BZ Woodland. While the Highlander EV is a notable addition, the company continues to offer hybrid and internal combustion options in other models like the Corolla Cross and Grand Highlander.
Designed with a modern touch, the Highlander EV features a more upright and squared-off exterior, giving it the look of a larger SUV. Chief designer Masayuki Yamada emphasized the goal of “creating a new Highlander that pursued the robust proportions of an SUV while capturing the sophisticated, high-tech aspects of all-electric performance.”
The Highlander EV is built on Toyota’s TNGA-K architecture, shared with models such as the Camry and Sienna. The redesigned vehicle is lower, wider, and longer, with a three-row seating configuration, making it Toyota’s first three-row BEV in the U.S. Interior features include a 14.3-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch driver’s display, dual Qi charging pads, and USB chargers throughout. Buyers can customize the ambiance with 64 color options.
Manufactured in the U.S. at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, with battery modules assembled in North Carolina, the Highlander EV will not be subject to tariffs. Additionally, the vehicle offers a Bi-Directional Accessories option for powering external devices, such as a household fridge during power outages.
As Toyota plans to let consumer demand dictate the production of its electric vehicles, the pricing details for the Highlander EV will be announced closer to its release date in late 2026.
Original Story at www.autoweek.com