Toyota continues its legacy of producing reliable and family-friendly vehicles with the 2020 Toyota Highlander. This fourth-generation SUV has been completely redesigned, offering enhanced fuel efficiency, a bold new look, and advanced technology, making it a top choice in the competitive midsize SUV market. For families seeking a versatile, safe, and comfortable vehicle, the Toyota Highlander Cars stand out as a compelling option.
A Legacy of Family SUVs: The Toyota Highlander Story
When the original Toyota Highlander debuted in 2001, it redefined the midsize SUV category. Unlike many truck-based SUVs of the time, the Highlander adopted a unibody construction and independent suspension, prioritizing comfort and car-like handling. This innovative approach set a new standard for family SUVs. As families grew, so did the Highlander, adding a third row and becoming the best-selling retail model in its segment since 2016. The toyota highlander cars have consistently delivered on reliability and family needs.
Introducing the 2020 Toyota Highlander: Redesigned for Modern Families
The 2020 Toyota Highlander marks a significant leap forward. Built on the new Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-K) platform, this generation enhances all the qualities Highlander is known for – safety, comfort, quality, and reliability – while introducing a striking new design. The toyota highlander cars in this iteration boast a more sophisticated and powerful SUV presence with refined details. This robust platform not only improves driving dynamics but also contributes to increased cabin quietness and overall vehicle refinement.
Bold New Design and Enhanced Performance
The exterior of the 2020 Highlander presents a sculpted and athletic stance. Its chiseled lines and modern sophistication elevate its visual appeal, making it stand out whether navigating city streets or embarking on family adventures. Despite its bolder appearance, the toyota highlander cars remain incredibly functional and aerodynamic, reducing wind noise and improving stability.
The 2020 model is slightly longer than its predecessor, adding valuable cargo space. The TNGA-K platform’s high-strength steel construction not only enhances safety but also allows for a more finely tuned suspension, resulting in improved agility, a tighter turning radius, and a smoother, quieter ride. Toyota’s takumi master craftsmen have meticulously focused on even the smallest details, ensuring a premium driving experience in all conditions, especially at everyday speeds, reinforcing the quality associated with toyota highlander cars.
Powertrain Options: V6 Power and Hybrid Efficiency
The 2020 Highlander provides a choice of powertrains to suit different needs: a robust V6 engine and a next-generation hybrid system. The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 295 horsepower, offering a smooth and powerful driving experience. Its advanced D-4S Injection system optimizes fuel efficiency and performance. For those prioritizing fuel economy, the toyota highlander cars hybrid version is a game-changer.
The new-generation Toyota Hybrid System pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, resulting in 240 total system horsepower and an impressive manufacturer-estimated 34 MPG combined fuel economy. This marks a 17% improvement over the previous hybrid model. Notably, the hybrid is now available in both 2WD and AWD configurations, expanding the appeal of toyota highlander cars to a broader range of buyers seeking efficiency without compromising capability.
Safety First: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and Advanced Features
Safety is paramount for families, and the toyota highlander cars prioritize it with standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) on all models. This comprehensive suite of active safety technologies includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)
- Automatic High Beam (AHB)
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
- Road Sign Assist (RSA)
These features work together to enhance driver awareness and provide active assistance to help prevent accidents. Additional available safety features like Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) further enhance safety, reinforcing the commitment of toyota highlander cars to passenger protection.
Interior Comfort and Versatility: Designed for Passengers and Cargo
Inside, the 2020 Highlander offers a refined and spacious cabin designed for maximum comfort and versatility. Seating configurations for seven or eight passengers are available, depending on the trim level and second-row seat choice (bench or captain’s chairs). The toyota highlander cars ensure easy access to the third row with large rear doors and versatile seat folding mechanisms. Even third-row passengers enjoy comfort with standard three-zone climate control.
Cargo space is generous, offering 16.1 cu. ft. behind the third row, expanding to 40.6 cu. ft. with the third row folded, and a maximum of 73.3 cu. ft. with both the second and third rows folded. The interior design emphasizes premium materials and a tailored look, creating a luxurious ambiance within the toyota highlander cars. Sound-damping materials throughout the vehicle minimize noise, ensuring a quiet and pleasant ride for all occupants.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Connectivity
The 2020 Highlander is equipped with the latest multimedia and connectivity features to keep everyone entertained and connected. Standard features across all grades include Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, Amazon Alexa compatibility, Waze navigation, SiriusXM®, and Wi-Fi connectivity. An 8-inch touchscreen is standard, with a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen available on the Platinum grade.
For audiophiles, the available JBL Premium Sound System delivers exceptional audio quality with 1,200 watts of power through 11 speakers. These technology features ensure the toyota highlander cars are well-equipped for the demands of modern families.
Exploring the 2020 Toyota Highlander Trim Levels
The 2020 Toyota Highlander comes in five grades, each offering a different level of features and amenities to cater to various needs and preferences. Understanding the trim levels helps buyers choose the toyota highlander cars that best fits their requirements:
- L: The base L grade is well-equipped with standard TSS 2.0, 18-inch alloy wheels, three-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and LED lighting.
- LE: Building upon the L, the LE adds a power liftgate, Blind Spot Monitor, LED fog lamps, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.
- XLE: The XLE enhances comfort and convenience with features like heated front seats, SofTex®-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, roof rails, and second-row sunshades.
- Limited: The Limited trim adds a touch of luxury with leather-trimmed seats (perforated), heated and ventilated front seats, a JBL Premium Audio System, embedded navigation, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
- Platinum: The top-of-the-line Platinum grade offers ultimate luxury with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, panoramic moonroof, head-up display, heated second-row seats, and a unique bird’s eye view camera.
Advanced All-Wheel Drive Systems for Any Condition
Toyota offers a range of all-wheel-drive systems for the toyota highlander cars, ensuring confident handling in various driving conditions. For V6 models, an optional AWD system distributes torque to the rear wheels when needed. The Limited and Platinum grades offer Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Driveline Disconnect, which not only manages torque distribution between the front and rear but also between the left and right rear wheels for enhanced agility.
The Highlander Hybrid also offers AWD, utilizing a separate rear-mounted electric motor for on-demand rear-wheel power. These AWD systems provide enhanced traction and stability, making toyota highlander cars suitable for diverse climates and terrains.
Toyota Highlander Cars: Unmatched Value and Reliability
Toyota is renowned for its exceptional value and long-term reliability, and the toyota highlander cars continue this tradition. Backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty and ToyotaCare complimentary maintenance plan, owners can enjoy peace of mind. The Highlander’s reputation for durability and dependability makes it a smart and lasting investment for families.
Conclusion:
The 2020 Toyota Highlander represents a significant evolution in the midsize SUV segment. With its bold design, enhanced performance, fuel-efficient powertrain options, advanced safety features, and family-friendly interior, the toyota highlander cars stand out as a top contender for families seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle. Whether you prioritize fuel economy with the hybrid model or powerful performance with the V6, the Highlander delivers a compelling package that meets the diverse needs of today’s families. Consider the 2020 Toyota Highlander for your next family SUV and experience the difference that quality, innovation, and thoughtful design can make.
