Toyota is officially stepping into a new era with the launch of the all-new Toyota Highlander EV, a fully electric three-row SUV designed to meet the needs of modern families while keeping sustainability at the forefront. Set to arrive for the 2027 model year, this electric version of the popular Highlander replaces traditional petrol power with a capable battery-electric setup, marking a major milestone for Toyota in the U.S. electric SUV space.
What makes this launch even more significant is that the Highlander EV becomes Toyota’s first all-electric three-row SUV in the United States, blending practicality, long driving range, strong performance, and modern tech into one spacious package.
Let’s take a closer look at what the new Toyota Highlander EV brings to the table.
Toyota Highlander EV: A Big Step in Toyota’s Electric Journey
Toyota has taken a thoughtful approach to electrification, and the Highlander EV reflects that strategy perfectly. Instead of downsizing or compromising on space, Toyota has retained everything buyers loved about the Highlander—comfort, practicality, and reliability—while introducing a fully electric drivetrain.
Production of the Highlander EV will take place at Toyota’s Kentucky manufacturing facility, while battery components will be sourced from its newly established North Carolina battery plant. This localized production approach also helps Toyota streamline supply chains and support faster EV adoption in North America.
Platform and Battery Options Explained
The new Highlander EV is built on a reengineered TNGA-K platform, specifically adapted to house a large battery pack beneath the cabin floor. This layout not only improves structural rigidity but also helps lower the centre of gravity, enhancing ride stability and handling.
Toyota is offering two battery options:
- 77.0 kWh battery pack
- 95.8 kWh battery pack
Depending on the configuration and drivetrain, the electric SUV delivers a claimed driving range between 434 km and 515 km on a single charge. The longest range figure is achieved by all-wheel-drive variants equipped with the larger 95.8 kWh battery.
For a three-row electric SUV of this size, these numbers put the Highlander EV in a very competitive position.
Performance: Smooth, Silent, and Surprisingly Strong
Electric vehicles are known for instant torque, and the Highlander EV is no exception. Toyota has tuned the powertrains to balance everyday usability with confident performance.
Powertrain options include:
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD):
- 221 horsepower
- 268 Nm of torque
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD):
- Up to 338 horsepower
- 438 Nm of torque (with the larger battery)
The AWD versions, especially with the bigger battery pack, should offer brisk acceleration and excellent traction, making them well-suited for highway cruising and light off-road conditions.
Fast Charging and NACS Support
Charging convenience is another area where Toyota has clearly focused its attention. The Highlander EV comes equipped with a North American Charging System (NACS) connector, allowing access to a wide and growing fast-charging network.
Charging highlights:
- DC fast charging support
- 10% to 80% charge in around 30 minutes under ideal conditions
- Battery temperature optimisation for consistent charging speeds
- Automatic charger authentication for ease of use
These features help reduce charging anxiety and make long-distance travel more realistic for families.
Spacious 7-Seater Cabin With Smart Practicality
One of the biggest strengths of the Highlander EV is its three-row seating layout, making it a genuine family-friendly electric SUV.
Interior highlights:
- Seating for up to 7 passengers
- Flat battery floor for better legroom
- More than 1,274 litres of cargo space with the third row folded
- Heated front seats as standard
- Available ventilated seats and second-row heating on higher trims
- Panoramic glass roof for an airy cabin feel
Whether it’s daily commuting, school runs, or long road trips, the Highlander EV promises comfort without compromise.
High-Tech Dashboard and Infotainment
Toyota has given the Highlander EV a modern, tech-forward interior design that feels premium and intuitive.
Tech features include:
- 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Wireless smartphone connectivity
- Over-the-air software update capability
- Advanced voice commands
The interface is designed to be clean and easy to use, avoiding unnecessary complexity while still offering all the features today’s buyers expect.
Exterior Design: Aerodynamic Yet Familiar
From the outside, the 2027 Highlander EV retains the bold SUV presence the model is known for, but with several EV-specific upgrades.
Design highlights:
- Aerodynamically shaped greenhouse
- Sleek LED headlamps and tail lamps
- Flush door handles for improved airflow
- Pronounced wheel arches
- Wider stance and longer wheelbase
The result is a design that looks modern and efficient without losing the rugged appeal SUV buyers love.
Safety Comes Standard
Toyota has equipped the Highlander EV with its latest safety technology across the lineup.
Standard safety features include:
- Toyota Safety Sense suite
- Automatic emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
With these systems in place, the Highlander EV aims to deliver both peace of mind and confidence behind the wheel.
Launch Timeline and Availability
Toyota has confirmed that sales of the Highlander EV in the U.S. will begin in late 2026, ahead of the 2027 model year. Pricing details and full variant breakdowns are expected closer to launch.
While there’s no official word yet on global or India-specific availability, the Highlander EV sets a strong foundation for Toyota’s future electric SUVs worldwide.
Final Thoughts
The all-new Toyota Highlander EV proves that electric SUVs don’t have to sacrifice space, comfort, or performance. With a long driving range, fast charging, strong power outputs, and a genuinely usable three-row layout, it positions itself as a practical EV for families who want to go electric without compromise.
As Toyota continues expanding its EV lineup, the Highlander EV could easily become one of the most appealing electric SUVs in its segment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the maximum range of the Toyota Highlander EV?
The Highlander EV offers a claimed range of up to 515 km on a full charge.
2. How many seats does the Highlander EV have?
It comes with three rows of seating and can accommodate up to seven passengers.
3. What battery options are available?
Buyers can choose between 77.0 kWh and 95.8 kWh battery packs.
4. Does the Highlander EV support fast charging?
Yes, it supports DC fast charging and can reach 80% charge in about 30 minutes.
5. Is the Highlander EV all-wheel drive?
Yes, AWD variants are available and offer higher power output.
6. Where is the Highlander EV manufactured?
Vehicle production takes place in Kentucky, with batteries sourced from North Carolina.
7. Does it support the Tesla charging network?
Yes, it uses the NACS connector, allowing access to compatible fast chargers.
8. How much cargo space does it offer?
With the third row folded, cargo space exceeds 1,274 litres.
9. What safety features are included?
It comes with Toyota Safety Sense, including adaptive cruise control and emergency braking.
10. When will the Highlander EV go on sale?
Sales are expected to begin in the second half of 2026.
By BestGaddi
