Is The All New 2027 Toyota Highlander REALLY Going To Sell? | Ep. 324
About this episode
The discussion centers around the upcoming 2027 Toyota Highlander, which will be fully electric, and whether it will succeed in the market. The hosts explore Toyota's current electric vehicle lineup, including the BZ series, and debate the implications of shifting from a popular gasoline model to an all-electric version. They also touch on the design elements of the new Highlander, comparing it to competitors and discussing the trend of increasing technology in vehicles, including the pros and cons of electronic features like door handles and shifters.
( https://www.alltfl.com/ ) Check out our new spot to find ALL our content, from news to videos and our podcasts! On this episode of TFL Car Chat, Roman and Tommy dive into one big question: Will the all-new 2027 Toyota Highlander actually sell? With the midsize SUV segment more competitive than ever, they break down what Toyota needs to get right, whether buyers are ready for major changes, and if the Highlander still has the magic that made it a family favorite for years.
Tommy also shares details from his recent first drive of the latest Mazda CX-5 and how it stacks up against the competition. The guys then take a hard look at Toyota’s growing EV strategy, discussing the brand’s full electric lineup — including models like the Toyota bZ and C-HR — and whether Toyota is finally all-in on battery power. Plus, they debate whether the buzzy Slate Truck has what it takes to survive in today’s brutal truck market.
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electric vehicles
"Toyota is already offering a 5,000-thord discount or 0% APR financing on their three electric vehicles. Did you know Toyota even had three electric vehicles?"
Electric vehicles are cars that run on electricity instead of gasoline, which can be better for the environment.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are cars that are powered entirely or partially by electricity, offering an alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Toyota Highlander
"...oday's podcast, we're going to talk about the new Highlander. [SPEAKER_02]: And we're going to find out, is it..."
The Toyota Highlander is a family-friendly SUV that has lots of room for people and their stuff. It's known for being safe and reliable, which is why many families choose it.
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers a blend of comfort, space, and reliability, making it a popular choice for families. Its versatility and advanced safety features often lead to discussions about family-friendly vehicles.
Toyota bZ4X
"They have the BZ, which used to be the BZ4X."
The Toyota BZ4X is a new electric SUV from Toyota, designed to be eco-friendly and part of their electric vehicle lineup.
The Toyota BZ4X is an all-electric SUV that represents Toyota's entry into the electric vehicle market, part of their broader BZ (Beyond Zero) series.
Toyota Chr
"...ng out next week. [SPEAKER_00]: They have the new CHR, which you remember we saw in Plano. [SPEAKER_00]..."
The Toyota C-HR is a small SUV that has a cool, modern look. It's great for people who want something stylish that can still carry a few passengers and bags.
The Toyota C-HR is a subcompact SUV known for its bold styling and efficient performance. It is often discussed for its unique design and appeal to younger buyers looking for a stylish and practical vehicle.
Toyota Grand Highlander
"is the Highlander, not the Grand Highlander, but the Highlander, which is going all electric in 2027."
The Toyota Highlander is a popular SUV that will become fully electric by 2027, meaning it will run on electricity instead of gasoline, which is part of a trend in the car industry.
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that will transition to an all-electric model by 2027, reflecting the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles.
Mazda Cx5
"...[SPEAKER_02]: Yeah, so I just drove the new Mazda CX5 and we're gonna talk about [SPEAKER_02]: tech ove..."
The Mazda CX-5 is a small SUV that looks nice and is fun to drive. People like to talk about it because it has a good mix of comfort and style.
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV known for its stylish design and engaging driving experience. It often comes up in discussions due to its balance of performance, comfort, and advanced technology.
EV
"...I was under the assumption that the new Highlander was going to come both as an EV and as an non-EV..."
An EV, or electric vehicle, is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. This means it doesn't produce exhaust fumes and can be better for the environment.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that runs entirely on electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. EVs are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs.
Toyota RAV4
"Um, I think one of the big mistakes toilet made with the BZ is they should have just called it the RAF4 or RAF4 EV, because Highlander such a strong brand just like RAF4 is, it makes sense to leverage that."
