Learn About the 2027 Toyota Highlander EV

Overview of the 2027 Toyota Highlander EV

Toyota has announced plans to introduce an all-electric version of the Highlander for the 2027 model year. This represents a significant shift in Toyota's vehicle lineup, as the Highlander has been one of their most popular three-row SUVs since its debut in 2001. The move toward electrification reflects broader industry trends, with major automakers investing heavily in electric vehicle technology to meet changing consumer preferences and environmental regulations.

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The 2027 Highlander EV will join Toyota's growing electric vehicle portfolio, which includes models like the bZ4X and the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid. Unlike the RAV4 Prime, which combines a gasoline engine with electric power, the Highlander EV will be fully electric, meaning it will run entirely on battery power with no gasoline engine as backup. This design choice makes it compete directly with other three-row electric SUVs already on the market or in development, such as the Kia EV9, Volkswagen ID.Buzz, and the upcoming Chevrolet Blazer EV.

Toyota's decision to electrify the Highlander shows the company's commitment to offering electric options across different vehicle categories. While some consumers have expressed skepticism about electric vehicles, Toyota's reputation for reliability and quality control may encourage buyers who have been hesitant about switching to battery-powered transportation. The Highlander's practical design—spacious interior, three rows of seating, and strong towing capacity in its gasoline versions—suggests Toyota will prioritize these features in the electric variant.

Practical Takeaway: The 2027 Highlander EV represents Toyota's entry into the competitive three-row electric SUV market. Understanding this vehicle's role in Toyota's electrification strategy can help shoppers decide whether a fully electric three-row SUV matches their transportation needs.

Expected Performance and Battery Specifications

While Toyota has not released complete technical specifications for the 2027 Highlander EV as of early 2025, industry analysts and Toyota's statements provide some insights into what buyers might expect. The vehicle will likely use Toyota's battery technology developed through partnerships and in-house research. Toyota has been investing in solid-state batteries and traditional lithium-ion battery packs, with plans to introduce solid-state batteries in production vehicles within the next few years. However, the 2027 Highlander EV may use advanced lithium-ion technology rather than the newer solid-state versions.

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Based on Toyota's current electric vehicle offerings and market trends, the Highlander EV could feature a battery capacity ranging from 80 to 100+ kilowatt-hours (kWh), which would provide an estimated driving range of 300 to 400 miles on a full charge. This range estimate is based on similar vehicles in the market—the Kia EV9 offers up to 304 miles of range, while larger battery versions of competing vehicles achieve 350+ miles. For a three-row family SUV, this range would be sufficient for most daily driving and many long-distance trips, though owners would need to plan charging stops for extended journeys.

Performance metrics for electric vehicles are typically measured in horsepower and acceleration rather than traditional engine specifications. The Highlander EV might deliver between 300 to 400 horsepower, with potential for rapid acceleration compared to the current gasoline Highlander. Electric motors deliver maximum torque immediately, making even modestly powered EVs feel responsive in everyday driving. Toyota will likely offer different powertrain options, such as single-motor (rear-wheel drive) and dual-motor (all-wheel drive) configurations, allowing buyers to choose between efficiency and performance.

Charging capability is another important performance metric. The 2027 Highlander EV will likely support both Level 1 charging (standard 120-volt household outlets, slowest), Level 2 charging (240-volt home or public chargers, moderate speed), and DC fast charging (high-power public chargers, fastest). DC fast charging could add 200+ miles of range in 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific charger and vehicle configuration. Toyota's current electric vehicles support charging at rates up to 150 kW, and the Highlander EV might match or exceed this capability.

Practical Takeaway: Research the Highlander EV's battery size, driving range, and charging speeds when they are officially announced. Compare these specifications against your actual driving patterns—daily commute distance, frequency of long trips, and access to home charging—to determine if the vehicle fits your lifestyle.

Interior Design and Seating Capacity

The 2027 Highlander EV will maintain the three-row seating configuration that makes the current Highlander popular with families. This layout provides seating for up to eight passengers across three rows, though the exact capacity may vary depending on final design choices. The first row typically seats two passengers, the second row accommodates three, and the third row seats three more. However, third-row space in SUVs is generally best suited for children or shorter trips, as legroom and headroom are limited compared to front rows.

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The transition to electric power opens design opportunities that gas-powered vehicles cannot easily achieve. Because electric motors are smaller and take up less space than traditional gasoline engines, designers can potentially increase interior room. Some electric vehicles use this advantage to lower the vehicle's floor height, creating a more spacious interior feel. The Highlander EV might feature a slightly reconfigured interior layout that maximizes usable space compared to the gasoline version. Additionally, the absence of a transmission tunnel running down the center of the vehicle could provide more storage and floor space in certain areas.

Climate control and passenger comfort features will be important in the 2027 Highlander EV. Electric vehicles differ from gas-powered cars in how they use energy for heating and cooling. In winter, cabin heating drains battery power more significantly than in gas vehicles, where waste engine heat can warm the cabin at no additional cost. Toyota will likely include heat pump technology, which is more energy-efficient than traditional electric heaters. This technology transfers heat rather than generating it, reducing battery drain during cold weather. Heated seats and a heated steering wheel, which warm specific areas rather than the entire cabin, may be standard or available options to improve efficiency.

Storage space is a practical consideration for three-row SUVs. With the second and third rows in use, cargo space behind the third row will be limited—probably around 18 to 24 cubic feet, similar to current gasoline Highlanders. With the third row folded, space could expand to 80+ cubic feet. The battery pack location will influence how much space Toyota can allocate for storage compartments and under-seat storage. Electric vehicles often use floor-mounted batteries, which might reduce under-seat storage capacity but could enable innovative storage solutions elsewhere in the cabin.

Practical Takeaway: When the 2027 Highlander EV specifications are released, compare the interior dimensions, cargo space, and seating configurations with your actual needs. If you regularly use all three rows or carry large items, verify that the electric version meets these requirements.

Charging Infrastructure and At-Home Charging Options

Owning an electric vehicle requires access to charging infrastructure, which varies significantly by location in the United States. As of 2024, there are approximately 50,000 public charging stations in the U.S., with over 150,000 individual charging ports. However, these chargers are not evenly distributed—urban and suburban areas generally have more access, while rural regions may have limited options. Before considering the 2027 Highlander EV, prospective buyers should research the charging landscape in their area using resources like PlugShare, ChargeHub, or the U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center, which map publicly available chargers.

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Home charging is the most convenient option for EV owners and represents a significant advantage for those with dedicated parking. Installing a Level 2 charger at home allows owners to charge overnight, arriving each morning with a full battery. A 240-volt Level 2 charger installation typically costs between $500 and $2,500, depending on existing electrical infrastructure. If your home's electrical panel requires upgrades, costs could exceed this range. Some states and local utilities offer rebates or incentives for charger installation, which can offset these upfront costs. Toyota may also provide installation guidance or partnerships with charging companies to help owners set up home charging.

For those without home charging access—apartment dwellers, for example—public charging becomes