First Look at the 2028 Toyota Highlander

A First Look at the All-Electric Highlander for DeRidder Drivers

The upcoming 2028 Toyota Highlander begins a new chapter as an all-electric, three-row SUV built to make modern family transportation more flexible. Toyota's early details point to seating for up to seven, useful cargo space, available electronic all-wheel drive, and the latest connected and driver-assistance technology.

That balance can fit the varied demands of life around DeRidder. A single day may include a commute, school or activity pickups, errands, and travel toward Fort Johnson or other communities across southwest Louisiana. Instead of asking drivers to choose between passenger room and forward-looking technology, the Highlander brings both together with several battery and drivetrain configurations.

Toyota has announced XLE and Limited trims, with front-wheel drive or electronic all-wheel drive depending on configuration. This first look at range, seating, charging, comfort, and traction can help shoppers decide what to ask about as the Highlander gets closer to arriving at Hixson Toyota.

When Is the 2028 Highlander Expected to Arrive?

Toyota originally introduced the electric Highlander as a 2027 model, but it is now designated as a 2028 model. Toyota expects sales of the XLE AWD and Limited AWD versions with the larger 95.8-kWh battery to begin in early 2027, followed by the XLE FWD with the 77.0-kWh battery in mid-2027. Pricing is expected closer to the on-sale date. Timing and local availability may change, so contact Hixson Toyota for updates.

2028 Highlander Interior Space and Three-Row Seating

Toyota plans three rows of seating for up to seven when the 2028 Highlander is equipped with the available second-row bench, offered on XLE AWD. Standard second-row captain's chairs create a more open path between the seats, while one-touch power-fold functionality helps simplify access to the third row. Shoppers can consider whether an extra seating position or the space between captain's chairs better fits their household.

Toyota lists SofTex®-trimmed seating, heated front seats, and customizable ambient lighting as standard. A panoramic glass roof is available across the lineup.

The Limited trim adds several comforts:

• Ventilated front seats
• Heated second-row seats
• Rear-window sunshades

The available panoramic roof, announced as Toyota's largest, can bring more light into all three rows, making the cabin feel open for passengers beyond the front seats. Multiple charging points also support a household traveling with several phones, tablets, or other compatible devices.

How Much Cargo Space Does the 2028 Highlander Have?

The 2028 Highlander offers 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row for smaller daily loads. Fold the third row, and that space expands to 45.6 cubic feet for luggage, larger purchases, equipment, or supplies. DeRidder households can adjust the cabin for the day's priorities rather than committing permanently to either passenger or cargo space.

Modern Exterior Design with Everyday Convenience

The all-electric platform gives the 2028 Highlander a cleaner, more aerodynamic profile. A streamlined front fascia, sculpted bodywork, and pronounced fenders create a modern Toyota SUV design without sacrificing the practical details drivers use regularly.

2028 Highlander Exterior Features

Exterior convenience and design features include:

• Full-width LED lighting
• Semi-flush electronic door handles
• Standard hands-free power liftgate
• Smart Key with push-button start
• 19-inch wheels with aero caps on XLE

The hands-free liftgate can be especially useful when approaching with groceries, travel bags, or other items already in hand. Smart Key with push-button start is another convenience Toyota has announced for the new model.

Available Exterior Colors

The announced exterior color palette includes:

• Midnight Black Metallic
• Heavy Metal
• Wind Chill Pearl
• Reservoir Blue
• Spellbound
• Everest

2028 Toyota Highlander Performance and Range

The 2028 Highlander is expected to give shoppers a choice of battery capacity and drivetrain instead of a conventional gasoline engine. That lets buyers weigh everyday range, power, and traction against the way they expect to drive.

Toyota has announced four primary configurations:

• XLE FWD: 77.0-kWh battery, 221 horsepower, and a manufacturer-estimated 287-mile range
• XLE AWD: 77.0-kWh battery, 338 horsepower, and a manufacturer-estimated 270-mile range
• XLE AWD: 95.8-kWh battery, 338 horsepower, and a manufacturer-estimated 315-mile range
• Limited AWD: 95.8-kWh battery, 338 horsepower, and a manufacturer-estimated 315-mile range

Front-wheel drive may suit shoppers focused on straightforward daily transportation. Electronic AWD adds a second motor and raises total system output to 338 horsepower. Toyota also lists Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control for AWD models, adding options for responding to loose or uneven surfaces when travel becomes more demanding.

For southwest Louisiana drivers, the most useful configuration depends on more than the longest available range. Daily mileage, home-charging access, passenger and cargo loads, longer regional trips, and the value placed on added traction should all shape the decision.

