The 2020 Toyota Highlander is a handsome choice among the midsize SUVs. It is on the verge of bringing in the Generation X and millennial families to walk straight to the Toyota dealerships to buy the 2020 redesigned Highlander. The Highlander debuts with Toyota's new SUV platform which is stiffer, lighter and bigger and will be deployed across all Toyota SUVs in the future. With those evolutionary updates the 2020 Toyota Highlander has some big shoes to fill in as the previous version of the Highlander still remains one of the best-selling midsize SUVs in the United States. The interior isn't feature-rich, but then we all know that Highlander's forte is carrying around people with the utmost comfort, and as perceived, it does a damn well good job in this field.
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Toyota has gone with an aggressive front end with a lot of faux bends blended into the design language. Toyota's mid-size SUV is available in L, LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum models. For electric lovers, the Highlander offers a hybrid engine that looks similar. The Interior work of this 3 row SUV is believed to draw inspiration from Toyota's very own luxury car brand "Lexus", but then Toyota doesn't stray away from the established Highlander formula.
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV front view
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV rear view
7.3/10 Features
7.5/10 Engine and Performance
7.8/10 Fuel Economy
7.5/10 Interior
8.4/10 Exterior
9.4/10 Safety
7.5/10 Competition
2020 Toyota Highlander Features
7.3/10
The Highlander is offered in five trims L, LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum. The L is the standard offering that would be available in the market. LE is a slightly higher version with standard upgraded quality and is only available as fleet cars.
Trims
L
LE
XLE
Limited
Platinum
MSRP
(FWD)
$34,600
$36,800
$39,600
$43,650
$46,850
MSRP
(AWD)
$36,200
$38,400
$41,200
$45,600
$48,800
Key Features
Color-keyed heated power outside mirrors
Adds/Upgrades to L
Adds/Upgrades to LE
Adds/Upgrades to XLE
Adds/Upgrades to Limited
Tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio
Blindspot Warning indicators
Color-keyed heated power outside mirrors with turn signal
LED projector headlights with LED-strip daytime running lights
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
DRCC-Dynamic Radar cruise control
Engine immobilizer Alarm
Tire pressure monitor systems
Power tilt moonroof with sunshade.
Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging
Integrated backup camera with projected path
Smart Stop Technology(SST)
Downhill assist control
Includes 11 subwoofer speakers
Heated second row
Smart Key System with lock, unlock and panic functions.
ECO Driving Indicator
Multi-terrain select with switches
Dynamic torque vectoring AWD.
Bird’s eye View Camera with Dynamic gridlines.
Automatic high beams
Wi-Fi Connect with up to 2GB within a 3-month trial.
8-inch infotainment screen
12.3 Inch infotainment screen
Digital Rear-view mirror with HomeLink Universal Transceiver
Remote keyless entry system with liftgate functions
JBL powered 11 speakers including subwoofer and amplifier.
Rear bumper scuff Plate
Which trim should you go for?
Regardless of which trim or powertrain you choose, the 2020 Toyota Highlander is a fuel-efficient choice that is definitely lighter on your wallet, while going on long road trips. We would recommend the value-packed XLE priced at $40,720 wherein you get plenty of good features for only a bit more money. This trim has the most value for money appeal.
2020 Toyota Highlander Engine and Performance
7.5/10
The only Achilles heel of the previous Generation Highlander was the naturally aspirated inline-four. The fourth-generation Highlander has more than enough power for your daily driving needs with smooth shifts from the transmission. In addition to the V6 model, a hybrid powertrain is also available. Both of them offer a varied arsenal of driver assists that enhance the performance.
With a higher price tag comes a greater thirst for power and hence the weak inline-four on the previous model is replaced with a rather powerful standard V6 engine, specifically a 3.5-liter V6 making 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque that sends power to all the wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5-Liter V6 has enough grunt to get this three-row crossover going.
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV engine bay
In our tests, we found that the V6 engine is quicker for shorter distances and also on long treks, there is no loss of power. The 3.5 L engine is punchier however there have been complaints about lack of smoothness after Toyota replaced the previous 6-speed with the 8-speed automatic transmission in 2020.
