Toyota Highlander Goes Fully Electric

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The 2027 Toyota Highlander enters its fifth generation as a fully electric three-row SUV. Gas and hybrid models are gone. Built on a modified TNGA-K platform, it targets rivals like the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9. Sales begin in late 2026, with pricing expected to start in the mid-$50,000 range.

Powertrains and Driving Range

Two trims are offered: XLE and Limited. XLE comes in front- or all-wheel drive, while Limited is AWD only. A 77-kWh battery is standard, with a 96-kWh pack optional on AWD XLE and standard on Limited.

Range estimates span 270 to 320 miles. The XLE FWD delivers 287 miles, AWD with the small battery offers 270 miles, and the larger pack enables up to 320 miles.

Performance and Charging

Front-wheel-drive models produce 221 horsepower and 198 lb-ft from a single motor. All-wheel-drive versions add a rear motor for a combined 338 horsepower and 323 lb-ft. Toyota hasn’t released acceleration figures, but AWD models should improve upon the outgoing gas model’s 7.2-second 0–60 mph run.

Charging uses a standard NACS port. Toyota estimates a 10–80 percent DC fast-charge takes about 30 minutes. An 11-kW onboard AC charger and vehicle-to-load capability are included.

Toyota Highlander: Bigger Size and Bolder Styling

The electric Highlander grows in nearly every dimension. It’s wider, longer, and rides on a wheelbase roughly eight inches longer than before, though the roofline is slightly lower.

Styling becomes boxier, with chunky fenders, geometric headlights, and full-width daytime running lights. The Limited trim offers 22-inch wheels and an optional two-tone paint scheme with a black roof.

Toyota Highlander: Tech-Focused Interior

Inside, a 14.0-inch touchscreen pairs with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with 5G connectivity and a built-in Drive Recorder dashcam feature.

Physical controls remain for climate and drive modes. The Limited adds a head-up display, while dual wireless chargers and multiple USB-C ports serve all three rows.

Space and Comfort

Seating for up to seven is available, though a second-row bench is exclusive to the XLE AWD. SofTex synthetic upholstery is standard, along with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Ventilated front and heated second-row seats are Limited-only features.

Cargo space exceeds 45 cubic feet with the third row folded flat. Toyota also integrates extra storage, 18 cupholders, and a hands-free power liftgate.

Toyota Highlander: Conclusion

The 2027 Highlander marks a major shift for Toyota’s popular three-row SUV. By going fully electric, it blends family-friendly practicality with competitive range, strong AWD performance, and modern tech. If pricing stays near the mid-$50,000 mark, the new Highlander could become a serious contender in the growing electric three-row SUV segment

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