Toyota transforms its well-known three-row SUV into a fully electric model for 2027. Here’s a detailed look at how the new Highlander EV stacks up against the outgoing gasoline and hybrid versions.
⚡ Powertrain: From Turbo and Hybrid to Fully Electric
The biggest change for 2027 is under the hood—or rather, the lack of one.
2026 Highlander (Gas Model)
- 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- 265 horsepower
- 310 lb-ft of torque
- Standard all-wheel drive
- 8-speed automatic transmission
2026 Highlander Hybrid
- 2.5-liter four-cylinder + three electric motors
- Combined 243 horsepower
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
2027 Highlander EV
Toyota drops combustion entirely for the new generation.
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Version
- 221 horsepower
- 198 lb-ft of torque
- 77-kWh battery
- Estimated 270 miles of range
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Versions (XLE & Limited)
- Dual-motor setup
- 338 horsepower
- 323 lb-ft of torque
- 96-kWh battery
- Estimated 320 miles of range
Unlike previous models where AWD came standard, the EV starts with front-wheel drive and offers AWD as an upgrade.
📏 Dimensions: Longer Wheelbase, Different Proportions
The 2027 Highlander EV grows and reshapes itself to fit its new electric architecture.
- Roof Height: 67.3 inches (slightly lower than before)
- Width: 78.3 inches (about 2.3 inches wider)
- Wheelbase: 120.1 inches (extended by 8.1 inches)
- Overall Length: 198.8 inches (2.6 inches shorter than the outgoing model)
Interestingly, while the EV’s wheelbase increases significantly, its overall length shrinks slightly compared to the gas-powered version. It also sits between the standard Highlander and the larger Grand Highlander in size.
🖥️ Interior: More Digital, More Modern
Inside, the EV represents a clear step forward in technology.
2027 Highlander EV Features
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 14.0-inch central touchscreen
- Wireless charging pads
- Multiple USB-C ports
- Abundant cupholders throughout the cabin
The outgoing Highlander’s screens were smaller and less integrated, making the EV feel noticeably more advanced.
📦 Cargo Space: Surprisingly Smaller
Despite the longer wheelbase, cargo capacity decreases in the electric version.
With Third Row in Use
- 2027 EV: 16 cubic feet
- 2026 Model: 23 cubic feet
With Third Row Folded
- 2027 EV: 46 cubic feet
- 2026 Model: 57 cubic feet
Another surprise? There’s no front trunk (frunk). Even though the gasoline engine is gone, Toyota hasn’t added additional storage under the hood.
🔍 The Big Picture
The 2027 Toyota Highlander EV represents a bold shift in strategy. It trades turbocharged and hybrid options for a fully electric lineup, introduces a longer wheelbase and updated proportions, and significantly modernizes the interior.
However, buyers moving from the 2026 model may notice:
- Reduced cargo capacity
- The absence of a frunk
- Front-wheel drive as the new base configuration
For families prioritizing electric range and updated tech, the new Highlander EV makes a compelling case. For those who value maximum cargo space and traditional drivetrains, the outgoing gasoline and hybrid models still hold strong appeal.
The Highlander’s evolution signals Toyota’s broader commitment to electrification—while keeping its popular three-row SUV formula intact.
