Toyota reveals all-new all-electric Highlander for 2027

Toyota unveiled the 2027 Highlander as an all-electric, three-row midsize SUV. It offers two battery sizes and a maximum quoted range of up to 511 kilometres.

Toyota unveiled the all-new 2027 Highlander at an event in California and this version is fully battery electric. The Highlander nameplate has been in Toyota's lineup for 25 years and the new model joins the brand's growing EV family as its largest battery-electric vehicle. The design echoes Toyota's recent EV styling and the vehicle keeps a three-row layout with more interior space than the outgoing model. Toyota said the Highlander will be built in the U.S. with batteries supplied from a new plant in North Carolina. Key details: - Two battery sizes are offered: 77 kilowatt-hours or 95.8 kilowatt-hours, with single- or dual-motor options and available all-wheel drive. - Base front-wheel-drive models use a single motor rated at 221 horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque and are quoted at up to 458 kilometres of range with the 77 kWh battery. - All-wheel-drive configurations add a rear motor for up to 338 horsepower and 323 lb-ft; models with the larger battery are quoted at up to 511 kilometres of range and can tow up to 3,500 pounds. - Interior space is increased with a wider stance and longer wheelbase; seating is for up to seven people or six with second-row captain's chairs, and third-row access features a one-touch slide function. - Cabin features include a 12.1-inch digital driver display, a 14.1-inch centre screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual wireless phone chargers, 64-colour ambient lighting, and double-glazed front windows and windshield for quieter operation. - All Highlanders will include a built-in NACS charging port and a maximum DC fast-charge capability of 150 kilowatts, which is quoted as 10 to 80 percent in 30 minutes on a compatible charger. Summary: The new Highlander marks Toyota's entry of a three-row midsize SUV into its battery-electric lineup, with multiple battery and drivetrain options and an expanded interior. Production will take place at Toyota's Kentucky plant using batteries from a new North Carolina facility. Pricing and exact availability were not announced. Undetermined at this time.