A sculpted new shape with chiselled lines gives the 2020 Highlander a more powerful stance, yet with a modern, sophisticated attitude. The 2020 Highlander remains a family-friendly SUV, but now includes even more capability for bigger family adventures.
Looking sporty does not come at the expense of practicality in the 2020 Highlander. A second-row bench for seating for eight is standard, while a Captain’s Chair second row with seating for seven is optional on higher grades. Either way, the large rear doors provide easy access, while versatile seat folding features make it easy to enter the third row.
With all seat rows in use, Highlander offers 456 L (16.1 cu. ft.) of carrying space behind the third row. Folding the 60/40 split fold-flat third-row seatbacks opens the space to 1150 L (40.6 cu. ft.), and then folding the second row raises that to 2076 L (73.3 cu. ft.).
The 2020 Highlander offers a choice between two advanced powertrains, a gas V6 or a new version of the Toyota Hybrid System. On V6 models, that translates into 295 horsepower and 263 lb.-ft. of torque, which further translates into exemplary everyday performance and a generous 5,000-pound towing capability.
The new-generation Toyota Hybrid System in the 2020 Highlander Hybrid combines a high-efficiency 2.5-litre DOHC four-cylinder engine with two electric motors in a system that’s more compact, and more efficient than before. The bottom line is an eye opener for the efficiency-minded: 240 total system horsepower and an estimated 6.9 L/100 km combined fuel consumption.
The 2020 Highlander gets a grip on any road with a choice of front-wheel drive or three different available all-wheel drive systems — two for the V6 models and a unique AWD system for the Highlander Hybrid. For the Highlander Gas LE and XLE models, the standard AWD system can send up to 50 per cent of available torque to the rear wheels to counter wheel slip when necessary.
In addition, Highlander models include the following features for optimal on-road and off-road performance and safety:
Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
Downhill Assist Control (DAC)
As with the AWD system in the previous Highlander Hybrid, the 2020 model’s standard AWD employs a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed. Like the hybrid powertrain itself, the AWD works seamlessly and transparently.
The 2020 Highlander is equipped with the second-generation of Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0). Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) are standard on all grades. Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB) is available with clearance sonar on Limited and above.
The standard backup camera features projected path. A Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan, available on Limited and standard on Platinum, provides a live rotating 360-degree view around the vehicle.
The 2020 Highlander is equipped with eight airbags, including side curtain airbags for all three rows. Toyota’s Star Safety System includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).
To explore all that the 2020 Highlander has to offer, click the TEST DRIVE button below and enjoy a complete tour and road test at your convenience.
