The 2020 Toyota Highlander, a mainstay in the mid-size SUV segment, continues to impress with its blend of practicality, comfort, and performance. This iteration boasts a refined design, enhanced technology features, and a commitment to safety, making it a compelling choice for families and adventurers alike.
From its updated exterior styling to its spacious and tech-laden interior, the 2020 Highlander delivers a well-rounded package that caters to a wide range of needs. The vehicle’s reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency further solidifies its position as a top contender in the competitive SUV market.
2020 Toyota Highlander: A Refined and Capable Mid-Size SUV
The 2020 Toyota Highlander, a mainstay in the mid-size SUV segment, has undergone a significant transformation, boasting a refined design, advanced technology, and enhanced performance. This generation builds upon the legacy of its predecessors while introducing notable improvements that cater to a wide range of drivers and their needs.
Overview of the 2020 Toyota Highlander
The 2020 Toyota Highlander embodies a contemporary design language, featuring a bold front grille, sleek headlights, and a sculpted profile. Its dimensions have been slightly increased, offering more passenger and cargo space. The Highlander’s interior has also received a major overhaul, showcasing premium materials, a driver-centric cockpit, and a spacious cabin for all occupants.
Key Features and Design Elements
- Bold front grille with a prominent Toyota emblem
- Sleek LED headlights and taillights
- Sculpted body lines and a wider stance
- Available panoramic sunroof for a spacious feel
- Larger wheel options for an aggressive look
Changes from Previous Generations
The 2020 Highlander introduces significant changes compared to its predecessors, including:
- A redesigned exterior with a more modern and aggressive appearance
- An updated interior with higher-quality materials and a more refined design
- A new platform that offers improved handling and ride quality
- Enhanced safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.0
- New powertrain options, including a hybrid powertrain
Trim Levels and Unique Features
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is available in various trim levels, each offering unique features and amenities:
- L:The base trim level offers a comfortable ride with standard features like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.
- LE:The LE trim adds features like heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a larger 8-inch touchscreen.
- XLE:The XLE trim boasts a premium interior with leather-trimmed seats, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12-speaker JBL sound system.
- Limited:The Limited trim offers a luxurious experience with features like heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a head-up display.
- Platinum:The top-of-the-line Platinum trim offers the ultimate in luxury and comfort with features like a premium leather interior, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10-way power driver’s seat with memory settings.
Performance and Handling
The 2020 Toyota Highlander offers a range of powertrain options to suit different driving preferences and needs.
Engine Options and Performance
- 2.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine:This engine produces 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving.
- 3.5L V6 Engine:This engine delivers 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, offering a more spirited driving experience.
- Hybrid Powertrain:The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, generating a total output of 243 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This option provides excellent fuel efficiency and a smooth driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2020 Toyota Highlander’s fuel efficiency ratings vary depending on the engine configuration and trim level:
- 2.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder:21 city/29 highway/24 combined mpg
- 3.5L V6:20 city/27 highway/23 combined mpg
- Hybrid:36 city/35 highway/36 combined mpg
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The 2020 Highlander’s handling is precise and predictable, thanks to its new platform and suspension tuning. The ride is comfortable, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease. The steering is responsive and provides good feedback, making the Highlander enjoyable to drive.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the 2020 Toyota Highlander is a testament to comfort and convenience. It features a spacious cabin, high-quality materials, and a wide array of technology features.
Interior Design and Materials
- Spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for all passengers
- High-quality materials, including soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and wood accents
- Ergonomic design with a driver-centric cockpit
- Comfortable seats with ample support
Technology Features
- Standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility
- Available 8-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment systems
- Standard six-speaker audio system with available 12-speaker JBL sound system
- Available navigation system
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring
- Available features like a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, and a wireless charging pad
Comfort and Convenience Features
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Power liftgate
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Multiple USB ports and a 12V outlet
Safety and Reliability, 2020 toyota highlander
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is renowned for its safety and reliability, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features and a proven track record of dependability.
Safety Features and Ratings
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver-assist features
- Available features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor
- Five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
- Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
Reliability and Maintenance History
Toyota vehicles are known for their reliability and durability, and the Highlander is no exception. It has a consistently high ranking in reliability surveys and enjoys a reputation for low maintenance costs. Toyota offers a comprehensive warranty coverage that includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Safety and Reliability Compared to Competitors
The 2020 Toyota Highlander consistently ranks among the safest and most reliable mid-size SUVs in its class. It often outperforms its competitors in safety ratings and reliability surveys, solidifying its reputation for safety and dependability.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious and comfortable interior | Fuel economy is average compared to some competitors |
| Powerful and efficient engine options | Base trim level lacks some standard features found in competitors |
| Comprehensive safety features | Some technology features are optional |
| High reliability and durability | Can be expensive, especially in higher trim levels |
| Excellent resale value | Handling is not as sporty as some competitors |
Target Audience and Use Cases
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is a versatile SUV that appeals to a wide range of drivers. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced safety features make it an ideal choice for families, commuters, and weekend adventurers.
Ideal Target Audience
- Families looking for a safe and spacious vehicle
- Commuters who want a comfortable and reliable ride
- Active individuals who enjoy weekend adventures
Common Use Cases
- Family transportation
- Daily commuting
- Weekend getaways
- Cargo hauling
Competitor Analysis
The 2020 Toyota Highlander faces stiff competition in the mid-size SUV segment, with several strong contenders vying for buyers’ attention. Some of its key competitors include:
- Honda Pilot:The Honda Pilot is a popular choice known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. It offers a similar level of safety and reliability as the Highlander.
- Ford Explorer:The Ford Explorer boasts a sporty design, powerful engine options, and advanced technology features. It offers a more rugged and off-road-capable option compared to the Highlander.
- Chevrolet Traverse:The Chevrolet Traverse is a spacious and versatile SUV with a comfortable interior and a smooth ride. It offers a wide range of trim levels and a competitive price point.
- Subaru Ascent:The Subaru Ascent is known for its all-wheel drive capability, spacious interior, and impressive safety features. It offers a more rugged and adventurous option compared to the Highlander.
The Highlander stands out from its competitors with its refined design, advanced technology, and reputation for reliability. It offers a balance of comfort, performance, and practicality, making it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment.
Concluding Remarks: 2020 Toyota Highlander
The 2020 Toyota Highlander emerges as a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a compelling combination of practicality, comfort, and performance. Its well-rounded package, encompassing spacious interiors, advanced technology, and a robust safety suite, makes it an ideal choice for families and individuals seeking a reliable and capable vehicle.
Whether navigating city streets or embarking on weekend adventures, the Highlander delivers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, solidifying its position as a top pick for discerning buyers.