By Steve Laser
Toyota and Lexus introduced 15 new EV concepts during a Tokyo press conference way back in Dec. 2021. Among the variations of the “beyond ZERO” battery electric vehicles was a model called the bZ Large SUV (below).
The concept offered three rows of seats, making it a family oriented alternative to the smaller bZ4X. It could become popular in markets including the U.S., where larger crossovers are in demand. Now we know the name of the upcoming production model. Instead of bZ-something, it will be called the Highlander.
2027 Toyota Highlander
The Highlander has been a success story for Toyota, selling more than 3.6 million units in the U.S. over the past 25 years. While gas and hybrid models have been offered, the all-new 2027 model will become the first to go all-electric.
Toyota says sales of the new Highlander in North America are expected to begin in late 2026. For the U.S., Highlander EV models include the XLE and Limited. Both will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), with batteries from a new Toyota plant in North Carolina, and a supplier.
With an all-new dynamic design, the Highlander EV rides on a modified TNGA-K platform. It’s lower, wider, and has a longer wheelbase than the current gas and hybrid models. Front styling features a sleek appearance that brings to mind the bZ Woodland.
The new Highlander XLE offers front- and electronic AWD models with a 77.0 kWh battery. A larger, 95.8 kWh battery is available on XLE AWD, and standard on Limited AWD. Initial manufacturer-estimated driving ranges run from 270 miles to 320 miles. Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control are included with AWD.
All models are fitted with an NACS port that offers the ability to charge at Level 3 DC charging stations. Toyota estimates fast DC charging from 10- to 80-percent in about 30 minutes under ideal conditions. Highlander also offers Level 1 and 2 AC charging, and features a dual-voltage 120V/240V cable. Battery Preconditioning and V2L (vehicle-to-load) technology are also planned for the new models.
Highlander’s modern interior features standard six-passenger seating with SofTex® trim and captain’s chairs in the second row. Seating for seven is available on XLE AWD with a second-row bench option. A multi-function center console includes dual wireless device charging, while USB-C ports are positioned for use in all three rows.
The XLE has a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, 14-inch touchscreen with Toyota Audio Multimedia, paddle shifters with regenerative braking, a drive recorder, and Toyota Safety Sense 4.0. Limited adds a Head-up Display, Panoramic View Monitor, ventilated front seats, rear sunshades, and Advanced Park. A JBL® sound system, panoramic roof, 22-inch wheels, and two-tone paint are on the option list.
The Toyota Multimedia system has wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Bluetooth®, SiriusXM® with 360L®, and available Spotify® integrated streaming (subscription required). Toyota Connected Services include trials of services like Drive Connect with Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation with 3D Maps and Destination Assist, Remote Connect, Safety Connect, and Service Connect.
The Highlander will become the fourth all-electric model available in the U.S. market. Siblings include the 2026 updated bZ, new bZ Woodland, and new C-HR.
Note: Prototype vehicles are shown in this story. Features, specifications, and launch timing for future North American production models are subject to change without notice.
News sources and photos courtesy of Toyota Motor North America, and Toyota Motor Corp.
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