Starting at $35,775
8/10
C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
![2020 Toyota Highlander / Highlander Hybrid Review, Pricing, and Specs (2) 2020 Toyota Highlander / Highlander Hybrid Review, Pricing, and Specs (2)](https://i0.wp.com/hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/2020-toyota-highlander-platinum-157-1576621500.jpg?crop=0.726xw:0.886xh;0.143xw,0.114xh&resize=768:*)
Toyota
8/10 C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
- Highs Handsomely styled, fuel-sipping hybrid option, well equipped even at the base level.
- Lows Boring driving dynamics, snug third row, busy dashboard design.
- Verdict As a fashionable high-quality family SUV, the 2020 Highlander excels.
Overview
With plenty of room to haul the fam and your stuff, the 2020 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid are two handsome options in the mid-size-SUV segment that carry Toyota's rock-solid reputation for reliability. With three rows of seating and plenty of cargo space, these utes are practical choices, even though rivals such as the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade offer slightly more value. Toyota's mid-size SUV is new for 2020 and offers many useful features not found in the outgoing Highlander. Both a gasoline V-6 and a hybridized four-cylinder are available, and the Highlander delivers a smooth ride and a quiet cabin. Many driver-assistance features are standard across the range, including automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
What's New for 2020?
Toyota has revamped the Highlander for 2020. It's vastly improved compared with the 2019 model it replaces. Next year, a sportier-looking XSE model will join the lineup.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2020 Toyota Highlander starts at $35,775 and goes up to $48,025 depending on the trim and options.
In our view, the mid-range XLE is the pick of the litter. It has heated front seats, a wireless smartphone-charging pad, and a power sunroof, among other niceties. We'd also spring for the Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation package, which brings in-dash navigation and an upgraded stereo system. All-wheel drive will add $1600 to the bottom line. And opting for the hybrid powertrain over the standard V-6 will cost an extra $1400.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Highlander comes with a 295-hp 3.5-liter V-6, which pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive. During a brief test drive, we found the V-6 could tackle short on-ramps reasonably enough; at our test track, our all-wheel drive test vehicle made it to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. We haven't had the chance to take the new Highlander to the track, but we'll update this story with test results once we do. Handling is unexciting but stable, and the ride is perfectly suitable for family-chauffer duty. More driving enjoyment can be found in the Mazda CX-9.
Hybrid Powertrain
A 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors team up for a combined 243 horsepower in the Highlander Hybrid. This model comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and a choice between front- and all-wheel drive. Leveraging Toyota's hybrid expertise, this powertrain provides buyers with something more fuel efficient than the standard model. The tradeoff likely will come in acceleration performance, both due to the hybrid's lower horsepower rating and the fact that this model uses a CVT instead of the nonhybrid's eight-speed automatic. At our test track, the hybrid model made it to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. Potential buyers in this segment will perhaps know that the Ford Explorer comes in hybrid form, too. But pitting these utes against each other, the Toyota comes out on top in terms of fuel economy, and the Highlander Hybrid's starting price of $39,320 is a whopping $14,155 less than the Explorer Hybrid's.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA estimates that the 2020 Highlander V-6 will deliver up to 29 mpg on the highway when equipped with front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive cuts that by 2 mpg. Hybrid models carry higher ratings, with front-wheel-drive variants earning 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. We've tested the standard Highlander on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy route, where it delivered the 28 mpg. When the hybrid visits our office, we'll be putting its fuel efficiency to the test on the same route.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
For 2020, the Highlander gets an interior makeover to match its updated exterior styling. Base L and mid-range LE models can seat eight passengers using bench seats in the second and third rows, but a seven-seat arrangement with second-row captain's chairs is available on higher trims. Passenger space is more generous here than in the CX-9, but not as spacious as in the Chevrolet Traverse, especially in the third row. Materials throughout the cabin are much improved over those in the last-generation Highlander. Upscale Limited and Platinum models provide the most creature comforts, but compared with the features proffered by the Palisade or Telluride, they fall short. The cargo area behind the third row fit a mere four carry-on suitcases; the Traverse fit six.
