The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size crossover SUV that has been a staple in the automotive market for over two decades. Known for its reliability, spacious interior, and robust performance, the Highlander has earned a loyal following among families and road trippers alike. As we reflect on the 2020 model year, the question remains: is 2020 a good year for Highlander? In this article, we will delve into the world of the 2020 Toyota Highlander, exploring its features, performance, safety, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to the 2020 Toyota Highlander
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is a fourth-generation model, which underwent a significant redesign for the 2020 model year. This new generation brought about a fresh exterior design, an updated interior, and a plethora of innovative features. The 2020 Highlander is available in six trim levels: L, LE, XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum. Each trim offers a unique set of features, allowing buyers to choose the perfect combination of comfort, technology, and performance to suit their needs.
Design and Features
One of the most notable aspects of the 2020 Toyota Highlander is its bold new exterior design. The front fascia features a larger grille, sleeker headlights, and a more aggressive stance. The rear of the vehicle boasts a redesigned tailgate, new taillights, and a sportier bumper. The overall design is more aerodynamic and visually appealing, making the Highlander a head-turner on the road. Inside, the cabin is equipped with premium materials, including available leather-trimmed seats, a panoramic moonroof, and a massive 12.3-inch infotainment display.
Engine and Performance
The 2020 Toyota Highlander comes with two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a hybrid powertrain. The V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid model combines a 2.0-liter inline-four engine with an electric motor to produce 240 horsepower. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offer front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive capabilities. In terms of performance, the Highlander delivers smooth acceleration, responsive handling, and a comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for daily driving and road trips.
Safety Features and Ratings
When it comes to safety, the 2020 Toyota Highlander is a top contender. The vehicle boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Highlander comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including:
- Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) suite, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Rearview camera with dynamic gridlines
- Seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and a passenger seat cushion airbag
Interior Space and Comfort
The 2020 Toyota Highlander offers plenty of interior space for passengers and cargo. The vehicle seats up to eight people, depending on the configuration, and features 40/20/40 split-folding second-row seats and 60/40 split-folding third-row seats. With all seats in place, the Highlander offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 40.6 cubic feet with the third row folded and 73.3 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The interior is also equipped with numerous storage compartments, including a large center console, door pockets, and a glove box.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2020 Toyota Highlander features a modern and intuitive infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen display on lower trims and a 12.3-inch display on higher trims. The system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, allowing for seamless connectivity and entertainment on the go. Other notable features include a 11-speaker JBL premium audio system, wireless charging, and a 120V power outlet in the cargo area.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2020 Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a mid-size crossover SUV. With its bold new design, robust performance, and impressive safety features, the Highlander is a top contender in its class. Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle, a road trip companion, or a daily driver, the 2020 Toyota Highlander is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. So, is 2020 a good year for Highlander? The answer is a resounding yes.
What are the key features of the 2020 Highlander?
The 2020 Highlander boasts an impressive array of features, including a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a robust all-wheel-drive system. Additionally, the vehicle comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features not only enhance the overall driving experience but also provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. The interior of the Highlander is also noteworthy, with premium materials, ample cargo space, and seating for up to eight passengers.
In terms of technology, the 2020 Highlander is well-equipped with features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium JBL sound system. The vehicle also offers a range of convenient features, such as a power liftgate, a panoramic moonroof, and a 360-degree camera system. With its impressive list of standard and optional features, the 2020 Highlander is an attractive option for those seeking a versatile and feature-rich midsize SUV. Whether you’re looking for a reliable family vehicle or a comfortable and capable adventure companion, the Highlander is certainly worth considering.
How does the 2020 Highlander perform in terms of fuel efficiency?
The 2020 Highlander offers respectable fuel efficiency, with an estimated EPA rating of up to 24 mpg combined. This is achieved through a combination of the vehicle’s efficient engine, advanced transmission, and aerodynamic design. In city driving, the Highlander can achieve an estimated 21 mpg, while highway driving yields an estimated 27 mpg. These numbers make the Highlander a competitive option in its class, and its fuel efficiency is sure to appeal to those seeking a practical and cost-effective midsize SUV. Additionally, the vehicle’s fuel tank capacity of 19.2 gallons means that drivers can enjoy longer road trips without needing to stop for fuel as frequently.
For those seeking even greater fuel efficiency, the 2020 Highlander also offers a hybrid model, which pairs a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor. This hybrid powertrain achieves an estimated EPA rating of up to 36 mpg combined, making it an attractive option for eco-conscious drivers. The hybrid model also offers a range of benefits, including reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and a smoother, more quiet driving experience. With its impressive fuel efficiency and range of powertrain options, the 2020 Highlander is an excellent choice for those seeking a practical and environmentally friendly midsize SUV.
