2027 Toyota Highlander Release Date Guide – The 2027 Toyota Highlander marks a major shift for one of America’s most popular three-row family SUVs. For the first time, the Highlander nameplate goes fully electric, dropping gas and hybrid powertrains entirely. Built in the United States and aimed at U.S. buyers seeking practical EV range and space, this fifth-generation model was originally expected sooner but has faced production adjustments. Here’s the latest on its release timeline, based on official Toyota announcements and recent reports from reputable automotive sources.
Expected 2027 Toyota Highlander Release Date
Toyota originally planned for the all-new 2027 Highlander EV to go on sale in late 2026, with production starting earlier that year at its Georgetown, Kentucky plant. In July 2026, the company confirmed a delay of at least eight weeks for “final adjustments prior to launch.” This pushed the expected on-sale window into early 2027.
Subsequent reports in September 2026 from sources including Nikkei Asia suggested a possible further delay, potentially to mid- or late 2027 or beyond. Toyota’s U.S. representatives have denied a second major postponement, stating the timeline remains aligned with the July update targeting an early 2027 launch. Production of the current 2026 gas and hybrid Highlanders continues through at least December 2026, so inventory of those models should remain available well into 2027.
As of the latest available information, expect the 2027 Highlander EV to begin reaching U.S. dealerships in the first half of 2027, most likely early in the year, depending on how the final adjustments progress. Pricing has not been announced and will be revealed closer to launch; early estimates place it starting around the mid-$50,000s to near $60,000 range to compete with rivals.
Key Features of the All-New 2027 Highlander EV
The 2027 Highlander is Toyota’s first three-row battery-electric vehicle for the U.S. market and its first EV assembled in America. Key highlights include:
- All-electric powertrain only (no gas or hybrid options; those continue on the larger Grand Highlander).
- Two battery sizes: 77.0-kWh and 95.8-kWh.
- Front-wheel-drive models deliver 221 horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque with an estimated 287 miles of range (77-kWh battery).
- All-wheel-drive models produce up to 338 combined horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque, with estimated range up to 320 miles on the larger battery.
- North American Charging Standard (NACS) port for access to Tesla Superchargers and other networks; estimated 10-80% charge in about 30 minutes under ideal conditions with battery preconditioning.
- Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, a first for a Toyota sold in the U.S., allowing the SUV to power external devices or serve as a home backup (accessories required).
- Seating for up to seven (second-row captain’s chairs standard; bench available on select XLE AWD models).
- Longer wheelbase than the prior generation for improved legroom across all rows.
- Available fixed panoramic glass roof (largest in the Toyota lineup) and modern interior with a 14-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, customizable ambient lighting, and extensive USB-C and wireless charging options.
It is offered in two trims at launch: XLE (available FWD or AWD) and Limited (AWD only with the larger battery standard).
Production and U.S. Assembly Details
Production occurs at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky in Georgetown. Batteries are assembled in the U.S. at Toyota’s plant in Liberty, North Carolina, supporting local content and potential eligibility for federal EV incentives where applicable. This U.S.-built status is a key selling point for American buyers.
The current-generation Highlander (gas and hybrid) production runs through the end of 2026, ensuring continuity for shoppers not ready for an EV.
How the 2027 Highlander Compares to Rivals?
The Highlander EV enters a small but growing segment of mainstream three-row electric SUVs. Primary competitors include the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9, both of which currently start under $60,000 and offer competitive or higher range figures in testing. Toyota positions the Highlander with strong standard equipment, U.S. assembly, Toyota’s reputation for reliability, and family-focused practicality. Real-world range, pricing, and charging performance will determine how it stacks up once independent testing begins after launch.
What U.S. Buyers Should Know Right Now?
- Contact local Toyota dealers for the latest availability updates and to express interest; allocations may be limited at first.
- Current 2026 Highlander gas and hybrid models remain a strong option while waiting, with continued production and dealer stock expected into 2027.
- If you need gas or hybrid power, consider the Grand Highlander, which continues those options.
- Watch for official pricing, final EPA range ratings, and incentive eligibility announcements closer to the on-sale date.
- Toyota Safety Sense advanced driver aids and the latest multimedia system are expected as standard or widely available.
The 2027 Toyota Highlander represents Toyota’s boldest step yet into family-oriented electric vehicles for the U.S. market. While the exact arrival month may still shift slightly based on production progress, the vehicle is firmly targeted for 2027 availability. Check Toyota’s official site and trusted sources such as Car and Driver, Edmunds, and Cars.com for ongoing updates as more details emerge.