Toyota is finally entering the three-row battery electric vehicle market. The 2027 Toyota Highlander BEV debuted in Ojai, California, as the brand’s first all-electric SUV built in the United States. This vehicle moves the Highlander nameplate into its fifth generation. Toyota will assemble the model at its Georgetown, Kentucky facility. Batteries will come from a new $13.9 billion plant in Liberty, North Carolina.
Performance and Powertrain Details
The 2027 Highlander BEV offers two distinct power levels. The base front-wheel drive (FWD) model produces 221 horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque. Buyers seeking more power can opt for the all-wheel drive (AWD) configuration. The AWD system delivers a combined 338 horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque.
Toyota engineers used a modified TNGA-K platform for this application. The design focuses on a low center of gravity to improve handling. AWD models include Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control for light off-road use.
2027 Toyota Highlander BEV Specifications Table
| Feature | XLE FWD | XLE AWD | Limited AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 77.0 kWh | 77.0 kWh / 95.8 kWh | 95.8 kWh |
| Horsepower | 221 hp | 338 hp | 338 hp |
| Torque | 198 lb-ft | 323 lb-ft | 323 lb-ft |
| Estimated Range | 287 miles | 270 / 320 miles | 320 miles |
| Seating | 7 Passengers | 7 Passengers | 7 Passengers |
Range and Charging Infrastructure
Range varies by battery size and drivetrain. The 77.0-kWh battery provides an estimated 287-mile range in FWD trim. The larger 95.8-kWh battery increases the range rating to 320 miles on AWD models.
Toyota adopted the North American Charging System (NACS) port as standard. This allows the Highlander BEV to access thousands of DC fast charging stations. Under optimal conditions, the SUV charges from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
The vehicle includes battery preconditioning. This feature warms or cools the battery to reach optimal temperatures for fast charging. Users can activate it manually or through the navigation system. The Highlander also introduces vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology to the U.S. Toyota lineup. This allows the car to power external appliances or act as a home backup during outages.
Exterior Dimensions and Design
The 2027 Highlander BEV is larger and lower than the previous generation. It measures 198.8 inches in length. The width increased to 78.3 inches, while the height dropped to 67.3 inches. A 120.1-inch wheelbase pushes the wheels to the corners to maximize cabin space.
The exterior features the Toyota hammerhead design. It uses slim LED daytime running lights and flush door handles. These choices improve aerodynamics and give the SUV a modern profile.
Interior Technology and Comfort
The cabin seats up to seven passengers. SofTex-trimmed seating comes standard. The dashboard features a 12.3-inch driver display and a 14-inch touchscreen.
- Toyota Audio Multimedia: Supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Charging: Includes a dual Qi wireless charging tray and USB-C ports in every row.
- Ambient Lighting: Offers 64 colors and integrates with Safe Exit Assist.
- Cargo Space: Provides 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row and 45.6 cubic feet with the third row folded.
The Limited grade adds ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a Head-Up Display. It also offers an optional fixed glass panoramic roof, the largest in any Toyota.
Safety Systems and Driver Assistance
Every 2027 Highlander BEV comes with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0). This suite includes updated hardware for better detection.
- Pre-Collision System: Detects pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Operates at full speed ranges.
- Lane Tracing Assist: Keeps the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Proactive Driving Assist: Provides gentle braking and steering support.
- Drive Recorder: A built-in dashcam that captures video during incidents.
Market Availability
Toyota expects sales to start in late 2026. Pricing details will arrive closer to the launch date. The 2027 Toyota Highlander BEV joins the bZ4X, C-HR, and bZ Woodland in Toyota’s growing electric vehicle portfolio.
Strategic Leap in U.S. Electrification
The 2027 Highlander represents a major milestone as Toyota's first three-row battery-electric vehicle (BEV) for the U.S. market. Crucially, it is also the brand's first BEV to be assembled in America, with production taking place at the Georgetown, Kentucky plant. This local focus is reinforced by a $13.9 billion investment in a North Carolina facility to source batteries domestically.
Technological Innovation and Market Leadership
Toyota is positioning the Highlander as a "high-tech leader" in the midsize SUV segment rather than just another electric option. Notable technological firsts include:
- V2L Introduction: It is the first Toyota model sold in the U.S. to offer vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, allowing the SUV to power external appliances or serve as a home backup during outages.
- Charging Compatibility: Standardizing the North American Charging System (NACS) port ensures access to thousands of Level 3 DC fast-charging stations nationwide.
- Safety and User Interface: The debut of Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0) and a new driver-focused cockpit with a 14-inch touchscreen sets a new standard for the brand’s digital experience.
A Core Component of "Beyond Zero"
The Highlander BEV is the fourth model in Toyota's North American BEV lineup, joining the Toyota bZ4X, Toyota C-HR, and Toyota bZ Woodland. This expansion is a critical step in Toyota's "multi-pathway approach" toward carbon neutrality, offering diverse electrified options (HEVs, PHEVs, FCEVs, and BEVs) tailored to regional customer needs.
Evolution of a Family Icon
The 2027 model initiates the fifth generation of a nameplate that has sold over 3.6 million units since its 2001 debut. By evolving the Highlander into an all-electric "Best Experience Vehicle," Toyota aims to maintain its strong family appeal while advancing its mission to create sustainable mobility solutions for the future.
Sales are expected to begin in North America in late 2026.
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