The Toyota RAV4 is a smaller SUV compared to the Highlander and is very popular for its reliability and practicality. It can also come in a hybrid version, which is more fuel-efficient.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that has been one of Toyota's best-selling models. It is known for its reliability, practicality, and available hybrid variant, making it a versatile choice for many drivers.
electric door handles
"Yeah, I mean, not, well, not real ones are still electric, but yeah, I was going to say they're not real at all, they're still but they're not like the ones you have to push out, sure. There are recessed holes that you can reach into and actually grab onto something."
Electric door handles let you open the car doors without a traditional handle. Instead, you push a button or touch a spot, which can look sleek but might be tricky if there's a power failure.
Electric door handles are mechanisms that allow the doors of a vehicle to be opened electronically, often replacing traditional mechanical handles. They can enhance the vehicle's design but may pose accessibility issues in emergencies if not designed properly.
electronic shifter
"And I think it's especially like the, there are, there's an argument to be made for like an electronic shifter, right?"
An electronic shifter is a modern way to change gears in a car using buttons or a dial instead of a traditional stick. It helps make the inside of the car look nicer and gives you more room.
An electronic shifter is a type of gear selector that uses electronic controls instead of traditional mechanical linkages. This allows for more flexible design options in the vehicle's interior, often resulting in more space and a cleaner look.
rotary shifter
"I remember when the four fusion went to the rotary shifter."
A rotary shifter is a round dial that you turn to change gears in a car, instead of using a stick. It helps make the car's interior look cleaner and gives you more room.
A rotary shifter is a type of gear selector that allows the driver to change gears by rotating a dial instead of moving a traditional gear stick. This design can help save space in the vehicle's center console.
three in the tree
"When it opened up a lot of space, three in the tree tummy, three in the tree."
'Three in the tree' is an old way to change gears in a car where the gear stick is located on the steering column. It was popular in older cars and helped save space inside the car.
'Three in the tree' refers to a type of manual transmission gear shifter that is mounted on the steering column instead of the floor. This design was common in older vehicles and allowed for more space in the cabin.
three on the tree
"You don't even know what a three on the tree. Because I think a lot of people don't know that back in the 60s, they would put the shifter over here behind the steering wheel. So it was a lever that you would actually put in gear behind the steering wheel, and so that could throw it up a lot of space."
'Three on the tree' is a way to describe a gear shifter that is located on the steering column of a car. This was popular in older vehicles, especially trucks, because it saved space inside the car.
'Three on the tree' refers to a type of manual transmission shifter that is mounted on the steering column instead of on the floor. This setup was common in older vehicles, especially trucks, allowing for a more spacious interior by eliminating the need for a floor-mounted shifter.
aerodynamic
"...the reason you do that, especially with an EV is because it makes the car more aerodynamic..."
Aerodynamics is about how air moves around a car. A car designed to be more aerodynamic can use less fuel and go faster because it cuts through the air better.
Aerodynamics refers to how air flows around a vehicle, which can significantly impact fuel efficiency and performance. Smoother shapes reduce drag, allowing cars to move more efficiently through the air.
manual override
"...you still need a manual override..."
A manual override is a way to control something by hand if the automatic system stops working. In cars, it helps you open doors or operate features even if the buttons fail.
A manual override is a backup mechanism that allows a user to operate a system manually in case the automated system fails. In cars, this ensures safety and functionality even if electronic systems malfunction.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...anual override [SPEAKER_02]: So, in a Tesla, in a Corvette, you've got the button, but you also have to have..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car that many people admire. It's known for being powerful and fun to drive, which is why it often comes up in conversations about exciting cars.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its high performance and distinctive design. It has a long history dating back to 1953 and is often celebrated for its powerful engines and advanced technology, making it a popular topic among car enthusiasts.
Tesla Model Y
"Yeah, so we just released a new model Y, and in that one you've got the button, and then right in front of it, you've got a little handle you can pull up."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV made by Tesla. It's popular for being spacious and having cool tech features like self-driving capabilities.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that offers a spacious interior and advanced technology features. It's known for its performance, range, and the integration of Tesla's Autopilot system.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"...we just bought a 2005 land cruiser and I drove back from the ranch because we're going to take it off road tomorrow..."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a large SUV that is great for driving on rough terrain. The 2005 version is known for being tough and reliable, which is why many people like to use it for off-roading.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and durability. The 2005 model features a robust design and a reputation for reliability, making it a popular choice for both on-road and off-road adventures.
