The Toyota Highlander is delayed: the brand wants the launch to be perfect and error-free

Toyota has delayed the launch of the new electric Highlander in the United States. Although its arrival at dealerships was scheduled for the fourth quarter of this year, production has been postponed until at least the first quarter of 2027. Apparently, this delay is due to the need to make a series of unspecified improvements before it goes on sale.

The electric Toyota Highlander is 5.05 meters long, 1.99 meters wide, and 1.71 meters high, with a wheelbase of 3.05 meters. It is built on an adapted version of the RAV4’s TNGA-K platform rather than the eTNGA platform used in the C-HR+ and bZ4X. Therefore, it is based on a modified conventional platform.

Its range consists of three mechanical options. The base model features front-wheel drive and combines a 224 HP engine with a 77 kWh battery, providing an EPA range of 462 km. The mid-tier version uses the same battery but adds a second engine on the rear axle, offering all-wheel drive and 343 HP. Its EPA range is 435 km.

The top-of-the-line model comes equipped with a larger battery (95.8 kWh) that increases its range to 515 km per EPA estimates. Regarding charging, the car is said to be able to go from 10% to 80% charge in about 30 minutes; thus, it is assumed to use a 400-volt electrical architecture, even though some competitors (mentioned below) have already switched to 800 volts.

Will the electric Toyota Highlander arrive in Europe?

As of now, it has not been confirmed whether this model will enter the European market; if it does, it would be a direct competitor to the Hyundai IONIQ 9, KIA EV9, and Skoda Peaq, with the first two featuring 800-volt systems. The Highlander comes standard with a six-seater layout (2+2+2), though an option for a split bench in the second row is available, increasing seating capacity to seven.

The dashboard features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. Additionally, the vehicle comes equipped with V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) reverse charging capability as well as the Plug & Charge system, which automates the validation and payment process at compatible public charging stations.

There are two trims available: XLE and Limited. The XLE trim includes 19-inch wheels, heated steering wheel and front seats, as well as 64-color ambient lighting, while the Limited trim adds a head-up display, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a 360-degree camera, and lane change assist.

Source | Automotive News