The 2027 Toyota Highlander is poised for a significant transformation, embracing an all-electric powertrain and a radical new design to emerge from the shadow of its larger sibling, the Grand Highlander, and the popular RAV4. This bold move positions the Highlander as a rebellious 'middle child' in Toyota's SUV lineup, signaling a new direction for the venerable three-row family hauler.

Its styling marks an obvious and dramatic departure from previous generations. The new 2027 Toyota Highlander features a distinctive grilleless face, reminiscent of the upcoming bZ Woodland, with which it also shares a low-profile, full-width taillight design. The tailgate is uniquely unadorned, while its side sculpting bears some resemblance to the contemporary Land Cruiser. Proportions have also been altered; the new Highlander is nearly four inches longer, and its wheelbase is stretched by 8.1 inches to accommodate the battery pack, resulting in a shorter, RAV4-like rear overhang. It also gains 2.3 inches in width and loses 0.8 inches in height, with an optional two-tone paint job further emphasizing its length.

Inside, the Highlander promises a much-improved experience. The dashboard styling takes cues from the new RAV4, featuring a 12.3-inch display for the driver and a substantial 14.0-inch center screen, alongside a reduced number of physical buttons. Dual side-by-side phone chargers, similar to those found in the bZ models, are present but integrated without sacrificing space due to the cabin's increased width. A large, purse-friendly open storage pod sits beneath them, complemented by an abundance of USB ports throughout the cabin. For seating, the XLE trim offers a choice of bench or bucket seats in the second row, while the Limited comes standard with captain’s chairs. A third-row seat remains standard across all models.

The Highlander will benefit from an updated version of Toyota’s multimedia system, which has been lauded as a significant improvement over previous iterations. This advanced infotainment system includes 5G network connectivity and a Drive Recorder function, providing integrated dashcam capabilities using the Highlander’s built-in cameras.

Significantly, the 2027 Highlander goes electric-only. The front-wheel-drive version, exclusive to the XLE trim, delivers 221 horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel-drive models feature a dual-motor setup, providing a combined 338 horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque. Battery options include a standard 77.0-kWh unit for the XLE, projected to offer an EPA range of 287 miles for the single-motor variant and 270 miles for the dual-motor. An optional 95.8-kWh battery, available on the XLE AWD and standard on the Limited (which is exclusively dual-motor), is expected to provide an impressive 320 miles of range.

For charging, the Highlander will feature the Tesla-style NACS port and include battery preconditioning, which can be activated manually or via the navigation system. Toyota estimates a fast-charging time of 30 minutes to go from 10 to 80 percent, irrespective of battery size, a competitive figure compared to rivals like the Kia EV9. For home charging, a complete Level 2 charge is estimated to take a little over seven hours with the smaller battery and just over eight hours with the larger one. Furthermore, the Highlander will offer Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing its battery to power external devices or even a house.

While not a dedicated rock-crawler, all-wheel-drive models will incorporate Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select system and crawl control, hinting at respectable soft-roader capabilities. Although towing capacity details were not disclosed, the presence of a hitch receiver and what appears to be a four-pin connector suggests it will be equipped to tow lighter trailers and accommodate hitch-mounted accessories.

Pricing for the 2027 Highlander has yet to be announced, but the decision to skip lower trims and start with the XLE suggests it will be positioned as a premium offering, potentially closer to the Kia EV9's estimated high-$50,000 base price than the Grand Highlander's low-$40,000 range. Standard equipment on the XLE includes SofTex upholstery, a six-speaker audio system, heated front seats, 19-inch wheels, and 64-color ambient lighting. The Limited trim further enhances luxury with cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, a head-up display, rear sunshades, and more advanced driver-assistance features. Optional upgrades include a panoramic roof, an 11-speaker stereo, and 22-inch wheels.

Toyota’s strategic move to convert the Highlander to an all-electric platform is considered a smart one, aligning with the growing demand for large electric SUVs as practical family vehicles. Built on U.S. soil, with both the vehicle and its battery made in America, the 2027 Highlander offers a compelling alternative for consumers who value the smooth power delivery and lower running costs of an electric SUV. For those requiring more space or preferring traditional powertrains, the Grand Highlander remains available with conventional and hybrid options. The 2027 Toyota Highlander is poised to be a useful and significant addition to the electric SUV market, though it may take time to rival the Grand Highlander's current popularity.

2027 Toyota Highlander Key Specifications (Estimated):BASE PRICE: $58,000LAYOUT: Front- or front-/rear-motor, FWD or AWD, 6-7 pass, 4-door SUVMOTOR: 221-hp/198-lb-ft electric or dual electric, 338 hp/323 lb-ft combinedTRANSMISSION: 1-speed directCURB WEIGHT: 5,500 lbWHEELBASE: 120.1 inL x W x H: 198.8 x 78.3 x 67.3 in0–60 MPH: 5.5-8.5 secEPA RANGE, COMB: 270-320 miON SALE: Late 2026