Toyota's Revamped Lineup May Feature an Unexpected Sedan and an Electric Highlander | Carscoops

      Toyota is set to introduce a range of new SUVs, trucks, and sedans by 2028, which will include surprising electric vehicle (EV) introductions and changes to hybrids.

      In North America, Toyota plans to reveal multiple new and updated models by 2028. Following the launch of the new RAV4, there are reports of a fully electric Highlander in development. The company continues to focus on sedans, with rumors of a new electric version.

      Toyota’s line in North America is experiencing substantial changes, with significant updates across its most popular models. The RAV4, the best-selling vehicle, is entering a new generation, and the Corolla Cross is receiving a mid-cycle update. However, these updates are just a part of a larger strategy, as the automaker prepares for a series of model launches and redesigns in the coming years.

      An Electric Highlander Could Be Coming

      One of the most notable developments is the Highlander potentially transitioning to an electric model. Toyota has confirmed a new range-extender version for the Chinese market, and in North America, the next Highlander is expected to debut as a battery electric vehicle.

      Reports from Automotive News suggest that the upcoming Highlander may be unveiled by the end of this year, with availability at dealerships in early 2026. It remains unclear whether it will utilize a completely new platform or continue with the TNGA-K architecture that currently supports electric powertrains in models like the Lexus ES.

      Toyota's decision not to offer a hybrid variant for the next Highlander seems to align with changing consumer preferences. Sales of the standard Highlander have dropped 50% year-over-year, totaling just 30,056 units. In contrast, the larger Grand Highlander has increased in popularity, with sales climbing 19.7% to 65,419 units during the same timeframe.

      Introduced in 2023, the Grand Highlander is anticipated to undergo a facelift in 2027 to remain competitive, while still featuring a combustion engine.

      More Electric SUVs Are Coming

      Toyota also aims to broaden its electric SUV lineup with a new three-row model similar in size to the Grand Highlander. Initially previewed by the bZ5X concept in 2021, production has faced delays due to evolving market demands. Latest information suggests that production might kick off in 2028 at Toyota’s plant in Georgetown, Kentucky.

      In the SUV segment, the RAV4 has just entered its new generation for the 2026 model year, following a solid performance from its predecessor, which concluded 2024 as the best-selling vehicle both worldwide and in the U.S.

      The newly released Crown Signia is still early in its lifecycle, so a facelift likely won't occur before 2028. That same year is expected to bring mid-cycle updates for the more off-road-oriented 4Runner and Land Cruiser, both built on a truck-based ladder-frame structure.

      Sedans Still Have Their Place

      Toyota remains dedicated to sedans, differentiating itself from other automakers that are reducing their sedan offerings. The company’s commitment to traditional body styles now presents a strategic advantage, catering to a gap left by competitors.

      However, according to Automotive News, Toyota is planning to extend the time between updates or redesigns for its sedans to conserve development resources. Consequently, the Camry is not expected to be updated until 2028, while the hydrogen-powered Mirai is likely to remain in its current format for now.

      The smaller Toyota Corolla sedan, recently updated for the 2026 model year, is anticipated to see a new generation within the next couple of years. The Crown fastback sedan also expects a refresh in 2026, although the stylish Crown Sedan available in Japan has not yet been slated for a North American launch.

      A fully electric sedan might join Toyota’s North American lineup in 2027, though specifics are sparse. Should it take design cues from the brand's EVs marketed in China, like the bZ7, it's expected to serve as a more affordable alternative to the Tesla Model S, although it will likely differ significantly from its Chinese version.

      If introduced, this sedan would complement Toyota’s current electric offerings, which mainly include crossovers and SUVs like the new C-HR+, the updated bZ models, and the bZ Woodland variants, all utilizing the e-TNGA platform shared with Subaru counterparts.

      Trucks, Minivans, and Performance Versions

      Toyota continues to emphasize its truck lineup for the U.S. market. The full-size Tundra, which has been in production since 2021 and received minor updates for 2026, is anticipated to get a more significant facelift next year. A similar timeline is expected for the Sequoia SUV, which shares its platform.

      The newer midsize Tacoma, launched in 2023, is slated for a facelift in 2027. There are also ongoing rumors regarding a smaller compact pickup that may emerge around the same timeframe. This long-