The 2027 Toyota Highlander is officially going fully electric, marking a major shift in Toyota’s SUV strategy. The brand has confirmed that the next-generation Highlander will be offered exclusively as a battery-electric vehicle (BEV), with no traditional gas or hybrid variants continuing under the Highlander nameplate.
This development significantly reshapes Toyota’s midsize SUV lineup in the United States.
Quick Facts: 2027 Toyota Highlander EV
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Fully Electric (BEV Only) |
| Gas/Hybrid | Discontinued for Highlander |
| Battery Options | Expected dual battery configurations |
| Production | U.S.-based manufacturing |
| Launch Timeline | Late 2026 as 2027 model |
| Segment | Three-row midsize SUV |
Gas and Hybrid Highlander Models Discontinued
Toyota has confirmed that the Highlander will no longer offer gasoline or hybrid powertrains starting with the 2027 model year.
Customers seeking hybrid or gas-powered options will now be directed toward the Toyota Grand Highlander, which continues to serve buyers preferring internal combustion or hybrid setups.
This strategic separation allows Toyota to reposition the Highlander as a dedicated electric SUV.
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Expected Battery and Range Details
While final EPA figures are pending, early reports suggest:
- Two battery pack options
- Estimated range between 280–320 miles depending on configuration
- All-wheel-drive variants expected
- DC fast-charging capability with modern charging standards
Toyota is expected to align the Highlander EV’s range with key competitors in the three-row electric SUV space.
U.S. Production and Market Focus
The 2027 Toyota Highlander EV will reportedly be produced in the United States, strengthening Toyota’s domestic EV footprint. Battery assembly operations are also expanding in North America, supporting long-term electrification plans.
This move positions the Highlander EV competitively against:
- Kia EV9
- Hyundai’s upcoming three-row electric SUV
- Volkswagen ID-based three-row EV models
Toyota is clearly targeting mainstream American family buyers transitioning to electric vehicles.
Interior and Technology Upgrades
The 2027 Highlander EV is expected to introduce:
- Large central touchscreen display
- Fully digital driver cluster
- Advanced driver-assistance systems
- Enhanced connectivity and OTA update capability
- Three-row seating configuration
Toyota is focusing heavily on modernizing interior tech to compete in the rapidly evolving EV market.
U.S. Market Positioning
The Toyota Highlander has historically been one of the best-selling midsize SUVs in America. Transitioning the model to an electric-only platform represents one of Toyota’s boldest electrification decisions to date.
This shift signals:
- Increased confidence in EV demand
- Clear separation between traditional and electric SUV lineups
- Long-term electrification commitment for high-volume models
Pricing is expected to be announced closer to launch, with industry analysts anticipating mid-range EV SUV positioning.
Comparison: Highlander EV vs Grand Highlander
| Feature | Highlander 2027 | Grand Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Electric Only | Gas + Hybrid |
| Market Focus | EV Buyers | Traditional Buyers |
| Launch | 2026/2027 | Ongoing |
| Segment | Midsize 3-row | Larger 3-row |
Toyota is effectively splitting its SUV strategy into two clear customer pathways.