The 0-60 times of the vehicle of the earlier generation Toyota Highlander remains at 7.2 seconds. However, as the acceleration times for the 2020 Highlander models are not available yet. But we have no doubt that the 2020 version of the Highlander will be much more quicker, thanks to its bigger engine producing more horses.
2019 Toyota Highlander SUV hits 0-60 mph in Just 7.2* sec
The performance is however turned down by the 8-speed automatic transmission which gets busy at lower speeds and does not engage actively on shorter rides.
Models
2020 Toyota Highlander
2020 Kia Telluride
2020 Volkswagon Atlas
2020 Ford Explorer
0-60 MPH
7.2*sec
7.1 sec
7.9 sec
6.2 sec
Quarter Mile
15.5*sec
15.4 sec
16.0 sec
14.9 sec
Top Speed
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Engine
3.5L Naturally Aspirated V6
3.8L Naturally Aspirated V6
3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6
3.0 L EcoBoost V6
*2019 times have been taken as the 2020 version times are not available as of yet.
Handling of the 2020 Toyota Highlander puts it beside the average performing SUVs. Although it delivers a very potent package for people wanting to make the best out of the vehicle they own. The ride quality is turned down by the stiffer suspension. And for a fact, as it can seat 7 passengers comfortably, the handling is good, although not the best.
The steering isn’t the nimblest unit out there, as you might notice maneuverability issues around corners. Moreover, the handling characteristics make the Highlander feel less comfortable even after some notable improvements from the last model. The light chassis frame does improve its handling to an extent.
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV rear third quarter view
Toyota Highlander tailors the drive experience to your preference with a choice of Eco, Normal, Sport, snow. All-wheel-drive models see the addition of multi-terrain select which further refines vehicle systems with a choice of mud, sand, rock, dirt or normal. With a turning radius of 38.4 ft, taking U-Turns would require some preparation.
What about the Braking Performance of the Toyota Highlander?
The L, LE and XLE version comes with shorter 18-inch wheels, whereas the Limited and the Platinum versions come equipped with the larger 20-inch wheels. Braking in the vehicle is not impressive but then it does its job reasonably well in that respect to bring the vehicle into a halt. However, you won't feel insecure while driving the car on highways and city roads and because of the AWD setup, the SUV enjoys better grip and road hold on slippery roads.
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV brakes
The Toyota Highlander with a Hybrid engine also comes with a regenerative braking function that charges the battery pack installed inside it when you brake the vehicle. Regenerative braking function helps you cover some more miles in hybrid and electric vehicles.
Models
2020 Toyota Highlander
2020 Kia Telluride
2020 Volkswagen Atlas
2020 Ford Explorer
Brake Rotors Front
13.3"
13.4"
13.2"
12.8"
Brake Rotors Rear
13.3"
12.0"
12.2"
12.8"
Curb Weight
4330 lbs
4354 lbs
4343 lbs
4345 lbs
60-0 MPH
128 ft
120 ft
N.A
108 ft
The Ford Explorer scores an impressive stopping distance of 108 ft. This feat is achieved with the optional summer tires. However, the Toyota Highlander covers 20 feet more to stop at a similar speed even with greater brake rotor discs.
The 3.5-liter V6 engine offers a combined mpg of 23. It’s dynamic cruise control and the start-stop system works in pairs to increase fuel efficiency. The Front-wheel drive earns a 24-mpg combined estimate, while the all-wheel-drive just loses buy a mile in comparison.
Models
2020 Toyota Highlander
2020 Kia Telluride
2020 Volkswagen Atlas
2020 Ford Explorer
MPG (City)
20
19
17
21
MPG (Highway)
27
24
24
28
MPG (Combined)
23
21
19
24
Fuel Capacity
17.9 gallons
18.8 gallons
18.6 gallons
19.2 gallons
Range (City/Hwy/Combined)
384/518/411 miles
357/451/394 miles
316/446/353 miles
403/538/460 miles
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15k mi/yr)
6.4
7.0
7.6
7.4
Looking at the competition, the newly introduced Toyota Highlander delivers the segment-best fuel efficiency followed by the 2020 Kia Telluride which is appreciable considering it’s heavier than the rest.
