The 2027 Toyota Highlander EV is expected to be Toyota’s first all‑electric version of its best‑selling three‑row family SUV, pairing a battery‑electric powertrain with familiar Highlander practicality and optional all‑wheel drive. It is being developed for U.S. production in Kentucky, with launch timing widely tipped for late 2026 as a 2027 model.
Release Timing And Positioning
Automotive reports and Toyota statements indicate that a new three‑row electric SUV will be built at the brand’s Georgetown, Kentucky plant, and insiders widely identify this vehicle as the Highlander EV rather than a separate bZ‑branded model. Production is expected to start in 2026, with the Highlander EV arriving as a 2027 model, sitting alongside the gasoline Grand Highlander to give buyers both ICE and EV options in the same size class.
Toyota appears to be repositioning the Highlander nameplate as one of its volume “bridge” models into electrification, using a more mainstream badge instead of bZ branding to appeal to existing Highlander owners who are ready for their first full EV. The model is aimed squarely at families who need three rows and strong range but do not want a luxury‑brand price.
Design: Familiar Shape, EV Details
Early previews suggest the Highlander EV will keep the general proportions of today’s Highlander/Grand Highlander—rounded but muscular styling, three rows and a slightly more upright tail—while adopting EV‑specific cues. Expect a mostly closed front grille, smoother underbody, aero‑optimized wheels and distinct lighting signatures to boost efficiency and visually separate it from gasoline models.
Inside, the cabin is likely to mirror recent Toyota three‑row designs, with a wide dashboard, large central touchscreen and digital driver display, plus plenty of storage and sliding second‑row seats. Toyota will lean into tech‑forward design (ambient lighting, larger screens, EV‑specific displays) while keeping traditional Highlander virtues like easy third‑row access and a flat load floor.
Battery, Range And Charging
Most reports point to a large lithium‑ion battery sized to deliver around 280–300 miles of usable range per charge in real‑world family use. Some sources suggest Toyota may eventually use its upcoming “Performance” battery tech—previewed on future Toyota EVs—which targets higher energy density and faster charging, though solid‑state packs are more likely reserved for later flagships.
Charging hardware is expected to include DC fast‑charging capable of bringing the pack from a low state of charge to about 80 percent in roughly 30 minutes on a high‑power public charger, plus AC home charging via a 240‑volt Level 2 unit. Bidirectional or vehicle‑to‑home power is being discussed for Toyota’s next wave of EVs and could appear on the Highlander EV to support home backup and campsite power.
Powertrain, AWD And Driving
The Highlander EV is widely expected to use a dual‑motor layout with standard or widely available all‑wheel drive, offering instant torque and smooth, quiet acceleration. Early estimates suggest 0–60 mph times under 6 seconds for dual‑motor models, making it noticeably quicker than a gas Highlander while delivering linear, one‑pedal‑friendly response in city traffic.
Toyota’s experience with its e‑Axle hardware in the bZ4X and related models will likely carry over, possibly with updated motors similar to those in the 2026 bZ family that use silicon‑carbide inverters for better efficiency and higher combined output. Expect multiple drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, and possibly Snow or Trail) that adjust throttle mapping, regenerative braking and power distribution for different conditions.
Core 2027 Highlander EV Numbers (Expected)
| Area | 2027 Toyota Highlander EV (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Platform | Dedicated three‑row EV architecture, built in Kentucky |
| Battery | Large lithium‑ion pack targeting ~280–300 miles of range |
| Powertrain | Likely dual‑motor electric with standard or available AWD |
| Output | Roughly mid‑300 hp combined, targeting sub‑6‑second 0–60 mph |
| Seating | 7–8 seats, three rows with flexible second‑row bench or captain’s chairs |
| Price Band | Estimated starting price around $55,000, rising toward $60,000+ with options |
These figures are based on current reporting and Toyota’s own EV component roadmap; final numbers will be confirmed closer to launch.
Tech, Infotainment And Safety
Inside, the Highlander EV is expected to feature a large touchscreen (likely 12.3 inches or bigger) running Toyota’s latest multimedia system, plus a fully digital instrument cluster with EV‑specific range, charging and energy‑flow displays. Standard equipment should include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB‑C ports in all three rows, and available head‑up display and premium audio.
Toyota Safety Sense will be standard, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane‑keeping assist, lane‑tracing assist, traffic‑jam assist, blind‑spot monitoring and 360‑degree camera views. Higher trims may add hands‑on, lane‑centering highway assist and automated parking functions, aligning the Highlander EV with the most advanced Toyota SUVs.
How It Fits Into Toyota’s SUV Lineup
The Highlander EV will sit alongside the gas Grand Highlander and smaller bZ‑branded EVs, giving Toyota full coverage of the three‑row family segment across powertrains. While the gas Highlander and Grand Highlander continue to serve buyers not ready to plug in, the Highlander EV is intended as a “no‑compromise” electric alternative with similar space and capability but zero tailpipe emissions.
For families who already trust the Highlander name, the EV version offers a familiar badge with lower running costs, quieter operation and strong performance, without forcing them into a completely new nameplate. As Toyota scales up EV production in Kentucky, the Highlander EV could become one of the brand’s key volume electric models in North America.
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FAQs
Q1 When will the Toyota Highlander EV be released?
Production is expected to start in 2026, with the Highlander EV arriving as a 2027 model, likely reaching showrooms in late 2026 or early 2027.
Q2 How far will the Highlander EV go on a charge?
Current estimates point to roughly 280–300 miles of range per charge, depending on battery size and drivetrain configuration.
Q3 Will the Highlander EV have all‑wheel drive?
Yes, a dual‑motor AWD setup is widely expected, giving strong traction and sub‑6‑second 0–60 mph performance in higher‑output versions.