The fifth and latest generation of Toyota’s Highlander SUV has debuted in the U.S. as a fully electric crossover with no option for an internal combustion engine. The production is localized in Kentucky.
The full-size three-row SUV received an exterior update that made it look like Toyota’s bZ-series EVs. Similarities include headlights and taillights, which are interconnected with LED strips, and a drag-reducing polished trim where the radiator grille usually is.
The body now measures 5,050 mm (197.3 inches) long and the wheelbase spans 3,050 mm (119.1 inches). That’s 99 mm (3.9 inches) longer than the fourth generation with 201 mm (7.9 inches) of added interaxle space.
Trim-wise, the new Highlander features a 12.3-inch digital dashboard, a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, handy USB charging ports for all three rows and a record-large panoramic roof – by Toyota’s standards, at least. Drivers take advantage of the latest Safety Sense assists, and paying extra gets you a JBL Premium audio system. Same goes for ventilated seats and 22-inch wheels (the standard ones are 19 inches large).
In its most affordable U.S. spec, the Highlander uses just one electric motor with 221 PS (218 hp / 163 kW). The top spec gets a second motor and 338 PS (333 hp / 250 kW) total. There are two battery sizes to choose from, the larger 958-kWh pack yielding up to 515 kilometers (320 miles) per charge.
First deliveries are scheduled for late 2026.
