“Something new is on the horizon.”
That’s the entirety of a press release Toyota sent this week. An accompanying photo, however, gives us more to go on.
It shows the silhouette of an SUV against sunset orange, from the rear. It’s dark enough that no badges are visible.
That raises two likely explanations.
One: It’s time for an update of the popular Toyota Highlander. The Highlander on sales lots today dates to 2020. While it remains a well-rounded choice with a strong reputation, that’s a little old by Toyota standards. The company introduced the larger Grand Highlander for the 2024 model year, which cut into the argument for buying a Highlander slightly – it’s good at all the same things, a little larger, and actually starts at a lower price.
That leaves room for an update to redefine the Highlander and give it different appeal to attract a new set of buyers that doesn’t overlap with the Grand Highlander model.
Two: Toyota has long suggested that a Highlander-sized 3-row electric SUV is on the way. The model in the photo wears more prominent lighting than the average car, which is often a design cue that you’re looking at an electric vehicle (EV).
We expect to know more very soon. Toyota hasn’t said when it will reveal further details. But late next week, KBB experts are scheduled to head to an event where Toyota will give journalists their first chance to drive a pair of upcoming electric models. Automakers sometimes drop information on a surprise future model at such events.
We wouldn’t be surprised to learn what this is there, and we’ll let you know when we do.
