Toyota has unveiled the 2027 Highlander, the automaker’s first three-row battery electric vehicle for the U.S. market. The all-new model seats up to seven and will be assembled at Toyota’s Georgetown, Kentucky facility. It marks the fifth generation of the Highlander nameplate and the first BEV assembled in America by Toyota.
David Christ, group vice president of marketing for Toyota, said the new Highlander is positioned as a technology-forward entry in the midsize SUV segment. Sales are expected to begin in late 2026, continuing into early 2027. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.
Highlights
- First three-row BEV from Toyota in the U.S. — Available in FWD and electronic AWD configurations with 77.0-kWh or 95.8-kWh battery options.
- Up to 320 miles of estimated range. AWD models with the 95.8-kWh battery deliver the longest range in the lineup.
- Vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology debuts for Toyota in the U.S., enabling external power delivery for appliances and home backup.
- Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 comes standard, with updates to hardware and detection capabilities across the suite.
Battery Options and Driving Range
The 2027 Highlander offers two battery sizes paired with FWD or electronic AWD drivetrains. The lineup provides flexibility based on range and performance needs.
- XLE FWD: 77.0-kWh battery, estimated 287-mile range, 221 hp, 198 lb.-ft. torque
- XLE AWD (77.0 kWh): Estimated 270-mile range, 338 hp, 323 lb.-ft. torque
- XLE AWD (95.8 kWh): Estimated 320-mile range, 338 hp, 323 lb.-ft. torque
- Limited AWD: 95.8-kWh battery standard, estimated 320-mile range, 338 hp, 323 lb.-ft. torque
Chief engineer Yoshinori Futonagane said the team focused on efficiency and driving engagement. AWD models produce 338 net combined system horsepower and 323 lb.-ft. of max torque. FWD models deliver 221 hp and 198 lb.-ft.
Charging Infrastructure and V2L
A standard North American Charging System (NACS) port provides compatibility with thousands of Level 3 DC fast charging stations. Under ideal conditions, 10% to 80% charging takes approximately 30 minutes. Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging are also supported, with a dual-voltage 120V/240V cable included.
Additional charging features include:
- Battery Preconditioning: Optimizes battery temperature for faster DC fast charging. Manual activation or automatic via Drive Connect subscription when navigating to a charging station.
- Plug & Charge: Industry-standard protocol for automatic identification and authorization on supported networks. Requires an active Remote Connect subscription.
- Charge Assist and ECO Charge: Enables scheduling during lower-rate periods or when renewable energy may be available.
Vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology is a first for a Toyota model sold in the United States. It allows the Highlander to serve as a mobile power source for external appliances or as a home backup during outages.
Platform and Exterior Design
The 2027 Highlander rides on a modified Toyota Next Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform. Engineers developed it specifically to accommodate the high-capacity battery while maximizing passenger space. Aerodynamic features include underfloor covers, front and rear spats, and flush door handles.
Proportions have shifted compared to the outgoing model. Key dimensional changes include:
- Overall height: 67.3 inches (down 0.8 inch)
- Overall width: 78.3 inches (up 2.3 inches)
- Wheelbase: 120.1 inches (up from 112 inches)
- Overall length: 198.8 inches
Design elements include Toyota’s hammerhead-style full-width LED daytime running lights, broad fenders, semi-flush electronic door handles, and a rear spoiler integrated into the rear pillar. Noise reduction measures include acoustic glass on the front windshield and front side glass, plus sound-absorbing material throughout the cabin.
Six single-tone exterior colors are available: Spellbound (new), Wind Chill Pearl, Heavy Metal, Everest, Reservoir Blue, and Midnight Black Metallic. Two-tone combinations pair select colors with a black roof. Interior options include Black, Portobello, and the new Misty Gray.
Interior Layout and Cabin Features
The cabin accommodates up to seven passengers across three rows when equipped with the available second-row bench seat. Standard second-row captain’s chairs are included, with the bench available on XLE AWD models. The third row folds flat to reveal more than 45 cubic feet of cargo space.