Mercedes-Benz
"No design or said, hey, let's somehow incorporate this screen, at least Mercedes does that..."
Mercedes-Benz is a famous car brand that makes luxury vehicles. They are known for having nice designs and technology in their cars.
Mercedes-Benz is a well-known luxury automotive brand recognized for its high-quality vehicles and innovative technology. They often incorporate advanced design elements into their interiors, including integrated screens that enhance the overall aesthetic.
Porsche
"...at least Mercedes does that, so Porsche does that, right? They have this new curved screen that's like a ski slope."
Porsche is a high-end car brand that makes sports cars. They are known for having stylish designs and new technology in their cars, like curved screens.
Porsche is a prestigious sports car manufacturer known for its performance-oriented vehicles and luxurious interiors. They have recently introduced a new curved screen design in their vehicles, which enhances the modern look of their dashboards.
kilowatt hour battery
"And it's going to have a 77 kilowatt hour battery, a 98 kilowatt hour battery, front will drive 280 miles of range or so..."
A kilowatt hour is a way to measure how much energy a battery can hold. The bigger the number, the more energy it can store, which usually means the car can go further on a single charge.
A kilowatt hour (kWh) is a unit of energy that represents the amount of energy consumed if a device uses one kilowatt of power for one hour. In electric vehicles, the kWh rating of the battery indicates how much energy it can store, which directly affects the vehicle's range.
charging speed
"So the first place is they specifically didn't mention in the press release or during the press presentation, what's the charging speed?"
Charging speed is how fast you can fill up an electric car's battery. The faster it charges, the less time you have to wait before you can drive again.
Charging speed refers to how quickly an electric vehicle's battery can be charged, typically measured in kilowatts (kW). Faster charging speeds allow for shorter charging times, which is crucial for convenience during travel.
800 volt system
"...when you compare it to like an 800 volt system that like the ionic has, it's pretty, it's pretty, you know, it's getting dated."
An 800 volt system is a type of electrical setup in electric cars that helps them charge faster. The higher the voltage, the quicker you can fill up the battery.
An 800 volt system in electric vehicles allows for higher charging speeds and more efficient power delivery. It enables faster charging times compared to traditional 400 volt systems, making it a desirable feature for performance and convenience.
Volkswagen Egolfs
"[SPEAKER_00]: So they'll have an electric highlander and a gas highlander, which also has three rows. [SPEAKER_02]: Yeah, I mean, I just, it's an interesting conversation though, because like I've been talking to a bunch of EV owners, and you know, I run into my travels, and everything from like e-golfs, derivians, to Tesla's. [SPEAKER_02]: And I've been talking to these folks like how often are you DC fast charging them and probably the 10 or 12 conversations I've had in the last two weeks, not a single one has ever used a DC fast charger."
The Volkswagen e-Golf is an electric car that looks like a regular Golf but runs on electricity instead of gas. It's a good option for those who want to drive green and save on fuel.
The Volkswagen e-Golf is the electric version of the popular Golf hatchback, offering a sustainable driving option without sacrificing practicality. It is often discussed in the context of electric vehicles and their growing presence in the automotive market.
Rivian R1T
"So like when I asked this one guy, I'm like, how fast is your Rivian R1 teacher, I've done a DC teacher, he's like, I don't know, I'm like, you carry, he's like, no, because I wouldn't road trip."
The Rivian R1T is a new electric truck that can go off-road and is made for outdoor adventures. It's designed to be tough and has cool tech features.
The Rivian R1T is an all-electric pickup truck designed for adventure and off-road capability. It features a unique design and is equipped with advanced technology for outdoor enthusiasts.
Volkswagen Id Buzz
"but when we bought the ID buzz, one of the reasons besides the fact that Steve was great over at Volkswagen of a running was we wanted a road trip because that is the quintessential road trip that she had been through SUVs are that."
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a new electric van that looks like the old VW buses. It's designed for families and is great for road trips.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an all-electric van inspired by the classic VW Microbus. It combines retro design with modern electric vehicle technology, making it suitable for family trips and urban driving.
