Toyota’s much‑teased mystery SUV that’s been generating buzz ahead of its official unveiling has now been confirmed to carry the Highlander nameplate — and will debut as an all‑electric, three‑row SUV for the 2027 model year. This marks a major shift in Toyota’s strategy as it transitions one of its flagship SUVs into the electric era.

Highlander Goes Fully Electric

Toyota has officially revealed that its upcoming mystery SUV will be called the 2027 toyota Highlander, but this time as a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). The company has been dropping teaser images and videos in the weeks leading up to the full reveal, and in the latest teaser toyota showcased the “Highlander” badge alongside “BEV” and “AWD” markings — clearly indicating its electric drivetrain and all‑wheel‑drive capability.

This will be Toyota’s first fully electric three‑row SUV in key markets such as the United States and Canada, positioning the EV Highlander as one of the brand’s largest electrified offerings.

What We Know So Far

➤ Electric Powertrain Foundation

Although detailed specifications like battery capacity, driving range and power outputs haven’t been released yet, the badges and official teaser confirm this version will use a battery‑electric powertrain with all‑wheel drive — likely with dual motors.

➤ Three‑Row Cabin for Families

Toyota has also teased the interior, showing a three‑row seating layout with modern design elements such as second‑row captain’s chairs and a panoramic glass roof — a strong indication that the new Highlander EV is being positioned as a family‑friendly electric SUV.

➤ Distinct Identity from Past Hybrids

Unlike earlier Highlander models known for gasoline and hybrid powertrains, this all‑electric version represents a clear new chapter in the nameplate’s evolution. toyota appears to be banking on the strong recognition of the Highlander name to help ease transition to EVs for buyers.

Why the Name Matters

Using the Highlander name for this electric SUV — rather than a separate EV‑only designation — is notable for several reasons:

• Brand Familiarity: The Highlander name is well‑established globally as a reliable middata-size SUV, giving toyota EV efforts a strong legacy boost.
• Signaling EV Commitment: toyota has historically been cautious with pure EVs compared to rivals, but attaching an iconic name to a BEV reflects a bigger push into electric vehicles.
• Segment Positioning: With three rows and an electric drivetrain, the new Highlander EV will compete with other large electric SUVs like the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 — vehicles that are gaining traction in markets hungry for family‑oriented EVs.

Launch Timeline & Official Reveal

Toyota has scheduled a formal full‑reveal event for February 10, 2026, where the company will share complete details including specs, interior features, pricing and availability information.

Expected Market Impact

Industry observers view the Highlander EV as a key piece in Toyota’s electric transition strategy:

✔ It fills a gap above Toyota’s smaller EVs (such as the bZ series) by offering family‑friendly space.
✔ The electric Highlander could help toyota compete more directly against rival electric SUVs from hyundai, Kia and others.
✔ Leveraging an existing popular nameplate may help ease buyer adoption of Toyota’s larger BEVs.

Exact details on range, performance and pricing will be unveiled at the official launch, but the teasers so far suggest toyota is aiming to combine practical everyday usability with EV technology and roominess that SUV shoppers expect.

Looking Ahead

Toyota’s reveal of the 2027 Highlander EV is being closely watched by EV buyers and industry analysts alike. With full details set to come in early February 2026, toyota is positioned to challenge competitors in the expanding large‑electric‑SUV segment while keeping trust in traditional nameplates alive in the age of electrification.

 

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