2020 Toyota Highlander Interior
7.5/10
This is where Toyota has hit the ball out of the park. Toyota seems to have learned a lot from "Lexus" that starts with its improved interior material quality. The interior has a sturdy built which has been decorated with wood grains and metal inserts. The interior looks premium and rich with works that circulate better feeling for its driver. The all-new Toyota Highlander interior enjoys a balanced architecture which it's previous generation lacked.
You get a lot of elements on the inside that confine the true use of Lexus standard in a Toyota SUV. The seats are nicely scooped out that deploy comfort on longer rides. The climate control feature also does a fine job and is easy to operate. The top trims such as the Limited and the Platinum offers an impressive 1200-watt JBL sound system. Padding on the doors, center console and the roof is covered with premium quality material and the fit and finish of the dashboard are in par with other luxury cars, seems a Lexus though.
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV front seats
The Platinum trim also gets heated and ventilation function on rear seats. The front cabin enjoys a decent amount of legroom, shoulder room, and headroom. Space and comfort in the rear are boosted by the reclining as sliding functions that can be operated through the command center screen in the rear, but the operation feels fuzzy.
Models
2020 Toyota Highlander
2020 Kia Telluride
2019 Volkswagen Atlas
2020 Ford Explorer
Seating Capacity
5
5
5
5
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
41.2/59.0/42.0
40.9/61.6/44.1
41.3/61.5/41.5
40.7/61.8/43.0
Rear Row
(Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
39.4/58.7/41.0
40.2/61.2/42.4
40.4/60.8/37.6
40.5/61.9/39.0
The Highlanders competitors offer better usage of cabin space with more Passenger volume. Ford’s Explorer straightaway has the most spacious cabin space, with best in class Rear, Head and Shoulder room.
Infotainment
The Platinum is the only trim that benefits from a 12.3-inch screen, which is optional on the Limited trim well. But other than that all the other versions have a standard 8-inch infotainment screen. Nevertheless, the system requires a bit of getting used to, and we sincerely hope the Highlander rectifies this in the near future.
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV infotainment system
What are the infotainment features on offer in the Highlander?
Unlike the previous Toyotas, Apple Car Play and Android Auto are standard in the 2020 version. It also includes a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, Amazon Alexa and four USB ports. But then if you’re the kind of person who likes to blast his rap music till sundown, the Platinum trim would be perfect for you which comes equipped with a 12-speaker JBL audio system.
What are the interior features on offer in the Highlander?
The Interior of the Highlander does provide a few features that are contributing factors in making the interior quality and comfort that much better.
The wireless smartphone charging pad
Huge center console bin with dual access points
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Varied climate control zones
Power adjustable door mirrors
Cargo area light
How much Cargo can the Toyota Highlander take in?
A set of a stroller or golf clubs can easily be placed in the boot space with ease, while the third row is up. It has 60/40 folding seats in the second and third rows. The rear window can be opened for easy access to the boot. It is fairly easy to load/unload your luggage.
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV has 16.0 cu ft. cargo volume
What we miss in the Toyota Highlander is the touchless operating system of the rear cargo door, which comes as standard for the rest of its competition.
Models
2020 Toyota Highlander
2020 Kia Telluride
2020 Volkswagen Atlas
2020 Ford Explorer
Cargo Capacity
16.0 cu.ft.
21.0 cu.ft.
20.6 cu.ft.
18.2 cu.ft.
The Toyota Highlander offers the least cargo space behind the 3rd row at 16 cu-ft. Fold the second and third rows and then you get a massive 83.7 cu-ft of cargo space. At 21 cu-ft, Kia Telluride offers the most Cargo volume behind the third row.