EVs
"every other manufacturer is pulling back for EVs and now..."
EVs stands for electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of traditional fuels like gas.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel.
batteries
"The batteries are also going to be built here..."
Batteries are devices that store energy, and in electric cars, they provide the power needed to drive the vehicle.
In the context of electric vehicles, batteries store the electrical energy needed to power the vehicle's electric motor.
Toyota Corolla
"I mean, think of the most popular cars, Corolla."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that's very popular because it's dependable and gets good gas mileage. Many people choose it for everyday driving.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars globally, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It has been a popular choice for both new and used car buyers for decades.
Toyota Tacoma
"Tacoma, only sold North America."
The Toyota Tacoma is a smaller truck that many people in North America buy for its strength and ability to drive off-road. It's popular for work and adventure.
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck that is primarily sold in North America. It's known for its off-road capabilities and durability, making it a favorite among truck enthusiasts.
Toyota Camry
"Mostly the biggest selling cars, Camry, around the world."
The Toyota Camry is a popular car that many people like because it's comfortable and lasts a long time. It's a good choice for anyone needing a reliable vehicle.
The Toyota Camry is one of the top-selling sedans worldwide, known for its comfort, reliability, and strong resale value. It appeals to a wide range of buyers looking for a practical vehicle.
Toyota Crown
"...ing because that car, you know, would be the last crown of my list because it was at least One maybe not ..."
The Toyota Crown is a big, fancy car that's comfortable to drive. It's often talked about because it has a lot of nice features and is seen as a luxury vehicle.
The Toyota Crown is a full-size sedan that has a long history and is known for its luxury features and smooth ride. It often comes up in discussions about premium vehicles and Toyota's offerings in the luxury segment.
Lincoln Nautilus
"...at's a really good one. [SPEAKER_00]: Also in the Nautilus. [SPEAKER_02]: I also think gear shift should nev..."
The Lincoln Nautilus is a fancy SUV that's designed for a smooth and comfortable ride. People talk about it because it has a lot of nice features and is great for long trips.
The Lincoln Nautilus is a luxury midsize SUV that offers a comfortable ride and upscale features. It often comes up in discussions about luxury vehicles and the importance of comfort and technology in modern SUVs.
CarPlay
"...is YGM is getting rid of CarPlay."
CarPlay is a system that lets you connect your iPhone to your car so you can use apps and music on the car's screen.
CarPlay is a feature developed by Apple that allows iPhone users to connect their devices to their car's infotainment system, enabling access to apps, navigation, and music through the car's display.
Ford Ranger
"...e headlights would be terrible and lockers on the Ranger Raptor Yeah, that's one two that's a little bit [..."
The Ford Ranger is a smaller truck that can be used for work or play. It's tough and can handle rough roads, which is why people often mention it when talking about trucks.
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck that is known for its versatility and off-road capabilities. It has gained popularity for its rugged design and practicality, making it a common topic in conversations about trucks.
Ranger Raptor
"...headlights would be terrible and lockers on the Ranger Raptor..."
The Ranger Raptor is a special version of the Ford Ranger truck that is built for off-roading, with better suspension and a stronger engine.
The Ranger Raptor is a high-performance variant of the Ford Ranger, designed for off-road use, featuring enhanced suspension, a powerful engine, and rugged styling.
Slate Truck
"What slate knows is that the baits that our friend Henry Ford and Walter P. Chrysler and Mr. Durand are using to get those truck buyers, that bait's not gonna work on a non-truck buyer but the fish are different, right? You need the right bait for the right fish."
The hosts explain who Slate is trying to sell its little electric truck to. Like the Ford Maverick, it's aimed at people who aren't typical truck buyers, so the company markets it differently than a normal pickup.
The hosts discuss Slate's go-to-market strategy: like the Ford Maverick — which Ford admits isn't bought by traditional truck buyers — the Slate Truck targets non-truck buyers, which is why the company markets it differently (e.g. putting it in Jay Leno's hands) rather than chasing the conventional pickup crowd.
