by Toyota Confirms the Return of the Highlander in a New Form
The Japanese automaker Toyota has officially announced the return of the Highlander model, which will receive a completely new embodiment. This is a full-fledged electric SUV with three rows of seats, scheduled for launch as a 2027 model year vehicle.
Key details known so far:
What Do the Teasers Reveal?
The latest video teaser, although not showing the car in full, provides specific confirmations. In the short clip, one can clearly see the logos: the name “Highlander,” the “BEV” badge (confirming the electric nature of the model), and the all-wheel drive “AWD” emblem. This means we are looking at a dual-motor electric SUV.
Previous teasers had already hinted at the shape of the rear end and an interior view from the third row of seats, which correlates with today’s announcements.
Connection with the Concept and Rebranding
Earlier, information about a concept called the bZ5x appeared online. New renderings and available data suggest that this very concept has transformed into the new Highlander. Interestingly, the company has abandoned the use of the “bZ” and “BZ” naming lineup in favor of a recognizable name.
This trend is also observed among other manufacturers. For example, Volkswagen is also returning familiar names like Polo and Tiguan for its future electric vehicles.
Why Highlander, Not a New Name?
After the not-so-successful launch of the bZ4X model, Toyota conducted a rebranding, simplifying the name to “BZ,” which it planned to use for future models, such as the BZ Woodland. However, it seems the power of recognition prevailed.
It is much easier to sell customers something they are already familiar with, like the Highlander name, than to build interest around a completely new name, even if the product itself has little in common with the original.
A full disclosure of all details of the new Toyota Highlander will take place soon. After the premiere, complete information, photos, and video materials related to one of Toyota’s most important new SUV models in recent years are expected to become available.
The transition to electric power for such an iconic and popular model in the family segment as the Highlander is an important step for Toyota. This demonstrates the brand’s serious intentions in electrifying not only compact but also large, practical cars. The success of this model could significantly influence the perception of electric SUVs by buyers looking for a spacious and reliable family car but with a modern environmental approach. Competition in the segment of electric three-row SUVs is intensifying, and choosing a recognizable name is a smart marketing move to attract an existing audience.