Standard equipment across all grades includes:
- 14-inch touchscreen with Toyota Audio Multimedia
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- 64-color customizable ambient lighting integrated with Safe Exit Assist
- SofTex-trimmed seating with heated front seats and steering wheel
- Dual Qi wireless charging tray and USB-C ports throughout all three rows
- Hands-free power liftgate
The Limited grade adds ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, unique textured seat patterns, a head-up display, and rear window shades. An available fixed glass panoramic roof is the largest offered in the Toyota lineup. The cabin provides 18 total cup holder locations and multiple dedicated storage areas.
Infotainment and Connected Services
The latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system was developed in partnership with Toyota Motor North America and Toyota Connected North America. It features AT&T 5G connectivity, customizable home screen widgets, and an enhanced voice assistant responding to “Hey Toyota” prompts.
Standard connectivity includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, simultaneous dual Bluetooth pairing, and SiriusXM with 360L. Spotify streaming is newly available with a separate subscription. The native navigation system now displays full-screen on the digital gauge cluster.
A built-in Drive Recorder captures 20-second clips using the vehicle’s exterior cameras. Connected Services trials include Drive Connect, Cloud Navigation with 3D Maps, Safety Connect, and Service Connect. The Toyota mobile app supports remote charging management.
Safety Systems and Driver Assistance
Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0) is standard on all grades. The updated suite includes improvements to hardware and detection. Key features include:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Detects vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists with automatic emergency braking.
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): Adaptive cruise control with vehicle-to-vehicle distance management.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA): Lane marking and road edge detection above 30 mph with corrective steering.
- Proactive Driving Assist (PDA): Uses camera and radar for braking and steering support in distance control.
- Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Road Sign Assist round out the standard TSS 4.0 suite.
Toyota’s Star Safety System is also standard. It includes Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, ABS, and Smart Stop Technology. Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking is included. The Limited grade adds Advanced Park, Panoramic View Monitor, Lane Change Assist, Front Cross Traffic Alert, and Traffic Jam Assist.
Trim Levels and Key Specifications
The 2027 Highlander is offered in two grades. The XLE is available with FWD or AWD, while the Limited comes exclusively with AWD and the larger 95.8-kWh battery.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Grades | XLE, Limited |
| Drivetrains | XLE: FWD / AWD; Limited: AWD |
| Powertrain | Battery electric |
| Battery Options | 77.0 kWh (XLE); 95.8 kWh (XLE AWD / Limited) |
| Est. Range | 287 mi (FWD); 270 mi (AWD 77 kWh); 320 mi (AWD 95.8 kWh) |
| Horsepower | 221 hp (FWD); 338 hp (AWD) |
| Torque | 198 lb.-ft. (FWD); 323 lb.-ft. (AWD) |
| Overall Length | 198.8 inches |
| Overall Width | 78.3 inches |
| Overall Height | 67.3 inches |
| Wheelbase | 120.1 inches |
| Cargo (3rd row down) | 45.6 cubic feet |
| Cargo (3rd row up) | 15.9 cubic feet |
| Assembly | Georgetown, Kentucky |
Manufacturing and Battery Supply
The 2027 Highlander will be assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) in Georgetown. Batteries are sourced domestically from Toyota’s $13.9 billion battery assembly plant in Liberty, North Carolina, and a supplier partner. The Highlander joins the bZ, bZ Woodland, and C-HR as the fourth BEV in Toyota’s U.S. lineup.
Toyota will offer 22 different models with electrified powertrains once the Highlander reaches dealers.
Warranty Coverage
The standard warranty includes 36 months/36,000 miles of basic coverage, 60 months/60,000 miles for the powertrain, and 60 months of corrosion protection with no mileage cap. Electric vehicle driving components, including the traction battery, are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles. ToyotaCare covers factory-scheduled maintenance for 1 year or 10,000 miles and 24/7 roadside assistance for 2 years.
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