Chrysler P Chrysler
"[SPEAKER_02]: Maverick is not bought by truck buyers, and we know that because when we did the towing test, we actually heard back from the Ford people and they say we've run the data and these Maverick buyers are not towing at all. [SPEAKER_02]: They are not truck buyers and Ford flat out said the PR manager was like, people are buying Mavericks are not truck buyers and they sell a heck of a lot of Mavericks because what slate knows is that the baits [SPEAKER_02]: that are our friend Henry Ford and Walter P. Chrysler and Mr. Durand are using to get those truck buyers that bait's not gonna work on a non-truck buyer but the fish are different, right? [SPEAKER_02]: You need the right bait for the right fish."
The Chrysler PT Cruiser is a small car that has a unique, old-fashioned look. People remember it because it was different from most cars on the road and was popular for a while.
The Chrysler PT Cruiser is a retro-styled compact car that gained popularity in the early 2000s for its unique design and versatility. It is often mentioned in discussions about quirky cars and their place in automotive history.
Ford Maverick
"...believe that because we had a, we had a, we had a maverick. [SPEAKER_00]: Yes, yes, we had a maverick."
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that's easy to drive and good on gas. It's a great choice for people who want a truck without spending too much money.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that emphasizes efficiency and practicality, appealing to a new generation of truck buyers. It stands out with its affordable price and hybrid option, making it a relevant topic in discussions about modern vehicles.
Ford F150
"...no one's crushed out being a maverick with an F-150. I don't even think people are crushed out being a maverick with the ranger."
The Ford F-150 is a large truck that many people use for work or towing. It's very popular in the U.S. and is known for being tough and reliable.
The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability, versatility, and strong performance. It's one of the best-selling vehicles in the United States and is popular among both work and recreational users.
Honda CR-V
"Then the conversation changes, because a slate doesn't work like my CRV. It doesn't have a back seat, right?"
The Honda CR-V is a popular small SUV that offers a lot of space and good gas mileage. It's a great option for families or anyone needing extra room for passengers and cargo.
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that is known for its spacious interior, reliability, and fuel efficiency. It is a popular choice among families and individuals looking for a versatile vehicle.
Jeep Wrangler
"...KER_00]: I can give you a good example of that, a wrangler. [SPEAKER_00]: Or a wrangler, I think appeals to ..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough car that's great for driving off-road. People love it because it can go almost anywhere and has a unique, boxy shape.
The Jeep Wrangler is a legendary off-road vehicle known for its ruggedness and ability to tackle challenging terrains. Its iconic design and strong following among outdoor enthusiasts make it a frequent topic in automotive discussions.
Cupra Born
"...tric truck and she'll be like, hey, when Tommy is born, right? [SPEAKER_00]: I'll be like, you know what..."
The Cupra Born is a sporty electric car that looks cool and is fun to drive. It's a great choice for people who want a fast car that doesn't use gas.
The Cupra Born is an electric hatchback that represents the performance-oriented side of the Volkswagen Group's electric vehicle offerings. It is often discussed for its sporty design and advanced technology, appealing to enthusiasts looking for an eco-friendly option.
Mitsubishi Outlander
"[SPEAKER_02]: No. [SPEAKER_02]: Normal Outlander. [SPEAKER_02]: It's $5,000 more in the Mitsubishi..."
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a family SUV that has room for lots of people and their gear. It's a good choice for families who need space and want a reliable car.
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a midsize SUV that offers three rows of seating and a variety of features for families. It is often discussed for its practicality and value in the competitive SUV market.
Fiat 500e
"...So like the, [SPEAKER_02]: We need to replace our 500E. [SPEAKER_02]: See, you're soon, because the leas..."
The Fiat 500e is a small electric car that's perfect for driving around the city. It's easy to park and helps reduce pollution, which is why people like it.
The Fiat 500e is an electric version of the classic Fiat 500, designed for urban driving with a compact size and eco-friendly performance. It is often mentioned in discussions about small electric cars and their role in city transportation.
Jeep Cherokee
"...ould talk about, you're going to go drive the new Cherokee and believe? [SPEAKER_00]: No."
The Jeep Cherokee is a smaller SUV that's good for both city driving and going off-road. It's a popular choice for people who want a car that can handle different types of roads.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that combines off-road capability with everyday practicality. Its blend of comfort and ruggedness makes it a popular choice among those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
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