2027 Toyota Highlander: 511 km of All-Electric Range for Canadian Families

The shift to electric vehicles continues to reshape the three-row SUV segment, and Toyota's latest entry addresses one of the most common concerns among Canadian families: range. The 2027 Toyota Highlander arrives as Toyota's first all-electric three-row SUV in North America, offering up to 511 km of manufacturer-estimated driving range on a single charge. For families in New Brunswick who need space, capability, and the confidence to travel beyond city limits, this new Highlander marks a substantial step forward in electric SUV design.

Beyond its notable range rating, the 2027 Highlander comes equipped with the North American Charging System (NACS) port, providing access to thousands of DC fast-charging stations across Canada. With seating for up to seven passengers, 1,290 litres of cargo space behind the second row, and available all-wheel drive with Multi-Terrain Select, this electric SUV aims to satisfy the practical demands of family life while eliminating trips to the gas station.

Battery Options and Range Ratings

The 2027 Highlander lineup offers two battery sizes across five grade configurations, allowing families to choose the range that best fits their driving patterns. The XLE FWD model features a 77.0-kWh battery with a manufacturer-estimated 458-km total driving range rating. Upgrading to the XLE AWD with the same 77.0-kWh battery delivers a 431-km range rating, while opting for the larger 95.8-kWh battery in the XLE AWD extends range to 511 km.

The XLE Premium AWD and Limited AWD grades come standard with the 95.8-kWh battery, both achieving a manufacturer-estimated 473-km total driving range rating. All range estimates are based on 100% charge in temperatures between 20-30 degrees Celsius. Actual range will vary depending on weather conditions, driving habits, and terrain - factors particularly relevant for Canadian drivers who experience seasonal temperature swings.

The NACS charging port provides compatibility with Level 3 DC fast-charging stations nationwide, addressing one of the key barriers to EV adoption: charging infrastructure access. Each Highlander also includes an 11-kW onboard AC charger and a 120V/240V dual-voltage charging cable for home charging convenience.

Power and Performance

The 2027 Highlander delivers 338 combined system horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque in AWD configurations, providing confident acceleration and highway merging capability. The XLE FWD model produces 221 net combined system horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque, offering a more efficient option for primarily urban driving.

AWD-equipped models include Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control, features typically associated with Toyota's off-road-capable vehicles. These systems enhance traction on unpaved roads, gravel driveways, and winter conditions.

Towing capacity reaches 1,587 kg (3,500 lbs) on AWD models equipped with the 95.8-kWh battery, while the 77.0-kWh AWD configuration offers 1,179 kg (2,600 lbs) of towing capacity. Paddle shifters with regenerative braking allow drivers to adjust energy recovery levels, helping to extend range and reduce brake wear during highway and city driving.

Interior Space and Technology

The 2027 Highlander seats up to seven passengers across three rows, with XLE AWD and XLE Premium AWD offering second-row captain's chairs for six-passenger seating. All second-row configurations feature one-touch fold functionality for easy access to the third row. With the third row folded flat, cargo volume expands to 1,290 litres - enough space for camping gear, sports equipment, or a full week's worth of groceries.

Technology features include a 14-inch touchscreen with Toyota Multimedia and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, both standard across the lineup. The XLE Premium and Limited grades add a JBL Premium Audio System with 11 speakers, subwoofer, and amplifier. Limited models also include a Head Up Display (HUD) for key driving information projected onto the windshield.

All grades feature 64-colour customizable ambient lighting, SofTex-trimmed seating, and heated front seats with a heated steering wheel. Limited models add ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats for enhanced comfort during long drives.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2027 Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0), the latest version of Toyota's suite of active safety technologies. Standard features across all grades include:

• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) with direct pressure read-out and individual tire location alert
• Hill Start Assist Control
• Drive recorder
• Rear seat reminder system
• Backup camera with dynamic gridlines

The Limited grade adds Advanced Park, Traffic Jam Assist (requires active Drive Connect trial or paid subscription), Panoramic View Monitor, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross Traffic Alert. These advanced features provide additional assistance during parking manoeuvres, highway driving, and low-speed traffic situations.

Vehicle-to-Load Capability

One practical feature that sets the 2027 Highlander apart is Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, which allows the SUV to power external devices or serve as a backup power source during emergencies. Purchase of bi-directional accessories is required to use this feature. For families in New Brunswick who experience occasional power outages or enjoy camping and outdoor activities, this capability transforms the Highlander into a mobile power station.

Five Grade Levels

The 2027 Highlander is available in five configurations:

• XLE FWD: Front-wheel drive, 77.0-kWh battery, 19-inch wheels, 6-passenger seating
• XLE AWD: All-wheel drive, choice of 77.0-kWh or 95.8-kWh battery, 7-passenger seating, Multi-Terrain Select
• XLE Premium AWD: 95.8-kWh battery, 22-inch alloy wheels, fixed panoramic moonroof, JBL Premium Audio, 6-passenger seating
• Limited AWD: Adds Head Up Display, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, Advanced Park, Traffic Jam Assist, Panoramic View Monitor

All grades include smart key with push-button start, semi-flush electronic door handles, and front acoustic glass for reduced cabin noise.

Key Takeaways

Arrival Timeline

The 2027 Toyota Highlander is expected to go on sale in late 2026, continuing into early 2027. The vehicle will be assembled at Toyota's manufacturing facility in Georgetown, Kentucky, with batteries sourced from Toyota's battery assembly plant in Liberty, North Carolina and a supplier partner.

Learn More at Acadia Toyota

The 2027 Toyota Highlander addresses the real-world needs of Canadian families considering their first EV. With up to 511 km of range, seating for seven, and access to thousands of fast-charging stations via the NACS port, this electric SUV maintains the practicality families expect from the Highlander nameplate. Visit our team at Acadia Toyota to learn more about the upcoming 2027 Highlander and how it fits into Toyota's growing lineup of electrified vehicles.