The 2020 Toyota Highlander sets the stage for this enthralling narrative, offering readers a glimpse into a story that is rich in detail and brimming with originality from the outset. This mid-size SUV, known for its reliability and spacious interior, has become a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a comfortable and capable vehicle.
The 2020 model year brought with it a redesigned exterior, a more refined interior, and a host of new technology features, making the Highlander an even more compelling option in the competitive SUV market.
From its sleek exterior lines to its advanced safety features, the 2020 Toyota Highlander is a well-rounded vehicle that offers something for everyone. The Highlander’s practicality is evident in its spacious cabin, versatile cargo space, and fuel-efficient powertrain options.
The Highlander’s reputation for reliability and low ownership costs further solidify its position as a smart choice for discerning buyers.
2020 Toyota Highlander: A Comprehensive Review
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that has been a popular choice for families and individuals alike for its reliability, practicality, and comfortable ride. It boasts a spacious interior, a wide range of features, and a powerful engine that delivers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
This comprehensive review will delve into the key aspects of the 2020 Highlander, examining its design, performance, technology, and overall value proposition.
Overview
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is a three-row SUV that offers seating for up to eight passengers. It’s built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which provides a more rigid structure and improved handling characteristics. The Highlander is available in a variety of trim levels, each offering different features and options.
The base L trim comes standard with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, while the higher trims, such as the XLE, Limited, and Platinum, are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The Highlander also offers a hybrid powertrain option in the Hybrid and Limited Hybrid trims.
Design and Styling
The 2020 Toyota Highlander features a bold and modern design that distinguishes it from previous models. The front fascia is characterized by a large, prominent grille with chrome accents, sleek headlights, and a sculpted hood. The side profile showcases sharp lines and a rising beltline that gives the Highlander a sporty and dynamic appearance.
The rear end is equally stylish, with wraparound taillights and a chrome trim piece that connects them.The interior of the Highlander is equally impressive, with a high-quality design and comfortable seating. The dashboard is driver-focused, with easy-to-use controls and a large touchscreen display.
The seats are well-padded and supportive, offering ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. Higher trims feature premium materials such as leather upholstery and wood trim, adding to the overall luxurious feel.
Performance and Handling
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for both city driving and highway cruising, making it a capable choice for families and individuals alike.
The Highlander is also available with a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. The hybrid system delivers impressive fuel economy without sacrificing performance.The Highlander’s handling is precise and responsive, thanks to its TNGA platform and well-tuned suspension.
The ride quality is comfortable and smooth, absorbing bumps and dips in the road with ease. The Highlander also offers a variety of driving modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to their preferences.
Technology and Features
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is packed with technology and features, making it a highly desirable vehicle in its class. The infotainment system features a large touchscreen display that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system also includes navigation, a premium sound system, and a suite of connected services.The Highlander is also equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
These features help to enhance driver safety and peace of mind.
Space and Comfort, 2020 toyota highlander
The 2020 Toyota Highlander offers ample space for passengers and cargo. The second row seats are spacious and comfortable, while the third row is suitable for smaller passengers or occasional use. The Highlander also offers a generous amount of cargo space, with over 84 cubic feet of space behind the first row and 16 cubic feet behind the third row.The Highlander’s interior is designed with comfort in mind.
The seats are well-padded and supportive, and the cabin is well-insulated from road noise. The air conditioning system is effective at keeping the cabin cool and comfortable, even on hot days.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
Toyota is known for its reliable vehicles, and the Highlander is no exception. It has consistently received high ratings for reliability from organizations such as J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The Highlander’s reputation for reliability is further supported by its long warranty coverage, which includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.The Highlander’s ownership costs are relatively low.
Its fuel economy is good, and its maintenance costs are typically lower than those of its competitors. The Highlander also holds its value well, making it a good investment for those looking for a reliable and long-lasting vehicle.
Competition and Comparison
The 2020 Toyota Highlander faces stiff competition in the mid-size SUV segment, with rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Traverse. The Highlander stands out from the competition with its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride.The Honda Pilot is a strong contender, offering a similar level of practicality and comfort.
The Ford Explorer is known for its powerful engine options and advanced technology features. The Chevrolet Traverse is a value-oriented choice, offering a spacious interior at a competitive price.
User Reviews and Feedback
| Source | Pros | Cons | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edmunds | Spacious interior, comfortable ride, reliable engine | Some infotainment features are clunky, third-row space is limited | 4.5/5 stars |
| Kelley Blue Book | Excellent fuel economy, impressive safety features, stylish design | Base engine is underpowered, handling is not as sharp as some competitors | 4/5 stars |
| Consumer Reports | High reliability, comfortable ride, good value for money | Infotainment system is not as intuitive as some rivals, third row is cramped | 4/5 stars |
User feedback consistently highlights the Highlander’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reliable engine. Some users have noted that the infotainment system can be clunky at times, and the third row is cramped. Overall, however, the Highlander receives high marks for its overall value and performance.
Final Summary
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of style, practicality, and performance. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and reliable powertrains make it a great option for families and individuals alike.
While the Highlander may not be the sportiest or most luxurious SUV in its class, its well-rounded nature and value proposition make it a solid choice for those seeking a dependable and capable vehicle.