Toyota teased a new electric SUV last month, and that was followed a few days later by a first look at the vehicle’s spacious, three-row interior. But we didn’t know exactly what this mystery SUV would be called—until now. In a third teaser, and just one day before it’s set to be revealed, the Japanese brand has confirmed that the vehicle will be an all-new Highlander EV. To be launched as a 2027 model, this will be Toyota’s first three-row EV and one of the few such vehicles to be available in the United States.
Familiar Name, All-New Powertrain
2027 Toyota Highlander Toyota
The latest teaser shows the rear panel of the electric Highlander, with the “BEV” badging confirming it’s a battery-electric SUV. Another “AWD” badge suggests it will have dual motors. Since the two-row bZ Woodland already produces 375 horsepower from its dual motors, the electric Highlander is likely to be similarly powerful.
“Meet the all-new 2027 Highlander. Featuring sleek, modern lines, an electric powertrain, and a spacious three-row cabin with comfort for the whole crew,” said Toyota.
The Highlander name dates back to the first-generation model, which arrived in the U.S. early in 2001. The current version is the fourth generation and has been in production since 2019. It’s become a bit irrelevant, especially as Toyota sells the newer Grand Highlander with a bigger third row and lower price. It’s not immediately apparent if the gas-powered Highlander will continue once the electric one gets here.
In the interior teaser shared a few days ago, we got to see seating for at least six people, cool blue ambient lighting, second-row captain’s chairs, and large digital displays for the driver.
Estimated Pricing and Rivals
Kristen Brown/Autoblog
Pricing and technical specifications are unconfirmed at the moment, but with the two-row bZ Woodland starting at $45,300, the new Highlander EV is expected to cost more. It will compete against the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9, which start in the vicinity of $55k. That’s the price point we expect for the electric Highlander when it goes on sale.
Although that’s expensive (you can buy a three-row Grand Highlander for just $41,660), Toyota seems to be positioning its EVs as more premium, performance-focused, and upscale alternatives to its gas-powered SUVs—especially after the rather lackluster bZ4X that arrived a few years ago. The C-HR has just made a comeback in electric form, but its $37,000 starting price is way above the older C-HR’s; you do get plenty of performance, though.
We look forward to setting eyes on the Highlander EV in full when it’s revealed tomorrow, February 10.
