2027 Toyota Highlander: Toyota’s Three-Row SUV Enters the Electric Era

The 2027 Toyota Highlander marks a pivotal moment for one of the brand’s most recognized family nameplates. Reimagined from the ground up, the new Highlander transitions to a fully electric powertrain, pairing head-turning design with elevated comfort and modern technology. It also becomes Toyota’s first three-row battery electric vehicle in North America and the fourth BEV in the company’s lineup.

For Canadian families who have long appreciated the Highlander’s practicality and space, the 2027 model brings those same priorities into an all-electric future.

All-Electric Power and Confident Performance

The 2027 Highlander is offered in XLE, XLE Premium and Limited grades, with buyers able to choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. At the top of the performance discussion is the XLE AWD variant equipped with a 95.8-kWh battery pack. This configuration delivers a manufacturer-estimated driving range of up to 511 kilometres, positioning the Highlander as a serious option for longer intercity travel without frequent charging stops.

Power output reaches up to 338 combined system horsepower and 323 lb.-ft. of torque in dual-motor AWD models, ensuring brisk acceleration and confident highway merging despite the vehicle’s size. As expected from a modern electric SUV, torque is delivered instantly, enhancing responsiveness in urban driving.

The new Highlander is equipped with a North American Charging System (NACS) port, expanding access to DC fast-charging stations across the continent. Under appropriate conditions, this wide compatibility helps reduce range anxiety and simplifies long-distance travel planning.

Practical Space for Growing Families

Space remains central to the Highlander formula. The three-row cabin accommodates up to seven passengers, making it suitable for families who require versatility beyond a five-seat configuration. With the third row folded flat, rear cargo capacity reaches 1,290 litres, offering ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or weekend getaways.

Toyota has also integrated Vehicle-to-Load capability, allowing the Highlander to power external devices or even serve as a backup energy source in emergencies when equipped with the appropriate bi-directional accessories. Whether powering tools at a campsite or supporting essential appliances during a power outage, this feature broadens the SUV’s role beyond simple transportation.

Elevated Comfort and Technology

Inside, the 2027 Highlander introduces the latest generation of Toyota Multimedia. A large central display anchors the dashboard, providing wireless smartphone integration, navigation, and cloud-connected features. A digital instrument cluster delivers key driving information in a clear, configurable layout.

Toyota Safety Sense is also standard, incorporating a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies. Advanced pre-collision systems, lane management support and adaptive cruise functionality are designed to enhance confidence on highways and in busy urban environments.

Material quality and cabin refinement have been elevated, reflecting the Highlander’s positioning as a premium family-oriented SUV.

A New Chapter for a Familiar Name

With its shift to a fully electric platform, generous driving range and three-row practicality, the 2027 Highlander signals a meaningful evolution for Toyota’s SUV lineup. For buyers seeking family space without sacrificing performance or charging access, the new Highlander presents a compelling, forward-looking option.