by Toyota’s Mysterious Teaser Finally Gains Visible Contours
The Japanese automaker Toyota has published a mysterious teaser with the caption “Something New on the Horizon,” which finally allows us to discern the shape of the upcoming novelty. It is a large vehicle. Although the company is still hiding official details, all available evidence points to the already announced three-row electric SUV, production of which is set to begin in Kentucky this year.
Several years ago, Toyota clearly indicated it was preparing a whole wave of 15 new models, which at the time were planned as electric. In 2023, the company confirmed that a large three-row electric SUV is part of this plan. Many are confident that this is exactly what they have shown us.
Concept Car and Patent Images as Key Evidence
The model is expected to be based on the bZ Large SUV concept presented back in 2021. At the time, the brand called it the bZ5x and stated that production would begin in the USA. If we compare patent photos of that concept, particularly the rear end, which was not shown in 2021, with the new teaser, the similarity is obvious.
The body lines, the LED strip of the rear lights, and the overall proportions – everything matches.
Toyota has not confirmed the model name, and this makes the situation more interesting. The company is gradually moving away from actively using the “bZ” branding, while simultaneously signaling a broader reboot of its electric strategy.
Production Plans and Possible Names
Toyota has already confirmed plans to produce a three-row electric SUV in the USA. The vehicle will be built in Kentucky, and batteries will be supplied from the company’s plant in North Carolina. In automotive circles, the model is already widely referred to as the bZ5X, although Toyota itself has not officially confirmed this name. This is expected to change very soon.
There is a possibility that the novelty will receive a name already familiar to buyers, such as Highlander. Using a well-known name, possibly with a prefix like bZ Highlander, could prove to be a smart move. It’s a name that customers already trust. As Ford’s experience with the Mustang Mach-E has shown, familiar branding can significantly ease the launch of a new electric vehicle onto the market.
Place in the Model Lineup and Prospects
Toyota already has the Grand Highlander, so transforming the original Highlander version into an electric model could be a clever move to keep both cars in the lineup with their unique characteristics, especially since the extended ICE version currently clearly has better sales.
Of course, the model could receive a completely different name: bZ5x, Grand Crown, or even bZ Highlander GR Sport. Most likely, all details will become known next month in California. Production of the vehicle is expected to begin in the first half of 2026.
The appearance of such a car could become a key moment for Toyota’s electric strategy in the American market, where three-row SUVs traditionally enjoy huge demand. The success of this model will depend not only on a familiar name but also on technical characteristics, driving range, and competitive pricing, as the electric SUV market is becoming increasingly fierce.