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Interior2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Interior2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Interior2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Interior2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Dashboard2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Front Seats2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Seats
2020 Toyota Highlander Exterior
8.4/10
The all-new 2020 Toyota Highlander gets a more appealing visage than its previous generation. The latest-gen Toyota is a treat to look at. While front end might seem busy for some people, but that’s what makes it interesting, Toyota has gone up and beyond its normal design structure, which is a bold move by them. Toyota has made the Highlander Longer in length, shorter in Height with the roof lines flowing dramatically to the rear end.
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV third quarter view
The exterior design of the vehicle gets some purposely fitted exterior elements. The 20 inch brushed aluminum wheels and the character lines flowing through the rear fenders, brings modern era connectivity to its character. Styling remains on point. The Highlander comes with a generous chrome application at the front. The design comes off as pretty aggressive.
Models
2020 Toyota Highlander
2020 Kia Telluride
2020 Volkswagen Atlas
2020 Ford Explorer
Curb Weight
4330 lbs
4354 lbs
4343 lbs
4345 lbs
Length
194.9"
196.9"
198.3"
198.8"
Width
76.0"
78.3"
78.3"
78.9"
Height
68.1"
68.9"
70.0"
69.9"
Ground Clearance
8.0"
8.0"
8.0"
7.9"
Wheelbase
112.2"
114.2"
117.3"
119.1"
The Toyota Highlander has the smallest wheelbase of the bunch while having a decent ground clearance of 8-inch. As is evident from the above data, the smaller wheelbase of the Highlander translates to lesser passenger volume. Whereas the Explorer offers the most passenger volume.
What are the different exterior features on offer?
The 2020 Toyota Highlander has a lot of new features that the 2019 version didn’t have. Toyota’s newer design model has been the highlight which is evident enough in the new Highlander. A prominent Character line through the rear fender looks dope and is what differentiates it from the others in its segment.
Laminated panoramic moonroof with power sunshade.
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Standard 18 inch and optional 20-inch wheels
Rear window defroster
Hands-free power rear liftgate
LED headlights
2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Exterior2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Exterior2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Exterior2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Exterior2020 Toyota Highlander SUV Badge
2020 Toyota Highlander Safety
9.4/10
Toyota is one company that excels in providing safety. The Highlander works hard to justify itself as a Toyota breed, and its durable performance does go along with many segment topping SUVs. This SUV does prove its capability as an off-roader and indeed is reliable enough to last long as a daily driver.
Toyota’s biggest USP is its upgraded Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 which gives you all the required safety features and more. The overall safety ratings reflect a vehicle's performance in road tests and helps predict its safety prowess. The 2019 Toyota Highlander receives a 5-star rating from NHTSA. The Highlander performed well in overall safety tests conducted by IIHS. It checks all the boxes a genuine reliable vehicle would. We can wholeheartedly recommend this vehicle.
What are the Safety Features on offer In the Highlander?
Much like the 2019 model of the Highlander, the 2020 version of the Highlander comes packed with safety features including advanced driver safety aids such as the following.
Automatic Emergency Braking
Blindspot Monitor+ Rear cross-traffic Alert
Radar Cruise control
Lane Departure Warning
Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
Lane Tracing Assist System- It centers the Highlander in the intended lane of travel.
Pretensioners-Seatbelt pretensioners automatically tighten seatbelts to place the occupant in the optimal seating position during a collision
2020 Toyota Highlander Competition
7.5/10
Toyota Highlander vs Ford Explorer
Explorer’s 3.5-liter V6 eco-boost engine belts out 355 horsepower which is more than any other SUV in its segment. It is the longest three-row crossover in this segment and hence gives convenient third-row access. When it comes to convenience, the Explorer takes the Crown. Toyota has only two engines to offer-a 2.7-liter inline-four and a 3.5-liter V6. The Highlander offers more features than the Explorer but commands a higher price tag.
2020 Ford Explorer SUV
Toyota Highlander vs Kia Telluride
Kia Telluride is powered by a more powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine that generates 291 horsepower. In comparison, the gearbox on Kia Telluride is slightly better. That said, the Highlander depicts a rugged, yet intuitive American interior, whereas the Telluride has a more subtle design language. The Highlander offers better fuel economy, more features, better fit and finish inside and a lot more tech too. However, Kia has the advantage of a more friendly price tag.
