Toyota has officially transitioned the Highlander nameplate into the electric era with the reveal of the 2027 Highlander BEV. Scheduled for a late 2026 market arrival in the United States, this SUV represents the manufacturer’s inaugural three-row battery-electric vehicle for the North American region. Assembly is slated for Toyota’s Kentucky facility, utilizing battery components produced in North Carolina and through a supplier partnership.
Performance and Drivetrain Options
The 2027 Highlander offers two distinct mechanical configurations catering to different performance requirements. The front-wheel-drive version serves as the entry point, producing 224 hp and 268 Nm of peak torque. For those requiring more power, the all-wheel-drive variant increases output to 343 hp and 438 Nm of torque. To maintain utility in varied conditions, AWD models include specialized driving modes such as Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control. Toyota indicates that the dedicated electric platform provides a lower center of gravity to improve handling stability compared to previous iterations.
Battery Capacity and Range
Buyers can select between two lithium-ion battery packs depending on the chosen trim and drivetrain. The base 77.0 kWh unit is available alongside a larger 95.8 kWh pack. Toyota estimates a maximum driving range of 515 km on a full charge for configurations equipped with the larger battery. The vehicle adopts the North American Charging System (NACS) standard for native access to widespread DC fast-charging networks and includes Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities, allowing the SUV to act as a mobile power source for external devices.
Interior Layout and Technology
The cabin has been redesigned with a focus on digital integration and passenger comfort. The SUV accommodates up to seven occupants across three rows. Key interior features include:
- A 14-inch central infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital driver display.
- The latest iteration of Toyota Safety Sense (4.0) as standard equipment.
- Standard heated front seats, with ventilated front and heated second-row seats available on the Limited trim.
- Cargo capacity exceeding 1,274 liters when the third-row seating is folded flat.
Exterior Design and Efficiency
To optimize aerodynamic efficiency, the 2027 Highlander features a streamlined exterior characterized by flush-mounted door handles and a full-width LED lighting signature. While the SUV maintains an upright silhouette to preserve interior volume, the surfaces are smoother than the outgoing internal combustion model. Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, while a fixed glass panoramic roof is available as an option. Pricing for the XLE and Limited trims will be confirmed closer to the late 2026 launch date.
