The 2028 Toyota Highlander marks the biggest transformation yet for Toyota’s three-row midsize SUV: The fifth-generation Highlander goes fully electric, with seating for up to seven, a manufacturer-estimated driving range of up to 315 miles, available all-wheel drive, and up to 338 horsepower. For shoppers comparing SUVs for families in Brunswick, the changes go well beyond the powertrain. The new Highlander model also introduces a redesigned cabin, expanded technology, Toyota Safety Sense™ 4.0, NACS fast-charging compatibility, and more than 45 cubic feet of cargo room with the third row folded. I-95 Toyota of Brunswick is giving a closer look at why Toyota is jumping to the 2028 model year, how the new electric powertrain works, and what Brunswick-area buyers can expect from its range, charging, interior, technology, and two-trim lineup.
The unusual model-year designation comes down to timing. According to Toyota, the redesigned Highlander will begin reaching the market in early 2027 as a 2028 model-year vehicle, starting with XLE AWD and Limited AWD versions equipped with the larger 95.8-kWh battery. XLE FWD models with the 77.0-kWh battery are expected to follow in mid-2027. In other words, Toyota is not waiting until calendar year 2028 to launch the SUV; it is assigning the substantially redesigned vehicle a 2028 model-year designation.
That timing also accompanies a major generational change. The 2028 model begins the Highlander’s fifth generation and becomes Toyota’s first three-row battery-electric vehicle for the U.S. market. It will also be the first Toyota BEV assembled in America, with production planned for Georgetown, KY.
Toyota plans four battery, drivetrain, and range combinations expected to produce:
The choice gives buyers an interesting decision: prioritize the smaller battery or move to the extended-range configuration.
Performance changes with the drivetrain, too. Front-wheel-drive models are expected to produce 221 total system horsepower and 198 lb-ft of maximum torque. AWD models are projected to step up to 338 total system horsepower, with front and rear electric motors producing 198 and 125 lb-ft of torque, respectively. AWD versions may also include Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control.
For drivers new to EV ownership, Toyota has put considerable effort into making charging straightforward. Every 2028 Highlander is expected to have a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, opening access to thousands of compatible DC fast-charging stations across the country.
Under ideal conditions, DC fast charging may take the battery from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging are supported as well, and Toyota includes a dual-voltage 120-volt/240-volt charging cable. An 11-kW onboard AC charger is standard.
Battery Preconditioning can prepare the battery for faster DC charging, while Plug & Charge capability can simplify authentication on supported charging networks. The Highlander also introduces vehicle-to-load technology, allowing the SUV to supply electricity to compatible external devices when the required bidirectional accessories are used.
The electric transformation has not pushed family practicality aside. The 2028 Highlander will offer three rows and seating for up to seven with an available second-row bench seat. Standard second-row captain’s chairs feature one-touch power-fold controls for easier third-row access.
Toyota equips the cabin with:
Folding the third row is projected to create more than 45 cubic feet of rear cargo space, while a standard hands-free power liftgate makes that space easier to reach.
That combination of passenger flexibility, storage, and an EV powertrain gives shoppers researching SUVs for families in Brunswick a distinctly different Highlander than previous generations.
A 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster will anchor the dashboard. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility help reduce cable clutter, while device-charging provisions extend through all three rows. Digital Key capability can also allow compatible smartphones and smartwatches to unlock and start the vehicle.
An 11-speaker JBL® premium audio system will be available on select configurations.
Every 2028 Highlander will include Toyota Safety Sense™ 4.0, the latest generation of Toyota’s active safety and driver-assistance suite. The new Highlander pairs those systems with its redesigned platform and updated driver technology. Certain Limited features, including Traffic Jam Assist, expand the available assistance technology, although some connected functions require an eligible trial or subscription.
For buyers, the key point is simple: Toyota is making its latest safety suite standard rather than limiting it to the higher Highlander grade.
Toyota is simplifying the lineup to two trims: XLE and Limited. XLE offers the widest choice, with FWD or AWD and two available battery sizes depending on drivetrain. Limited comes standard with AWD and the 95.8-kWh battery.
The exterior is equally new. Full-width LED lighting, broad fenders, semi-flush electronic door handles, and clean body surfacing give the Highlander a noticeably more streamlined shape. XLE models will feature 19-inch wheels with aero covers, while 22-inch wheels and two-tone exterior paint are available on Limited.
The 2028 Toyota Highlander is shaping up to be much more than a routine redesign. It brings three-row practicality into Toyota’s growing electric lineup while adding meaningful range, faster-charging capability, modern cabin technology, and flexible passenger space.
If the 2028 Toyota Highlander sounds like the right fit for your family, contact I-95 Toyota of Brunswick in Brunswick, GA, to ask about availability updates, upcoming pricing information, and the latest details as Toyota moves closer to launch.
*Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.
* All fuel economy mpg listings in the content above are manufacturer estimates. Actual mileage will vary.
