The 2027 Toyota Highlander EV: A Seven-Seat SUV with a Twist
The automotive world is abuzz with the news of Toyota's latest electric vehicle (EV) unveiling: the 2027 Highlander. This seven-seat SUV is set to revolutionize the market, but there's a catch. While it's making waves in the US, it's not headed Down Under. Here's the scoop on this game-changer.
An Electric Evolution
The Toyota Kluger, a familiar sight in Australian households, is getting an electric makeover. The 2027 Highlander is its US-born sibling, designed to compete with the likes of the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9. But why the exclusive focus on the US market? Toyota Australia has confirmed there are no immediate plans to bring this EV to our shores.
A New Generation, A New Home
The Highlander is set to replace the existing hybrid and turbo-petrol Kluger model in the US. It will be sold alongside the popular Grand Highlander, indicating a strategic shift in Toyota's lineup. This move highlights the brand's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle offerings.
A Modified Architecture, A Hybrid Future?
Toyota has revealed that the 2027 Highlander is built on a modified version of its TNGA-K architecture, not the e-TNGA electric-car platform. This opens up possibilities for future hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions, keeping Toyota's options open.
Power and Range
The Highlander offers two driving modes: front-wheel drive with a single electric motor (165kW and 268Nm) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (241kW and 437Nm). The 77kWh and 95.8kWh battery packs provide an impressive range of 462 to 515 kilometers on the US EPA cycle, matching the current hybrid model's towing capacity.
Design and Features
The 2027 Highlander showcases Toyota's 'hammerhead' design language, with a bold and modern aesthetic. It features separated headlights, flush door handles, full-width LED tail-lights, and 19- to 22-inch alloy wheels. Inside, it boasts a 14-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a host of comfort and convenience features, including heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic glass roof, and a head-up display.
Safety and Connectivity
Toyota's latest-generation 'Safety Sense 4.0' active safety features are standard, ensuring a secure driving experience. The Highlander also includes wireless smartphone charging, USB-C ports, a 5G data connection, and a built-in dashcam, making it a tech-savvy choice.
When and Where?
The 2027 Toyota Highlander EV is set to arrive in US dealerships towards the end of this year, with pricing details to be announced. While it's a US-exclusive launch, the automotive world eagerly awaits its potential future in other markets.
Subaru's Electric Counterpart
Subaru is also expected to unveil an electric SUV equivalent to the Highlander in the US later this year. However, like its petrol-powered sibling, it's unlikely to make its way to Australia, leaving us with a unique situation in the local market.
