by Toyota has delayed production of the new 2027 Highlander even before its official launch. The company states that it needs additional time for final pre-production adjustments. Production of gasoline and hybrid versions of the Highlander will continue until December.
Production Delay and Launch Postponement
Earlier this year, Toyota announced that the next Highlander would be exclusively electric. It was initially planned to launch the model at the end of this year, but production has now been delayed. Toyota told Carscoops that the timeline has shifted without specifying reasons. As a result, American buyers may not see the SUV at dealerships until early 2027.
The automaker reported that a special media event for the SUV’s presentation is being postponed, and new dates have not yet been determined. The delay is needed to “ensure time for final pre-launch adjustments.” Prior to this announcement, Toyota had hinted that the launch would occur by the end of the year.
Duration of the Delay and Possible Reasons
A Toyota representative stated that the delay will last at least eight weeks. Such a two-month pause at this stage is unusual, but not unprecedented. Similar delays occur with new or significantly updated vehicles when manufacturers are completing final quality checks, software refinements, supplier preparations, or production calibrations before series production.
In many cases, manufacturers prefer to postpone a launch rather than rush production and then face quality issues or early recalls.
Toyota did not specify exactly what the “final adjustments” entail, or whether the production delay will affect the planned retail launch of the Highlander.
Impact on Other Models and Company Plans
The company also did not provide an updated production start date. It is currently unknown whether the delay will affect the Subaru Getaway or the Lexus TZ, two other SUVs that use the same platform as the Highlander. We have contacted both companies for further information.
Interestingly, Toyota confirmed to Cars.com that production of the gasoline and hybrid versions of the Highlander will continue until December of this year. The report questions whether Toyota is delaying the electric vehicle launch to generate more profit from gasoline versions. Either way, the brand has confirmed its intention to transition to an EV-only platform in the near future.
Continuation of Gas Version Production
The decision to continue producing gasoline and hybrid Highlanders until December raises questions about Toyota’s strategy. This may indicate that the company is in no hurry to fully transition to electric vehicles, especially in a segment where demand for traditional engines remains high. The delay of the electric version could be related not only to technical issues but also to a desire to maximize profit from current models that do not require additional investment in new technologies. At the same time, Toyota’s commitment to transitioning to an EV platform points to a long-term goal, although the timeline for its implementation may be adjusted depending on market conditions and technological readiness.
