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Toyota unveils the Highlander 2027 — its first seven-seat all-electric SUV
Toyota has introduced the fifth-generation Highlander for 2027, marking a major shift for the popular three-row SUV: for the first time in its history the Highlander is available as a fully electric seven-seat model. The new Highlander replaces the fourth-generation gasoline model that debuted in 2019 and brings fresh styling, a reworked interior and Toyota's latest EV engineering to a mainstream family crossover.
Powertrain options and real-world range
The 2027 Highlander is offered in two trim families — XLE and Limited — with both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) permutations where applicable. Toyota’s powertrain lineup is straightforward and targeted at buyers who need space and range rather than hardcore performance.
- XLE FWD: single electric motor producing 221 hp paired with a 77 kWh battery. Estimated range: about 461 km (≈ 287 miles).
- XLE AWD: dual-motor AWD using the same 77 kWh pack but tuned to 338 hp. Estimated range: about 434 km (≈ 270 miles).
- Limited AWD: flagship model with dual motors (338 hp) and a larger 95.8 kWh battery. Estimated range: about 515 km (≈ 320 miles).
These figures position the Highlander EV competitively among seven-seat crossovers, with the top Limited trim offering particularly impressive range for a three-row vehicle. Expect the AWD variants to prioritize traction and towing capability while sacrificing a bit of range compared with FWD.
Exterior design: modern and aerodynamic
Electrification has influenced the Highlander’s look: sharper lines, wider fenders and flush or semi-flush door handles improve aerodynamics and give the SUV a contemporary stance. Toyota’s new “Hammerhead” front-end design theme appears in the headlamps and grille area, lending the Highlander a distinctive daytime signature.
Interior, tech and practicality
Toyota has overhauled the cabin with family-friendly tech and connectivity. Highlights include:
- A 14-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
- USB charging ports for all three rows.
- The largest panoramic glass roof Toyota has fitted to any of its models, plus customizable ambient lighting with 64 colors.
- Folding the rear seats increases cargo capacity to roughly 1,274 liters — a practical number for weekend trips or hauling large items.
The interior balances premium touches with durable materials suited to active families, while the generous tech pack keeps the Highlander competitive against other midsize electric SUVs.
Safety systems — Toyota’s long-standing priority
As with other Toyota models, safety is central. The Highlander 2027 comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, which bundles advanced driver-assistance systems such as:
- Automatic pedestrian detection and emergency braking
- Adaptive radar cruise control up to highway speeds
- Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Traffic-sign recognition and proactive driver-assist features
Optional or standard additional aids include blind-spot radar, rear automatic braking and front and rear parking assist sensors to simplify everyday driving and parking.
Market positioning, pricing and production
Production of the 2027 Highlander EV will begin in late 2026 at Toyota’s Kentucky plant in the U.S., with the battery cells coming from Toyota’s new factory in North Carolina. Toyota has not published official U.S. pricing yet, but given the current gasoline Highlander starts around $47,000, industry estimates place the base Highlander EV near $48,000 — factoring in the battery and electric driveline premium.
What this means for buyers and the market
The Highlander 2027 brings three-row electric capability to buyers who need family seating and long range without stepping up to a full-size electric SUV. For those comparing midsize EVs, the Highlander’s combination of an available 320-mile range (Limited AWD), Toyota’s safety suite and proven manufacturing footprint could make it a pragmatic choice for families moving to electrified driving.
In short: Toyota’s Highlander 2027 is a strategic, well-rounded entry into the seven-seat electric SUV segment — practical, safe and built for everyday family use.
Comments
turbo_mk
Not bad for a family EV, but that $48k estimate feels optimistic. Interior looks comfy tho, I want real towing numbers
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