What safety features does the 2020 Highlander offer?
The 2020 Highlander prioritizes safety, with a range of advanced features designed to protect drivers and passengers. One of the most notable safety features is the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The vehicle also offers a range of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, as well as a rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring. Additionally, the Highlander features a robust body structure and a comprehensive safety cage, which helps to absorb and distribute the forces of an impact in the event of a collision.
In terms of safety ratings, the 2020 Highlander has earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is also a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These impressive ratings reflect the vehicle’s commitment to safety and its ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. With its advanced safety features, robust design, and excellent safety ratings, the 2020 Highlander is an excellent choice for families, commuters, and anyone seeking a safe and reliable midsize SUV.
How does the 2020 Highlander handle on the road?
The 2020 Highlander offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, with a comfortable ride and precise handling. The vehicle’s suspension system is designed to absorb bumps and uneven road surfaces, providing a quiet and composed ride even on rough roads. The steering is also noteworthy, with a precise and responsive feel that makes the Highlander easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, the vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and control, making it well-suited for a range of driving conditions, from dry pavement to snow and ice.
In terms of performance, the 2020 Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6 engine provides ample power and acceleration, making it easy to merge onto highways or pass other vehicles on the road. The vehicle’s 8-speed automatic transmission also helps to provide smooth and seamless shifting, even in hilly or mountainous terrain. With its comfortable ride, precise handling, and robust performance, the 2020 Highlander is an excellent choice for those seeking a midsize SUV that is both practical and enjoyable to drive. Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the Highlander is sure to provide a pleasant and engaging driving experience.
What are the trim levels and options available for the 2020 Highlander?
The 2020 Highlander is available in a range of trim levels, including the L, LE, XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum. Each trim level offers a unique set of features and options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to suit their needs and preferences. The base L trim comes well-equipped with features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a range of advanced safety features. The higher trim levels add features like leather upholstery, a moonroof, and a premium sound system, as well as a range of convenience features like a power liftgate and a 360-degree camera system.
In addition to the standard trim levels, the 2020 Highlander also offers a range of options and packages, allowing buyers to further customize their vehicle. For example, the tow package adds a range of features like a heavy-duty radiator and a 150-amp alternator, making it easier to tow trailers and boats. The panoramic moonroof package adds a large, panoramic moonroof and a range of other features like a power sunshade and a rear-seat entertainment system. With its range of trim levels and options, the 2020 Highlander offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a practical and affordable midsize SUV or a luxurious and feature-rich vehicle.
Is the 2020 Highlander a good option for families?
The 2020 Highlander is an excellent option for families, with a range of features and amenities designed to make road trips and daily commutes more comfortable and convenient. The vehicle’s spacious interior provides ample room for passengers and cargo, with seating for up to eight passengers and a maximum cargo capacity of 84.7 cubic feet. The Highlander also offers a range of family-friendly features, such as a rear-seat entertainment system, a range of cupholders and storage bins, and a convenient power liftgate. Additionally, the vehicle’s advanced safety features and excellent safety ratings provide peace of mind for families, knowing that they are protected in the event of a collision.
In terms of practicality, the 2020 Highlander is also a great option for families, with a range of features designed to make daily life easier. For example, the vehicle’s sliding second-row seats make it easy to access the third row, even when child seats are installed. The Highlander also offers a range of convenient features like a hands-free power liftgate and a 360-degree camera system, making it easier to load and unload cargo, even in tight spaces. With its spacious interior, family-friendly features, and practical design, the 2020 Highlander is an excellent choice for families seeking a comfortable, convenient, and safe midsize SUV.
What is the resale value of the 2020 Highlander?
The 2020 Highlander is known for its excellent resale value, with a range of factors contributing to its strong retention of value. One of the most significant factors is the vehicle’s reputation for reliability and durability, with Toyota’s reputation for building long-lasting and dependable vehicles. Additionally, the Highlander’s popularity and strong sales numbers also help to drive up demand and maintain its resale value. According to data from Kelley Blue Book, the 2020 Highlander is expected to retain around 60% of its original purchase price after three years, making it one of the top midsize SUVs in terms of resale value.
In terms of specific resale value, the 2020 Highlander’s value will depend on a range of factors, including the trim level, options, and condition of the vehicle. However, as a general rule, the Highlander tends to hold its value well, even after several years of ownership. For example, a 2020 Highlander Limited with a V6 engine and all-wheel drive may retain around 55-60% of its original purchase price after five years, while a base model L trim may retain around 50-55%. With its strong resale value, the 2020 Highlander is an excellent choice for those seeking a midsize SUV that will hold its value over time.