View Photos
Infotainment and Connectivity
An 8.0-inch infotainment system comes standard on most trims, but the Highlander Limited and Platinum get a 12.3-inch display. An 11-speaker JBL audio system is available. Toyota provides SiriusXM satellite radio, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration for all models.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
View Crash Test Results
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Highlander a five-star safety rating; the Highlander was also named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). As is the Toyota way, the 2020 Highlander offers a standard suite of driver-assistance features. The package includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and automatic high-beam headlamps. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross-traffic alert
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Toyota's warranty coverage adheres to the norm of the segment; however, buyers get two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance, which is a nice perk that most rivals don't offer. The electrified Highlander comes with a separate hybrid-component warranty that provides eight years or 100,000 miles of coverage.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Hybrid-component warranty covers eight years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles
Specifications
Specifications
2020 Toyota Highlander
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, front- or all-wheel-drive, 7- or 8-passenger, 4-door wagon
BASE PRICE
L, $35,720; LE, $37,920; LE Hybrid, $39,320; XLE, $40,720; XLE Hybrid, $42,120, Limited, $44,770; Limited Hybrid, $46,170; Platinum, $47,970; Platinum Hybrid, $49,370
POWERTRAIN
DOHC 16-valve Atkinson-cycle 2.5-liter inline-4, 186 hp, 175 lb-ft + 2 or 3 AC motors (combined output, 243 hp); DOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V-6, 295 hp, 263 lb-ft
TRANSMISSIONS
continuously variable automatic, 8-speed automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 112.2 in
Length: 194.9 in
Width: 76.0 in
Height: 68.1 in
Passenger volume: 135–141 cu ft
Trunk volume: 16 cu ft
Curb weight (C/D est): 4200–4650 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 6.8–8.2 sec
100 mph: 18.2–19.5 sec
¼-mile: 15.3–16.6 sec
Top speed: 115 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY(C/DEST)
Combined/city/highway: 23–36/20–36/27–35 mpg
More Features and Specs
Shopping Tools
What's My Car Worth?
Car and Driver values are calculated from the same Black Book® data dealers use to appraise vehicles.
Get Estimate
Insurance Marketplace
See what you can save on car insurance.
Learn More
Auto Loans & Financing
Our finance experts answer any questions you may have about financing a vehicle.
Learn More
Similar Vehicles
2024 Kia Telluride
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$37,585
EPA MPG
20–22 combined
C/D SAYS: The Telluride offers a generous set of standard features, and its top trim delivers a premium experience that's comparable to SUVs that cost far more. Learn More
Kia Telluride Model Years
- View 2024 Telluride DetailsStarting at $37,585 · 10/10
- View 2023 Telluride DetailsStarting at $37,255 · 10/10
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,465
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Toyota expands the Highlander SUV lineup—literally—with the introduction of the stretched 2024 Grand Highlander. Learn More
2024 Mazda CX-90
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$39,220
EPA MPG
25 combined
C/D SAYS: Mazda has grown its presence in the mid-size SUV market with the 2024 CX-90, which features three rows, more luxury, and six-cylinder power. Learn More
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$57,345
EPA MPG
23 combined
C/D SAYS: For those who bemoaned the death of the Land Cruiser in 2021—ourselves included—your prayers have been answered: Toyota has resurrected the off-road icon. Learn More
2024 Ford Bronco
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,525
EPA MPG
17–20 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Ford Bronco continues to bring significant competition to Jeep and we're happy to watch them roll in the mud. Learn More
Ford Bronco Model Years
- View 2024 Bronco DetailsStarting at $41,525 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 Bronco DetailsStarting at $36,785 · 10/10
2024 Ford Bronco Raptor
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$91,930
EPA MPG
15 combined
C/D SAYS: If you're lusting for an SUV with extreme levels of performance, the 2024 Ford Bronco Raptor is an off-road predator with surprising versatility. Learn More
Ford Bronco Raptor Model Years
- View 2024 Bronco Raptor DetailsStarting at $91,930 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 Bronco Raptor DetailsStarting at $82,475 · 10/10
2024 Hyundai Palisade
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$38,045
EPA MPG
21–22 combined
C/D SAYS: With a high-class cabin, a smooth ride, and space for the whole family, the three-row Hyundai Palisade is one of the best in the mid-size SUV segment. Learn More
Hyundai Palisade Model Years
- View 2024 Palisade DetailsStarting at $38,045 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 Palisade DetailsStarting at $37,235 · 9.5/10
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$35,345
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: More space and a funky new look make the redesigned 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe look radically different from before, but it retains its comfort-oriented road manners. Learn More
