Toyota has postponed the launch of its three-row electric Highlander SUV, which was originally scheduled to begin production this month at the company's facility in Georgetown, Kentucky. The vehicle, now expected to debut as a 2028 model, will not enter production until at least the first quarter of 2027.
The company will continue manufacturing the current gas and hybrid 2026 Highlander models through December. However, suppliers are working toward a fixed volume, making it unlikely that production will be extended. As of September 10, Toyota dealers reported a 20-day supply of the current Highlander models nationwide.
The upcoming electric Highlander will feature two battery options, 77 kWh and 95.8 kWh, offering ranges of up to 287 miles and 320 miles respectively. The SUV will be available in Limited and XLE trims with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. It will include a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen.
The delay also affects the Subaru Getaway, which shares the same platform and production site in Kentucky and is now pushed to the first quarter of 2027. This shift may provide competitors like Hyundai and Kia, with their IONIQ 9 and EV9 models, an opportunity to capture additional market share in the segment.
