If you’re a fan of Toyota's Highlander but have been waiting for an electric alternative, the wait might soon be over. Say hello to the Toyota bZ5X, an all-electric three-row SUV that seems poised to bridge the gap between practicality, family-friendliness, and sustainability.
The Toyota Highlander has long been a symbol of the mid-size SUV segment in markets across the world, including the U.S. and Korea. Its spacious third row and hybrid powertrain have made it a go-to for family drivers. Now, with the Toyota bZ5X, Toyota aims to carry that Highlander legacy into the age of electric vehicles. Set for a 2025 release, the Toyota bZ5X promises to blend the trusted DNA of the Highlander with zero-emission performance to meet the needs of the future.
Built on Toyota's e-TNGA platform, jointly developed with Subaru, the Toyota bZ5X will feature a dual-motor AWD system and is expected to produce between 300 and 350 horsepower—a clear step up from the Highlander Hybrid’s 246 hp. With a battery capacity projected to exceed 90kWh, it aims for an EPA range of 300 to 350 miles, rivaling the likes of the Tesla Model X and Rivian R1S. Rapid DC charging (200kW+) will allow for an 80% recharge in about 30 minutes, alleviating range anxiety on long drives.
In terms of size, the bZ5X is likely to match or slightly exceed the Highlander’s 4,950mm length, retaining the beloved three-row, seven-seat layout. The SUV’s exterior will likely borrow from the sleek design language of the bZ4X, enhanced with a bolder grille and LED lighting to project a more robust stance. Inside, expect a spacious cabin outfitted with Toyota’s latest tech: a 14-inch+ display, wireless smartphone charging, and three-zone climate control, all tailored for modern family life. And yes—flat-folding rear seats and a cargo capacity of over 1,800 liters when the third row is down make it ideal for road trips and Costco runs alike.
Toyota also seems ready to tackle a key Highlander critique: the third-row legroom. Thanks to the long-wheelbase benefits of EV architecture, we may finally see a third row that feels like more than an afterthought.
As for market positioning, the Toyota bZ5X is entering a hot segment. It will compete with Tesla's high-priced Model X, the off-road capable Rivian R1S, and the upcoming Ford Explorer EV. Where the bZ5X could shine is in accessibility. With a projected price point of $60,000 to $70,000, and backed by Toyota’s vast dealer and service network, it's poised to offer more value for everyday families. Given the Highlander's 240,000+ units sold in the U.S. in 2023 alone, the bZ5X has a ready-made audience.
For families prioritizing zero-emission driving, space, and reliability, the Toyota bZ5X presents a compelling case. If federal tax incentives (up to $7,500) remain in place and infrastructure keeps improving, this SUV could convert not just Highlander loyalists, but also first-time EV buyers.
To me, it feels like the culmination of what Toyota has been quietly perfecting for decades—practical innovation. If the bZ5X lives up to the hype, it will prove that Toyota's strength in hybrid reliability can translate beautifully into the fully electric future.
So to every Highlander owner out there: Are you ready for the electric evolution?
-EditorZ
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