2020 Kia Telluride SUV
Toyota Highlander vs Volkswagen Atlas
Yet another competitor in the way of Toyota Highlander is the Volkswagen Atlas, a resurgent SUV that makes a worthy mid-size SUV. The Volkswagen Atlas has a longer wheelbase for more passenger volume. This mid-size SUV puts practicality and functionality at the core. The SUV is joined by a reliable engine and transmission unit that performs much better in its segment and delivers a punchier boost of power when you need it. With all these good characters the Volkswagen Atlas remains a better consideration in the segment.
2020 Volkswagen Atlas SUV
2020 Toyota Highlander Final Verdict
With the 2020 Toyota Highlander, the good definitely gets better. Toyota has brought its A-game full speed ahead to go up against all of the other car manufacturers. It might not be the best in its three-row segment, but it is highly capable and far better than its predecessor. If you want a vehicle with good fuel efficiency, intuitive interior features, plush ride and looks that remain strict to commuter vehicles, the 2020 Toyota Highlander is the preferable choice.
Pros - AWD, power trunk door, steering wheel controls
Cons - Mpg for sure, hopping into third row
Overall Review
10 /10 Overall Rating
Call it an offroader or family suv with a space of 7, nothing can go out of tune under the hood for any Toyota.
10/10
Features
10/10
Interior
10/10
Design
10/10
Safety
10/10
Reliability
10/10
Deal Value
9/10
Dealer Review
SK
Samuel K. King
2020 Toyota Highlander
Limited 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
7
User Overall Rating
Posted On: October 7, 2020
Over sensitive ABS
Pros - Mostly everything
Cons - Sensitive ABS
Overall Review
7 /10 Overall Rating
Hard braking always results in weird sound that has never been helpful for the driving. I have been told its the ABS that kicks in when flooring the pedal at medium speeds to maintain traction but I still doubt if these are the signs of a good anti lock tech. A few instances, the brake pedal kicks back as if it was not supposed to be pressed
9/10
Features
8/10
Interior
8/10
Design
9/10
Safety
7/10
Reliability
10/10
Deal Value
6/10
Dealer Review
TH
Theodore I. Hayes
2020 Toyota Highlander
Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
9
User Overall Rating
Posted On: October 7, 2020
Everything standard
Pros - Different driving modes, all weather mats for the floor, adaptive cruise control
Cons - Sluggish nature
Overall Review
9 /10 Overall Rating
Drives smooth and comes with multiple drive modes to get most out of it. Sure no driving mode is able to give it a boost in acceleration response which always feels sluggish in nature but features like adaptive cruise controls covers up the deal
Call it an offroader or family suv with a space of 7, nothing can go out of tune under the hood for any Toyota.
by Jimmy V. Nichols
7
User Overall Rating
Over sensitive ABS
Hard braking always results in weird sound that has never been helpful for the driving. I have been told its the ABS that kicks in when flooring the pedal at medium speeds to maintain traction but I still doubt if these are the signs of a good anti lock tech. A few instances, the brake pedal kicks back as if it was not supposed to be pressed
by Samuel K. King
9
User Overall Rating
Everything standard
Drives smooth and comes with multiple drive modes to get most out of it. Sure no driving mode is able to give it a boost in acceleration response which always feels sluggish in nature but features like adaptive cruise controls covers up the deal
by Theodore I. Hayes
8
User Overall Rating
Full of issues
Lows and highs (mostly lows). Handling is on the firmer side and parking has been a real pain since day one especially there are no parking sensors provided. Stop and go also is a feature which has been there to pave against driving without any significant impact on the mileage for which it was made at the first place
by Oscar J. Shepherd
9
User Overall Rating
Highlander is on high
With the size and built of Highlander, it's not easy to drive it around in city and that's the only issue I feel it has. Handling is a little firmer than our old corolla but something we got used to. A lot of features to look forward to in such competitive pricing from Toyota.