Hyundai Santa Fe Model Years
- View 2024 Santa Fe DetailsStarting at $35,345 · 9/10
- View 2023 Santa Fe DetailsStarting at $30,085 · 8.5/10
2025 Mazda CX-70
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,900
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: While its name suggests a new mid-size SUV that’s smaller than the three-row CX-90, the 2025 CX-70 is in fact just a CX-90 with the third row removed. Learn More
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,830
EPA MPG
21 combined
C/D SAYS: Whether it's stripped down or dressed to the nines, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a handsome family support vehicle that's built to go to basically anywhere. Learn More
Jeep Grand Cherokee L Model Years
- View 2024 Grand Cherokee L DetailsStarting at $41,830 · 9/10
- View 2023 Grand Cherokee L DetailsStarting at $43,830 · 9/10
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$39,830
EPA MPG
22 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Grand Cherokee is a multifaceted SUV situated at the intersection of machismo and elegance, with some trims remaining simple and others going upscale. Learn More
Jeep Grand Cherokee Model Years
- View 2024 Grand Cherokee DetailsStarting at $39,830 · 9/10
- View 2023 Grand Cherokee DetailsStarting at $41,830 · 9/10
2025 Toyota Crown Signia
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,985
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: As a new mid-size SUV with a hybrid powertrain, the 2025 Crown Signia offers two rows of seats, an upscale interior, and standard all-wheel drive. Learn More
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
More From Toyota
2024 Toyota bZ4X
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,420
EPA Est. Range
222–252 miles
C/D SAYS: Although competent and pleasant to drive, the 2024 Toyota bZ4X's range and charging limit its appeal compared to other EVs. Learn More
Toyota bZ4X Model Years
- View 2024 bZ4X DetailsStarting at $44,420 · 7.5/10
- View 2023 bZ4X DetailsStarting at $43,350 · 7.5/10
2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid
Starting at
$58,000 est
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The venerated 4Runner returns for 2025 packing a hybrid powertrain and a new Trailhunter trim that is ready to bash the boonies straight off the showroom floor. Learn More
2025 Toyota bZ3X
Starting at
$40,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: As an all-electric subcompact SUV, the 2025 Toyota bZ3X plans to deliver peaceful driving with zero emissions in an incredibly competitive segment. Learn More
2026 Toyota bZ5X
Starting at
$50,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Toyota’s bZ5X will be a three-row electric SUV similar in size and shape to the gas-powered Highlander crossover. Learn More
2026 Toyota Compact Cruiser EV
Starting at
$35,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Toyota signals that it’s about to flex its off-road muscle in the electric SUV vehicle segment with the Compact Cruiser EV Concept. Learn More
2027 Toyota Corolla Pickup
Starting at
$25,000 est
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Rumor has it Toyota is planning to expand the Corolla brand to include a compact pickup truck by 2027 to challenge the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz. Learn More
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,465
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Toyota expands the Highlander SUV lineup—literally—with the introduction of the stretched 2024 Grand Highlander. Learn More
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$46,065
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: All the familiar family-friendly qualities of the Grand Highlander SUV with a choice of two hybrid powertrains, one thrifty, one powerful. Learn More
2026 Toyota Tacoma Electric
Starting at
$50,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Toyota’s midsize Tacoma truck is likely to welcome an electric powertrain option a year or so after the gas-powered pickup debuts. Learn More
2024 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$47,795
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Toyota's hybrid proliferation continues through its truck lineup with the 2024 Tacoma Hybrid, which sits atop the Tacoma lineup as the most powerful option. Learn More
2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$29,570
EPA MPG
42 combined
C/D SAYS: Like its Corolla namesake, the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is practical, affordable, and efficient, but comes up short on personality and performance. Learn More
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Model Years
- View 2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid DetailsStarting at $29,570 · 7.5/10
- View 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid DetailsStarting at $29,305 · 7.5/10
2024 Toyota GR Corolla
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$37,595
EPA MPG
24 combined
C/D SAYS: Toyota has turned its Gazoo Racing performance division loose to apply the tuner treatment to the Corolla hatchback—and the result is a 300-hp mini monster. Learn More
Toyota GR Corolla Model Years
- View 2024 GR Corolla DetailsStarting at $37,595 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 GR Corolla DetailsStarting at $36,995 · 10/10