Toyota Highlander 2027: Three-Row Electric Suv With 320 Miles Of Range, Native Nacs, And Pricing Starting At $50 Thousand

The familiar icon has changed! Discover how the new electric TOYOTA HIGHLANDER 2027 delivers 320 miles of range and luxury for 7 passengers now.

The Electric Revolution in Toyota’s Family Icon

The TOYOTA HIGHLANDER 2027 marks the end of an era for one of the Japanese brand’s best-selling SUVs, now reinvented as a 100% electric three-row vehicle. With the Grand Highlander taking the sales lead with hybrid options, this standard model embraces the electric future, promising impressive range and cutting-edge technology for modern families.

This transition is not random: Toyota is responding to the growing demand for spacious EVs, positioning the Highlander against giants like the Rivian R2 2026, which is also targeting over 300 miles of range. Let’s dive into the details that make this launch a game-changer in the mid-to-large electric SUV segment.

Smart Strategy: Why Toyota Bet Big on Electric?

Since 2000, the Toyota Highlander has amassed over 3 million units sold in the US, becoming synonymous with family reliability. But the launch of the Grand Highlander in 2023 changed the game, with sales tripling thanks to its extra size and combustion/hybrid options. Toyota saw the perfect opportunity for differentiation: while the Grand focuses on the traditional, the Highlander 2027 goes pure EV, freeing up production line space and targeting the still underexplored niche of three-row electric SUVs.

This strategic move aligns the brand with global electrification goals, competing directly with the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9. Unlike other Toyota EVs on the e-TNGA platform, the Highlander uses an optimized version of TNGA-K, shared with models like the Camry, which reduces costs and facilitates mass production. Manufactured in Georgetown, Kentucky, with batteries from the new $13.9 billion Gigafactory in North Carolina, it reinforces the “made in USA” commitment, attracting tax incentives and patriotic buyers.

Sales begin in late 2026, with estimated starting prices between US$ 50,000 and US$ 55,000 for the base XLE trim. This makes it affordable compared to premium rivals, especially with native NACS standard, compatible with the Tesla Supercharger network – a huge advantage on long family road trips.

Local Production and Economic Impact

• Assembly: Kentucky Plant, the first for Toyota EVs in the US.
• Batteries: Produced locally, ensuring a resilient supply chain.
• Jobs: Thousands of jobs created, boosting the regional economy.

This approach not only optimizes logistics but demonstrates Toyota’s E-E-A-T in sustainable manufacturing, focusing on battery recycling and eco-friendly materials.

Performance and Specifications: Power for the Whole Family

The electric heart of the 2027 Toyota Highlander varies by trim, prioritizing efficiency and versatility. The base XLE FWD uses a 77 kWh battery for 221 hp and an EPA-estimated 287 miles of range. AWD versions jump to 338 hp and 323 lb-ft of torque, with an optional 95.8 kWh pack for up to 320 miles (515 km) – ideal for road trips without range anxiety.

Charging is another highlight: from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes with 150 kW DC. The major new feature is Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), allowing it to power appliances or campsites – perfect for adventurous families, similar to what we see in models like the Volvo EX60 2027.

In dynamics, AWD provides instant torque distribution for stability in snow or rain, with adaptive suspension balancing comfort and sportiness. 0-60 mph acceleration is around 6 seconds in the top trims, without the noise of combustion engines.

Comparison with Rivals: Where the Highlander Shines

Against the Kia EV9 (300+ miles, but more expensive), the Highlander offers better cost-effectiveness and NACS integration. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 promises similar capabilities, but the TNGA-K platform gives the Toyota superior interior space. For light off-roading, it outperforms EV sedans like the Audi S6 e-tron 2027, rivaling family SUVs like the Honda Pilot 2026.

Exterior Design, Luxurious Interior, and Cutting-Edge Tech

The look of the 2027 Toyota Highlander sheds conservatism: longer (+3.9 inches), wider (+2.3), and with a 120-inch wheelbase – bigger than the current Grand. The “hammerhead” front end with full-width LEDs screams futurism, while squared-off arches and retractable door handles add muscle. A rear with connected taillights and subtle spoilers completes the aggressive-yet-family-friendly package.

Interior? “Sophisticated and distinct,” featuring a multi-layered dashboard, soft-touch materials, and full acoustic glass for absolute silence. The central 14-inch screen runs the new Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system with 5G, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. A 12.3-inch digital cluster and 360° cameras on the Limited trim.

Room for 7: second row offers a bench seat (XLE) or captain’s chairs. Cargo space ranges from 15.9 cu ft (all rows up) to 45.6 cu ft. Comfort features include heated/ventilated seats and a heads-up display.

“The 2027 Highlander redefines the electric family SUV, with space rivaling minivans without sacrificing style.” – Automotive market analysts.

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard: emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, Safe Exit Assist, and traffic jam assist. On the Limited trim, automatic lane changes and a Drive Recorder with multiple cameras are included.

For enthusiasts of premium SUVs, compare it with the Mazda CX-70 2027, but the Highlander has the advantage in three-row capacity. Another close rival is the Subaru Solterra 2026, which focuses on AWD but has less range.

The 2027 Toyota Highlander is not just an EV; it is the perfect bridge between Toyota tradition and electric innovation, ready to conquer American roads and beyond. With local production, accessible tech, and family-friendly performance, it positions the brand as a leader in the fastest-growing segment: everyday electric SUVs.

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