Toyota has officially unveiled the all-new 2027 Highlander, a major revamp of the popular SUV nameplate. For the first time in its 25-year history, the Highlander has gone fully electric. It also becomes Toyota’s first three-row battery electric vehicle (BEV) in the US and the Highlander, the first BEV to be assembled in the US. The new Highlander will be manufactured at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Kentucky, while the battery modules will be assembled at Toyota’s newly opened battery plant in North Carolina.
All-electric powertrain, range up to 515 km
The 2027 Highlander will be offered in two grades – XLE and Limited. Powertrain options vary depending on drivetrain configuration. The XLE will be available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). FWD versions use a 77.0 kWh battery that provides a manufacturer-estimated 287-mile range.
The AWD variant can be had with either a 77.0 kWh battery (270-mile range) or a larger 95.8 kWh pack offering an estimated range of up to 320 miles. The Limited grade comes standard with AWD and a larger 95.8 kWh battery, which also offers up to 320 miles of range.
In terms of performance, FWD models produce 221 hp and 198 lb-ft of torque. The AWD versions produce a combined 338 hp and 323 lb-ft of torque, giving the new Highlander strong acceleration along with the EV’s distinct low center-of-gravity benefits.
Charging duties are handled through the North American Charging System (NACS) port, which provides access to a wide DC fast charging network in the US. Under ideal conditions, 10-80% charging can be achieved in about 30 minutes. An 11-kilowatt onboard AC charger and dual-voltage cable are standard.
Bigger, wider and more modern
Toyota has redesigned the Highlander from the ground up on a modified TNGA-K platform optimized for higher capacity batteries. This SUV has now become wider and longer in wheelbase. Overall width has increased to 78.3 inches (1989 mm), while the wheelbase has increased to 120.1 inches (3051 mm), significantly improving cabin space. The height has been reduced slightly to 67.3 inches (1710 mm) for a sporty look.
The design adopts Toyota’s latest “Hammerhead” front fascia with slim DRLs, flush door handles, strong fender flares and aerodynamic detailing. Inside, the cabin features a 14-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital driver display, customizable 64-color ambient lighting, and an available panoramic glass roof. Seats up to seven passengers in a three-row layout. With the third row folded flat, cargo space exceeds 45 cubic feet (1274 liters).
Tech-heavy cabin with V2L capacity
The 2027 Highlander is equipped with Toyota audio multimedia with 5G connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and integrated navigation that can display turn-by-turn directions in the digital instrument cluster.
A major addition is vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, which allows the Highlander to power external devices or serve as a backup power source in an emergency (bi-directional accessories required). This is a first for a Toyota model sold in the US.
Safety features include Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, which adds advanced detection hardware and advanced ADAS functionality. Features like Pre-Collision System, Lane Tracing Assist, Proactive Driving Assist and full-speed adaptive cruise control are standard.
Toyota’s fourth BEV in America
The 2027 Highlander joins the Toyota bZ, bZ Woodland, and C-HR as the brand’s fourth BEV in the US market. Toyota says it will soon introduce 22 electrified models globally. Sales of the all-electric Highlander are expected to begin in late 2026, with pricing to be announced closer to launch.
