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Toyota’s Leap to Electric: The 2027 Highlander
The 2027 Highlander marks Toyota’s bold entry into the all‑electric SUV market. As the brand’s fourth BEV, it represents the culmination of a decade of electrification research and a clear signal that the company is serious about a sustainable future. The fifth‑generation model is not just a re‑imagined body; it is a complete re‑thinking of the Highlander’s architecture, powertrain, and interior experience.
Powertrain and Range: A New Benchmark
The Limited trim, the most advanced version, is powered by a 95.8‑kWh battery that delivers 338 horsepower and 323 pound‑feet of torque. Those figures translate into a real‑world range of over 300 miles, a figure that places the Highlander among the top performers in its class. The front‑wheel‑drive XLE trim uses a smaller 77‑kWh battery, producing 221 horsepower and 198 pound‑feet of torque, and offers a range of roughly 270 miles. Both trims are available in all‑wheel‑drive configurations, giving buyers flexibility without sacrificing performance.
Charging is designed for convenience: a standard 10‑to‑80 percent charge takes about 30 minutes, and the vehicle supports Level 3 fast charging. The charging port is located on the rear of the vehicle, a familiar placement for Toyota EVs, and the car can pre‑condition the battery before a charge to ensure optimal temperature.
Interior Innovation: Comfort Meets Technology
Inside, the Highlander feels like a step into the future while retaining the familiar Toyota feel. The cabin features a two‑tone steering wheel, a first for the brand, and a panoramic roof that stretches across the second and third rows. Ambient lighting runs through the door panels and the headliner, creating a subtle glow that can be customized with a range of colors, from muted blues to vibrant purples.
Practicality is emphasized with a host of cup holders, USB‑C ports, and a glove box—an uncommon feature in electric vehicles. The third‑row seats can be accessed via a small button on the side of the seat, and the seats themselves slide forward and back to accommodate different passenger sizes. While the Limited trim offers heated rear seats, the XLE does not, reflecting the price and feature differences between the two trims.
The infotainment system, while still in prototype form, appears to be a refreshed version of Toyota’s current interface. It supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a range of drive modes—including Normal, Eco, Sports, Snow Range, and a custom mode that lets drivers tweak powertrain, steering, and climate settings. A physical volume knob and a “P” button are located on the center console, and a small wireless charging pad sits beneath the console, wrapped in Alcantara material.
Exterior Design: A Blend of Familiarity and Freshness
The Highlander’s exterior retains the “hammerhead” front end that has become a signature of Toyota’s recent SUVs, but it also introduces new elements such as electronic door handles and a distinctive LED strip that runs along the side of the vehicle. The car is slightly longer and wider than the previous generation, yet it is about an inch shorter at the top, giving it a more compact profile.
Wheel options vary between trims: the Limited comes standard with larger 19‑inch wheels, while the XLE offers smaller 18‑inch wheels. Both trims can be fitted with Bridgestone Alenza tires, and the Limited can also be equipped with a 22‑inch squared setup for a more rugged look.
Technology and Safety: A Comprehensive Suite
Safety features are integrated seamlessly into the cabin. The vehicle includes a multi‑terrain select system, crawl control, and a range of driver‑assist technologies that are expected to be similar to those found in Toyota’s current lineup. The dashboard features a single central gauge pod, and the vehicle’s climate control panel is located on the center console, offering separate controls for the front and rear passengers.
While the prototype shows a number of warning lights and a slightly different layout for the infotainment screen, these are likely to be refined before the production model rolls out. Toyota has also highlighted that the battery modules will be manufactured in Kentucky, underscoring the company’s commitment to domestic production.
What to Expect When the 2027 Highlander Hits the Road
Although the vehicle is still in the prototype stage, the preview gives a clear sense of what buyers can anticipate. The Highlander will be available in two trims—XLE and Limited—each offering distinct powertrain options and feature sets. The Limited will likely carry a higher price tag, but it will also include premium amenities such as heated rear seats, a larger panoramic roof, and a more extensive ambient lighting palette.
Pricing details have not yet been released, but the Highlander’s size, range, and feature set suggest it will compete with other high‑end electric SUVs in the market. Toyota’s focus on a spacious interior, robust charging infrastructure, and a balanced powertrain makes the 2027 Highlander a compelling option for families and eco‑conscious drivers alike.
As Toyota prepares to launch the Highlander, enthusiasts can look forward to a vehicle that blends the brand’s reliability with cutting‑edge electric technology. The 2027 Highlander is poised to become a benchmark for future Toyota EVs, and it promises to deliver a driving experience that is both familiar and forward‑looking.