Toyota has delayed production of the all-new 2027 Highlander EV by at least eight weeks. The three-row electric SUV was originally scheduled to enter production before the end of 2026. However, the company says the additional time will allow engineers to complete final adjustments before launch. As a result, customer deliveries may now begin in early 2027 instead of late 2026.
Production Delay Confirmed By Toyota
Toyota has officially confirmed that production of the 2027 Highlander EV will be postponed by a minimum of eight weeks. According to the company, the delay is intended to complete final refinements before the vehicle enters mass production.
Although Toyota has not disclosed specific changes, the additional development time is expected to improve quality, performance and overall customer experience before the SUV reaches global markets.
First All-Electric Highlander
The 2027 Highlander represents a major milestone for Toyota. Unlike previous Highlander models that offered petrol and hybrid powertrains, the new generation adopts a fully electric platform.
The three-row SUV expands Toyota’s growing EV portfolio, joining models such as the refreshed bZ, the C-HR EV and the bZ Woodland. Consequently, the Highlander will become one of the brand’s flagship electric SUVs for families.
Existing Highlander Will Continue Production
Despite the delay, Toyota will continue producing the current 2026 Highlander through December 2026. Buyers will still have access to petrol and hybrid variants while the company prepares the all-electric replacement.
Therefore, dealerships are expected to maintain inventory of the existing Highlander throughout much of 2027 in several global markets.
Delay Could Affect Lexus TZ & Subaru Getaway
The new Highlander EV also serves as the foundation for two upcoming electric SUVs. Lexus is developing the luxury-focused TZ, while Subaru plans to introduce the three-row Getaway EV using the same platform.
However, Toyota has not confirmed whether the production delay will impact the Lexus TZ launch. Likewise, Subaru has yet to announce if the Getaway’s production schedule will change.
Modern Platform & Family-Focused Design
The new Highlander EV has been developed as a spacious three-row electric SUV aimed at growing families. While Toyota has yet to release complete technical specifications, the model is expected to feature advanced driver assistance systems, a premium digital cabin and competitive electric driving range.
Moreover, the SUV is expected to offer fast-charging capability and the latest connected vehicle technologies for global markets.
Prices In India
Toyota has not announced plans to launch the all-electric Highlander in India. If introduced in the future as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), the electric SUV could carry an estimated starting price of around Rs 75 lakh (ex-showroom).
Prices In The Middle East
Toyota has not confirmed official pricing for Middle Eastern markets. However, the 2027 Highlander EV is expected to be priced between AED 220,000 and AED 270,000 in the UAE. Prices may vary across Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman depending on local taxes, specifications and available features.
Launch Timeline & Rivals
Following the production delay, the 2027 Toyota Highlander EV is now expected to reach global dealerships in early 2027. The additional development period reflects Toyota’s focus on delivering a refined product before launch. Once introduced, the electric SUV will compete with models such as the Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 9, Volvo EX90 and Rivian R1S. Overall, the Highlander EV will play a key role in Toyota’s expanding electric vehicle lineup, particularly in family-focused markets across the Middle East and beyond.