How Do You Charge the 2028 Highlander?

Toyota says the 2028 Highlander will support Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging, plus NACS DC fast charging at compatible public stations. Under ideal conditions, DC fast charging can bring the battery from approximately 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes. A dual-voltage 120V/240V cable is included, and Battery Preconditioning and Plug & Charge are designed to simplify charging. Plug & Charge and automatic preconditioning require connected service; actual range and charging times vary with conditions.

For many owners, overnight home charging can handle routine driving, while public fast charging adds flexibility for longer trips. Shoppers should consider overnight parking, access to a 240V outlet, and charging options along common routes. With separately purchased bidirectional accessories, vehicle-to-load capability is designed to use energy from the Highlander’s battery to power compatible external devices, such as equipment for outdoor activities. Toyota says more details about the accessories will be available later.

Toyota Multimedia and Connected Technology

Toyota has announced a standard 14-inch touchscreen for the 2028 Highlander's multimedia system and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster to place key driving information ahead of the driver. The interface uses a customizable, smartphone-style layout with widgets that can make frequently used functions easier to reach.

Connectivity and entertainment features include:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility
• Enhanced “Hey Toyota” voice assistance
• USB ports and dual wireless chargers
• Available Spotify®, SiriusXM® with 360L®, and 11-speaker JBL® audio

In a three-row SUV, technology needs to serve more than the front seats. Charging access across all three rows helps passengers keep compatible devices powered without passing a single cable around the cabin. Wireless smartphone integration can also place familiar navigation, communication, and audio tools within reach while reducing console clutter.

Connected Features Beyond the Touchscreen

Available Toyota Connected Services may include:

• Intelligent Assistant
• Cloud Navigation with 3D Maps
• Destination Assist
• Safety Connect
• Service Connect
• Remote Connect

Enhanced Digital Key is designed to let a compatible smartphone lock, unlock, and start the Highlander. Access may be shared with up to five additional drivers, which can simplify vehicle use within a household. Digital Key requires an eligible device and an active Remote Connect trial or subscription. Toyota also lists a standard built-in Drive Recorder that uses exterior cameras to capture 20-second clips during select events.

2028 Highlander Safety and Driver Assistance

Toyota says every 2028 Highlander will come with Toyota Safety Sense™ 4.0. The newest generation uses updated camera and radar hardware to help monitor vehicles, road markings, pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and other conditions when individual features are operating within their limits.

Standard Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 technologies include:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Automatic High Beams
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Road Sign Assist
• Proactive Driving Assist

These systems are designed to support the driver rather than replace attention or judgment. On longer regional drives, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist can provide added support with speed and lane positioning. In changing traffic, Pre-Collision System and Proactive Driving Assist can add another layer of awareness when their operating conditions are met.

Additional Standard Safety and Awareness Features

The Star Safety System™ combines six standard braking and vehicle-control technologies:

• Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control
• Traction Control
• Anti-lock Braking System
• Electronic Brake-force Distribution
• Brake Assist
• Smart Stop Technology

Other standard awareness and parking features include:

• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Backup camera with dynamic gridlines
• Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking
• Hill Start Assist Control
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Rear-seat reminder

Together, these features support common situations such as changing lanes, backing out of a crowded parking space, maneuvering a three-row SUV near other vehicles, or keeping track of rear-seat occupants before walking away.

Advanced Assistance in the Limited Trim

The Limited trim adds or makes available several advanced technologies:

• Panoramic View Monitor
• Advanced Park
• Front Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane Change Assist
• Traffic Jam Assist

These features may be particularly valuable to shoppers who want more camera coverage and assistance during dense traffic or parking maneuvers. Traffic Jam Assist requires an active Drive Connect trial or subscription. All driver-assistance systems have operating limitations and do not replace attentive driving.

Get 2028 Highlander Updates in DeRidder

As you consider whether the new Highlander could fit your household, start with the details that shape your routine: how many seats you need, where you would charge, and how often you travel beyond your everyday routes. Those answers can help you decide which announced battery, drivetrain, and seating configuration to explore further.

Contact Hixson Toyota in DeRidder for updates on pricing, availability, and the 2028 Highlander's expected arrival. Our team can help you discuss EV ownership and financing and, once the vehicle is available, arrange a test drive. In the meantime, explore how to find the Toyota that fits your life.

Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Toyota is under license. A compatible Bluetooth®-enabled phone must first be paired. Phone performance depends on software, coverage, and carrier.Manufacturer estimates and announced specifications are subject to change. Actual range and charging performance will vary based on vehicle configuration, battery condition, temperature, driving habits, vehicle load, charging equipment, and other factors.

*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.