Like a familiar mountain reshaped by shifting winds, a known nameplate rises again—this time powered by silence instead of fuel.
Highlander Goes Electric
After weeks of teasers revealing a sleek lightbar-style taillamp and glimpses of a three-row cabin, Toyota has confirmed that its mystery SUV is the 2026 iteration of the Toyota Highlander—now arriving as a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) with all-wheel drive (AWD). The electric Highlander will debut first in the United States and feature a substantially refreshed design, distancing itself from the outgoing model that had begun to feel dated.
The Highlander BEV represents another iconic Toyota badge transitioning into an electrified era. In November 2025, the company unveiled the all-electric Toyota Hilux BEV alongside the next-generation ICE-powered Hilux, signaling a dual-path strategy. Whether Toyota will mirror that approach for the 2027 Highlander—offering both electric and combustion variants—remains to be seen.
While full specifications are yet to be disclosed, expectations suggest that alongside the fully electric version, Toyota may continue offering petrol or strong-hybrid alternatives to broaden market appeal, as seen in the previous generation.
Tech-Forward Cabin, Limited India Odds
Inside, the new Highlander embraces a modern layout. Confirmed features include a digital driver display and a central infotainment touchscreen, along with dual-zone climate control. The three-row configuration continues, with captain seats in the second row. Teaser visuals also reveal a panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting across the dashboard and door panels, enhancing the premium quotient of the electric SUV.
As for India, prospects appear slim. Historically, Toyota has not introduced the Highlander lineup in the domestic market. Previous speculation ultimately led to the launch of the locally produced Toyota Innova Hycross instead.
Globally, however, the Highlander BEV underscores Toyota’s accelerating electric transition across its portfolio. In India, the company has already initiated its EV journey with the unveiling of the Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella, hinting that more all-electric derivatives could follow.
As the Highlander trades combustion for current, Toyota charts a quieter yet bolder climb toward its electric horizon.
Summary
Toyota has confirmed that its teased SUV is the 2026 Highlander BEV with all-wheel drive, debuting in the US. Featuring a redesigned exterior and tech-rich three-row cabin, it marks another major electrification step after the Hilux BEV. India launch seems unlikely, though Toyota’s broader EV push continues globally and domestically.
