Toyota’s recent run of teasers had everyone guessing whether we were looking at a brand-new three-row SUV or a direct replacement for the Highlander. Now we have the missing puzzle piece. A fresh teaser video effectively confirms the 2027 Toyota Highlander will be fully electric, and it looks like the “mystery” family hauler we covered is actually the next chapter of the Highlander story, not a separate model. That lines up perfectly with what Toyota’s been hinting at in its slow drip campaign leading up to the reveal on February 10, including the three-row focus we talked about and the blockier, more SUV-like stance that had Land Cruiser and 4Runner vibes written all over it.
The new clip is short but pretty telling. Toyota shows the Highlander badge on a redesigned liftgate along with BEV and AWD badging, which is about as close to an official confirmation as you can get without the full press deck. Toyota also added a straightforward statement that calls it the “all-new 2027 Highlander,” promising sleek modern lines, an electric powertrain, and a spacious three-row cabin. The bigger twist is the naming approach. Toyota is not calling it “Highlander EV,” it’s just Highlander, which immediately raises questions about what happens to the current gas and hybrid versions and whether they continue alongside this new battery-electric model.
This move also feels like a notable shift in Toyota’s long-running EV caution. The brand has been happy to dominate with hybrids while other automakers sprinted toward full electrification, so putting the Highlander name on a three-row BEV is a pretty loud statement. It’s also interesting that the design cues we’ve seen so far point toward a more squared-off shape, which could be Toyota’s way of giving the Highlander a tougher, more purposeful look as it enters a more competitive electric SUV space. Between families cross-shopping practicality and buyers who want a little more visual attitude, a boxier Highlander could land right in the sweet spot.
We’ll get the full picture at the official reveal scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET on February 10, and that’s when the real questions should finally be answered, like range expectations, platform details, charging info, trims, and where pricing might land. For now, Toyota’s teaser strategy has done its job: the three-row “mystery SUV” and that blocky silhouette we covered now connect directly to a nameplate people already know. If Toyota nails the packaging and delivers the right mix of range, value, and everyday usability, the 2027 Highlander going electric could be the moment the company’s EV approach starts feeling a lot less tentative.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
