Toyota’s 2027 Highlander EV: The Brand’s Boldest Move Yet in the Electric SUV Wars

Toyota just dropped a bombshell in the electric vehicle market with the unveiling of the 2027 Highlander EV—a fully redesigned midsize SUV that’s not just another EV, but a statement. This is Toyota’s first three-row electric vehicle for the US market and, crucially, the first Toyota EV assembled in America. For a company that has historically been cautious about going all-in on battery-electric vehicles, this is nothing short of a declaration of war.

A Familiar Name, a Revolutionary Powertrain

The Highlander name carries serious weight—Toyota has been selling gas-powered Highlanders for over two decades, making it one of the most recognizable SUVs on American roads. But this new version? It’s a complete reinvention. While competitors have been struggling to find their footing in the EV transition, Toyota is leveraging its most popular nameplate to make an immediate impact.

The timing couldn’t be more strategic. As global EV sales show signs of slowing and competitors report massive losses from their EV investments, Toyota’s hybrid-first strategy appears increasingly vindicated. The company’s new CEO, Kenta Kon, has been credited with steering Toyota through the chaos of Chinese EV competition, global tariffs, and the expensive transition to electric powertrains.

Built in America, Designed to Dominate

The 2027 Highlander EV will be manufactured at Toyota’s Kentucky plant, a move that’s as much about business strategy as it is about patriotism. With potential tariffs looming under the Trump administration, domestic manufacturing provides crucial protection against trade disputes. But beyond the politics, this is about meeting American consumers where they are—in three-row SUVs.

Speaking of which, the midsize three-row SUV segment is currently the hottest category in the American automotive market. Families want space, versatility, and now, electric power. Toyota is positioning the Highlander EV to compete directly with established players like the Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 9, and even the premium Rivian R1S.

Trim Levels and Performance That Pack a Punch

Toyota is keeping it simple with just two trims: XLE and Limited. The XLE offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, while the Limited comes standard with AWD. But here’s where it gets interesting—battery options include a 77kWh pack and a larger 95.8kWh pack, giving buyers flexibility based on their needs and budget.

The performance specs are genuinely impressive. AWD models with the larger battery pack deliver up to 320 miles of estimated range, 338 horsepower, and 323 lb-ft of torque. That’s not just competitive—it’s class-leading. Even the front-wheel drive trims offer respectable numbers with 221 horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque.

Tech That’s Ahead of the Curve

The new Highlander features Toyota’s latest infotainment system, similar to what’s found in the new C-HR and bZ Woodland electric SUVs. The centerpiece is a massive 14-inch central touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch gauge cluster. But Toyota isn’t just throwing screens at the problem—they’re integrating them thoughtfully with customizable ambient lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and comprehensive charging options for devices in all three rows.

The panoramic glass roof deserves special mention—it’s the largest ever offered by Toyota, creating an airy, spacious feel throughout the cabin. Combined with the three-row seating configuration that accommodates seven passengers (with the third row folding flat to create over 45 cubic feet of cargo space), this SUV is designed for real family life.

Charging Infrastructure and Power Management

Toyota is going all-in on charging convenience. The Highlander EV features a NACS port for Tesla Supercharger access, addressing one of the biggest pain points for EV adoption. Under optimal conditions, the battery can charge from 10-80 percent in approximately 30 minutes using DC fast charging. Battery preconditioning comes standard, ensuring optimal charging performance whether activated manually or through the Drive Connect subscription service.

But Toyota’s innovation goes beyond just charging. The Highlander will be the brand’s first EV with vehicle-to-load capabilities, essentially functioning as a mobile power bank. In emergency situations, it can even serve as a backup power source during blackouts when equipped with optional bidirectional accessories. This isn’t just an SUV—it’s a mobile energy solution.

Size and Competition

Dimensionally, the new Highlander is built to compete. At 198.8 inches long, 78.3 inches wide, and 67.3 inches tall, with a 120.1-inch wheelbase, it’s comparable to Toyota’s current gas-powered Grand Highlander and goes toe-to-toe with other three-row electric SUVs on the market.

The Bigger Picture

Toyota’s timing here is impeccable. The recently revamped bZ (formerly bZ4x) has been a surprise hit, ranking fourth in overall EV sales in the US in January, ahead of established players like Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ford’s Mustang Mach-E. With the C-HR hatchback and bZ Woodland also expected to hit US markets later this year, Toyota is building serious momentum.

The Highlander EV represents Toyota’s best chance to not just compete but dominate in the EV space. After years of being criticized for its slow EV rollout, the company appears to have found its rhythm. The question isn’t whether Toyota can make great EVs anymore—the bZ has proven that. The question is whether Toyota can leverage its brand strength, manufacturing expertise, and now, compelling EV offerings to become the leader in this space.

With pricing expected later this year when production begins, all eyes will be on how Toyota positions the Highlander EV against its competitors. If the specs, features, and performance hold up against the price point, this could be the vehicle that finally establishes Toyota as a true EV powerhouse.

The automotive world is watching, and Toyota has finally brought its A-game to the electric vehicle revolution.

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