TOYOTA bZ4X Delayed to 2027 or Later

TOYOTA is further delaying the launch of its first three-row all-electric SUV — the bZ4X (formerly codenamed Highlander BEV). According to a recent report by Nikkei, the vehicle's market debut has now been revised to "2027 or later," marking another postponement beyond earlier expectations.

Previously, TOYOTA had indicated the model could reach the market by the end of 2026, with production slated to begin at its Georgetown, Kentucky plant in the second half of that year. However, the factory ramp-up will now also be delayed by several months. In remarks to Cars.com, TOYOTA confirmed the adjustment is intended for "additional optimization," pushing the launch back by at least eight weeks — meaning the earliest possible unveiling would now fall no sooner than early 2027. The latest update suggests the actual timeline may prove even more conservative.

Notably, this delay applies only to the all-electric version. The current 2026-model-year bZ4X gasoline and hybrid variants remain on sale as usual and are expected to stay available through 2027. Meanwhile, the Subaru Getaway — a three-row electric SUV sharing the same TNGA-K pure-electric platform — has likewise been postponed; both models are scheduled for co-production at the same Kentucky facility.

Based on current information, the 2027-model-year bZ4X will launch with XLE and Limited trims, offering both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. Two battery options will be available: 77 kWh and 95.8 kWh. The FWD XLE variant with the 77 kWh pack delivers a CLTC all-electric range of 287 miles (~462 km); AWD XLE and Limited trims equipped with the 95.8 kWh battery achieve up to 320 miles (~515 km); and the AWD XLE with the smaller 77 kWh battery offers 270 miles (~435 km).

The cabin features TOYOTA's new Audio Multimedia system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It includes a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display.

Industry analysts note that while TOYOTA has pursued electrification at a relatively measured pace, its first dedicated EV SUV — the bZ series (including the upgraded bZ4X) — saw U.S. sales surge 90% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, making it the fourth-best-selling EV in the American market. Had the bZ4X launched on schedule, it would have aimed squarely at families seeking spacious, all-electric SUVs. Its continued delays, however, may give competitors like Hyundai and Kia a wider window to capture that demand.