2027 Toyota Highlander EV revealed: three row electric SUV with up to 320 miles of range
Toyota has taken one of its most familiar family names and changed the formula completely. The 2027 Highlander is no longer a hybrid or petrol SUV. It becomes a full battery electric three row family vehicle. This is not a facelift. It is a complete rethink of what the Highlander stands for.
The new model moves into a fast growing space. There are plenty of electric crossovers, but not many mainstream three row EVs for families. Toyota clearly wants a share of that market.
Electric powertrain, battery, and range
The 2027 Highlander uses Toyota’s latest electric platform. It shares components with other recent Toyota EVs.
There are two battery options and two drive layouts.
Battery and range options
| Battery | Drivetrain | Power | Estimated range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 77 kWh | FWD | 221 hp | Up to 287 miles |
| 77 kWh | AWD | 338 hp | Up to 270 miles |
| 95.6 kWh | AWD | 338 hp | Up to 320 miles |
Toyota claims a 0 to 60 mph time of about 5.7 seconds for the AWD version.
Charging and power features:
NACS charging port for access to Tesla Superchargers
10 to 80 percent charge in about 30 minutes
Vehicle to load capability
Up to 1,500 watt power outlet in the rear
With the right accessories, the SUV can even supply power to a home during a blackout.
All new design with Toyota’s hammerhead face
The 2027 Highlander looks very different from the outgoing model. Toyota uses its new hammerhead front design with slim LED daytime running lights and separate main headlamp units placed lower in the bumper.
The design is smoother and more upscale than before. Some observers say it now looks closer to a Lexus product, especially from the front. That is likely intentional. Toyota wants this Highlander to feel more premium than the old one.
Key exterior highlights:
New hammerhead style front end
Full width rear LED light bar
Hidden rear wiper under the spoiler
Recessed electronic door handles
Standard roof rails
Tow hitch rated at about 3,500 lb
Toyota offers two trims at launch:
XLE
Limited
Both look similar from the outside. The main visual difference comes from the wheels.
| Trim | Wheel size |
|---|---|
| XLE | 19 inch aerodynamic wheels |
| Limited | Up to 22 inch wheels |
The larger wheels look more aggressive, but they slightly reduce range.
Charging port and platform notes
The charging port sits on the front right side. This location works well with many fast chargers, especially Tesla Superchargers.
Toyota chose not to include a front trunk. The company says it used the space for mechanical components and underfloor storage instead.
New dashboard with bigger screens
The cabin design is completely new. Toyota uses a layered dashboard with a cleaner and more premium look.
Key interior features:
12.3 inch digital driver display
14 inch central touchscreen
Latest Toyota multimedia system
Toyota Safety Sense 4.0
Dual wireless charging pads
Physical climate control buttons
Heated front seats standard
Ventilated seats available
Heads up display on Limited trim
Storage is a strong point:
Large open storage area under the center console
Deep cup holders
Tiered center armrest storage
Traditional glove box
Toyota also offers different interior colors and patterns, especially on the Limited trim.
Three row cabin with more usable space
Toyota stretched the wheelbase compared with the old Highlander. That helps with rear passenger room.
Second row
Available captain’s chairs or bench seat
Sliding and reclining seats
Heated seats available
Third zone climate control
USB C charging ports
Third row
Bench style seating
Cup holders and USB C ports
Improved legroom due to longer wheelbase
Reclining seatbacks
Adults can fit in the third row for shorter trips. Headroom may feel tight for very tall passengers, but space is better than before.
A large fixed panoramic glass roof runs over the first and second rows, making the cabin feel more open.
Boot space and practicality
Toyota keeps the Highlander’s practical side intact. It is still a family mover first.
Cargo figures:
15.9 cubic feet behind the third row
45.6 cubic feet with the third row folded
Other practical touches:
Hidden storage under the floor
Charging cable storage area
Hands free power tailgate
Rear 120 volt outlet
There is no front trunk, even though some space exists under the hood.
Expected rivals and launch timing
The new Highlander EV enters a small but growing segment.
Main expected competitors:
Kia EV9
Hyundai Ioniq 9
Toyota plans to start production near the end of 2026. Showroom availability could begin in late 2026 or early 2027 depending on the market.
Pricing has not been announced yet.
Big shift for the Highlander name
For years, the Highlander was known for hybrid efficiency and reliability. Now it moves fully into the electric era.
This change reflects the wider shift in the market. Families want electric options, and the three row segment still has limited choices. Toyota wants to be part of that conversation.
The final verdict will depend on two things:
Real world range and driving experience
Pricing against rivals
If Toyota gets both right, the 2027 Highlander EV could become one of the most important family electric SUVs on sale.
Sources and References
The information in this article is based on official reveal details and on-site presentations from Toyota, along with trusted automotive coverage of the global debut.
- Toyota official reveal: Elevated Style Meets Modern Power in the Next Generation 2027 Toyota Highlander
- Toyota Global newsroom and product communications
https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/
2027 Toyota Highlander EV FAQs
Is the 2027 Toyota Highlander fully electric?
Yes. The 2027 Highlander becomes a battery electric three row SUV. It no longer uses a petrol or hybrid powertrain.
What trims are available on the new Highlander EV?
Toyota will offer the 2027 Highlander EV in two main trims at launch: XLE and Limited.
What is the range of the 2027 Toyota Highlander EV?
The larger 95.6 kWh battery is expected to deliver up to about 320 miles of range. The smaller 77 kWh battery offers around 287 miles with front wheel drive and about 270 miles with all wheel drive.
How much power does the Highlander EV produce?
The front wheel drive version produces about 221 horsepower. The all wheel drive version delivers around 338 horsepower and can reach 0 to 60 mph in about 5.7 seconds.
Does the new Highlander EV support fast charging?
Yes. It uses a NACS charging port, which gives access to Tesla Superchargers. Toyota claims a 10 to 80 percent charge in roughly 30 minutes under ideal conditions.
Can the Highlander EV power appliances or a home?
Yes. The SUV supports vehicle to load functions and includes a rear power outlet. With the right accessories, it can supply power to appliances or even a home during a blackout.
How much cargo space does the 2027 Highlander EV offer?
There is about 15.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row. Folding the third row increases cargo space to around 45.6 cubic feet.
Does the Highlander EV have a front trunk?
No. Toyota did not include a front trunk. The space under the hood is used for mechanical components and electrical systems.
What screens and tech features are available inside?
The cabin includes a 12.3 inch digital driver display and a 14 inch infotainment screen. It also features Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, dual wireless charging pads, and an optional head up display.
When will the 2027 Toyota Highlander EV go on sale?
Toyota plans to start production near the end of 2026. Showroom availability is expected in late 2026 or early 2027, depending on the market.
