Toyota has officially confirmed that the next generation of its popular Highlander SUV, launching in 2027, will feature a fully electric powertrain. This marks a significant shift in the automaker’s strategy, as Toyota has historically prioritized hybrid technology over full electrification.
First Look at the Electric SUV
A recently released teaser video showcases the Highlander badge alongside both “BEV” (Battery Electric Vehicle) and “AWD” (All-Wheel Drive) emblems on a redesigned liftgate. The design direction appears to align with Toyota’s recent squared-off aesthetic, as seen in the Land Cruiser and 4Runner models.
Why This Matters
Toyota’s cautious approach to EVs has been a point of discussion in the industry. While competitors have aggressively pursued electric lineups, Toyota has doubled down on hybrids, believing they offer a more practical transition for consumers. The Highlander’s full electrification signals a change: Toyota is now responding to market pressures and evolving consumer demand.
What We Know So Far
The new Highlander will maintain the “Highlander” name rather than adopting an “EV” suffix. This suggests Toyota intends to integrate the electric model seamlessly into the existing lineup, rather than treating it as a separate variant. The automaker has not yet clarified the fate of combustion and hybrid Highlander models.
Toyota has been building hype with a series of teasers over the past three weeks:
– The first teaser revealed a blocky silhouette with distinctive wrap-around taillights.
– The second confirmed a three-row configuration and offered an initial look at the interior.
Full Reveal Imminent
The 2027 Highlander will be fully unveiled tomorrow, February 10, at 9:30 p.m. ET. The launch is expected to provide further details on range, performance, and pricing.
The shift to an all-electric Highlander is a strategic move by Toyota. It indicates the company is now taking full electrification seriously, not as an alternative, but as a core part of its future product strategy.
