The 2027 Toyota Highlander Brings Electric Power to Family Adventures

For more than two decades, the Toyota Highlander has defined what a family SUV should be. When it debuted in 2000, it broke convention by pioneering the modern crossover segment with a unibody platform that prioritized comfort, efficiency, and everyday usability. Now, as the Highlander enters its next chapter, it's rewriting the rules once again with an all-electric powertrain that honours its legacy while embracing the future.

The 2027 Toyota Highlander arrives as Toyota's first three-row battery-electric vehicle in North America and the fourth BEV in the brand's expanding electrified lineup. With seating for up to seven, striking new styling, and a manufacturer-estimated range of up to 511 kilometres, the all-electric Highlander brings together the spaciousness and versatility families expect with the efficiency and capability of modern electric propulsion. It's a vehicle designed to carry the whole crew without compromise, whether navigating urban streets or exploring beyond the city limits.

A Legacy of Innovation

The Highlander nameplate has always reflected thoughtful engineering. Over 25 years, it evolved through multiple generations, consistently delivering comfort, reliability, and family-focused design. Each iteration refined the formula, adding features and capability while maintaining the approachable character that made the original successful.

The 2027 model continues that tradition by transitioning to an all-electric powertrain. Built on a modified Toyota Next Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform specifically developed to house high-capacity batteries while maximizing passenger space, the new Highlander maintains the interior roominess families need while delivering the benefits of electric propulsion. The platform's design balances aerodynamics, interior volume, and capability, making it equally suited for daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Electric Power Fulfills SUV Capability

The 2027 Highlander offers multiple powertrain configurations to match different needs. Front-wheel-drive models equipped with a 77.0-kWh battery deliver 221 net combined system horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel-drive versions with the larger 95.8-kWh battery pack produce up to 338 combined system horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque, providing confident acceleration and towing capability when needed.

Powertrain Highlights:

• Up to 338 combined system horsepower (AWD models)
• 323 lb-ft maximum torque for responsive acceleration
• Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control on AWD-equipped models
• Electronic all-wheel drive for enhanced traction

The Highlander's electric architecture includes a North American Charging System (NACS) port, providing access to thousands of Level 3 DC fast charging stations across the country. This wide charging network compatibility makes long-distance travel more practical for families.

Range Options for Every Lifestyle

Toyota offers five distinct battery and drivetrain configurations, allowing buyers to select the setup that best fits their driving patterns and budget. The longest-range configuration - XLE AWD with the 95.8-kWh battery - delivers a manufacturer-estimated 511 kilometres of total driving range, making it suitable for extended trips without frequent charging stops. For drivers with shorter daily commutes, the 77.0-kWh battery options provide ample range while potentially offering a lower entry price.

*Manufacturer-estimated range at 100% charge in 20-30 degrees Celsius. Actual range will vary depending on weather and other factors.

Space for Seven and Gear for Everyone

Despite its electric underpinnings, the 2027 Highlander maintains the spacious interior that has always been central to its appeal. Three-row seating accommodates up to seven passengers when equipped with the available second-row bench seat, while the cabin's elevated design features SofTex-trimmed seating, soft-touch materials on the dashboard and doors, and customizable interior lighting.

Cargo capacity remains generous, with 1,290 litres of storage space available when the third row is folded flat. This versatility makes the Highlander practical for everything from grocery runs to weekend camping trips. Heated front seats come standard, with ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats available on higher trims for year-round comfort.

Technology That Connects and Protects

The 2027 Highlander introduces the latest Toyota Multimedia system with 5G network capability, bringing enhanced connectivity and entertainment options to every journey. Drive Connect with Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist help drivers navigate efficiently, while the built-in Drive Recorder captures 20-second clips using the vehicle's exterior cameras for both manual and triggered events.

Safety remains a priority, with Toyota Safety Sense providing a suite of active safety technologies including rear seat reminder, backup camera with dynamic gridlines, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Tire Pressure Monitor System with direct pressure readout and individual tire location alerts, and Hill Start Assist Control. These systems work together to provide confidence on every drive.

Vehicle-to-Load: Power When You Need It

One of the most innovative features of the 2027 Highlander is Vehicle-to-Load technology, which allows the SUV to power external devices or serve as a backup power source during emergencies. With the purchase of bi-directional accessories, the Highlander can supply electricity to tools, appliances, or even a home during power outages. This capability transforms the vehicle from transportation into a mobile energy source, adding practical value beyond everyday driving.

Three Grades to Match Your Needs

The 2027 Highlander will be available in three grades in Canada:

XLE: The well-appointed base grade offers front-wheel or all-wheel drive, with a choice of 77.0-kWh or 95.8-kWh battery on AWD models. Standard equipment includes SofTex seating, Toyota Multimedia, Toyota Safety Sense, and heated front seats.

XLE Premium: Building on the XLE, this grade adds enhanced comfort and convenience features while maintaining the 95.8-kWh battery and AWD configuration. It's designed for families who want additional refinement without stepping up to the top trim.

Limited: The range-topping Limited grade delivers the most luxurious experience with premium materials, advanced technology features, and comprehensive comfort amenities. It comes standard with AWD and the 95.8-kWh battery for maximum capability.

Built in North America

The 2027 Highlander marks an important milestone as Toyota's first battery-electric vehicle assembled in North America. Production takes place at Toyota's manufacturing facility in Georgetown, Kentucky, with batteries sourced from Toyota's battery assembly plant in Liberty, North Carolina and a supplier partner.

Key Takeaways

Experience the All-Electric Highlander at Chassé Toyota

The 2027 Toyota Highlander honours 25 years of family-focused innovation while embracing an all-electric future. With its spacious interior, versatile configurations, and advanced technology, it's designed to satisfy the needs of modern families without compromising on capability or comfort. The Highlander arrives in late 2026, continuing into early 2027. Visit our team at Chassé Toyota to learn more about how the all-electric Highlander can fit into your family's life.