Toyota enters seven-seat electric SUV segment with 2027 Highlander BEV

Toyota has unveiled the 2027 Highlander, its first three-row battery-electric SUV. This model marks a significant milestone for Toyota, which entered the market for fully electric vehicles relatively late compared to many of its rivals.

Measuring over five metres in length and riding on a three-metre wheelbase, the new Highlander BEV is a large vehicle. It seats up to seven passengers and offers up to 45 cubic feet of cargo space behind the folded third row. Buyers can choose between 77 kWh and 95.8 kWh battery packs, with the largest version offering an estimated range of up to 320 miles.

Unlike the dedicated e-TNGA electric platform used for the bZ4X, the Highlander BEV is built on a modified version of the TNGA-K architecture shared with petrol models. It will be assembled at Toyota's plant in Georgetown, Kentucky, with battery modules produced at the company's new facility in North Carolina.

The Highlander BEV features a NACS charging port, enabling access to Tesla's Supercharger network, and includes vehicle-to-load technology that can power external devices. Two trim levels will be available, with sales expected to begin in late 2026.

While Toyota has confirmed the US launch, it remains unclear whether this electric seven-seater will be sold in Europe or the UK, where the current Toyota EV line-up consists of smaller models such as the Urban Cruiser and bZ4X. The previous petrol-powered Highlander was briefly sold in Europe before being withdrawn.