KATHMANDU: Toyota has revealed the 2027 Highlander EV, its first three-row electric SUV for the U.S. market. The new model will be built at Toyota’s Kentucky plant using American-sourced batteries.
It is also the first electric vehicle to be produced at one of Toyota’s U.S. factories. The Highlander EV will compete directly with the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9 in the large electric SUV segment.
The electric Highlander will be available with two battery options. The base 77 kWh front-wheel-drive variant produces 221 hp and delivers an estimated range of up to 515 km. The same battery with dual-motor AWD makes 338 hp, with range reduced to 434 km. A larger 95.8 kWh battery, offered only with AWD trims, provides a maximum estimated range of around 515 km.
Toyota says the Highlander EV can charge from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes using a DC fast charger. It comes standard with a Tesla-style NACS charging port. Features such as battery preconditioning, Plug & Charge, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) are also included.
In terms of size, the Highlander EV measures 198.8 inches in length and rides on a 120.1-inch wheelbase. Cargo space stands at 15.9 cubic feet with the third row up and 45.6 cubic feet with the third row folded.
The SUV comes standard with a six-seat layout featuring second-row captain’s chairs, while a seven-seat configuration is optional on the XLE AWD variant.
Inside, the SUV features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen with Toyota’s latest infotainment system. It supports 5G connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Depending on the trim, buyers can get heated and ventilated seats, a head-up display, a 360-degree camera, lane change assist, a panoramic glass roof, and a JBL premium audio system.
Production will begin later this year in Kentucky, with sales expected to start in late 2026. Pricing details have not been announced yet.
