Sometime in the second half of 2019, the Japanese manufacturer is going to reveal the all-new 2020 Toyota Highlander. The new Highlander is expected to get a full overhaul, but for now, there aren’t specific details about the changes. However, it will probably get a more attractive exterior with perhaps some new colors. Inside the cabin, the new Toyota should get upgraded features and safety systems.
2020 Toyota Highlander powertrain
Under the hood, the 2020 Toyota Highlander will t=return with a range of gasoline and hybrid engines. Precisely, there is going to be three types of engines to choose from. So, the base is the same 2.7-liter inline-4 engine which will be able to make 185 horses and 184 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and comes with front-wheel drive system. This engine gets 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
The next is a stronger 3.5-liter V-6 engine which can generate 295 horses and 263 lb-ft of torque. This one is working with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and comes with a choice between FWD and AWD configurations. Connected to front-wheel drive layout, this engine is rated at 21/27.23 mpg. The AWD model is estimated to be 20 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined.
Furthermore, there is also a hybrid model which combines a 3.5-liter V-6 with two electric motors which power the rear wheels. The total output of this engine is 306 horsepower. So, the hybrid comes with a standard all-wheel drive system. The LE model gets 30/28 mpg. However, the XLE, Limited, and Limited Platinum versions are rated at 29/27 mpg in the city/highway.
Design of exterior and interior
According to the latest news, the 2020 Toyota Highlander is expected to get a full redesign, but for now, there isn’t any specific information. Recently, the Highlander has been slightly refreshed getting a more aggressive appearance with more sharp angles and edges all over the body. The grille features a razor design while the rest of the vehicle looks muscular and well-proportioned.
Inside, the 2020 Toyota Highlander might also get a redesign with upgraded materials, infotainment system, and more technology. As before, it is a spacious SUV which three rows of seats. The front and the second row are roomy and comfortable, and even the third row is enough wide for smaller adults. Depending on a trim level, each model features a unique finish and specific details such as faux wood trim. As for the cargo, there is 14 cubic feet of room behind the third row.
The standard equipment of the base model includes tinted windows, a rearview camera, a 6.1-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, power driver’s seat, a 4.2-inch LCD screen, 18-inch alloys, USB, and a Bluetooth. The higher trims will add an 8.0-inch touchscreen, leather, heated and cooled seats, panoramic moonroof, a surround view camera, and so on.
Release date and price
We are hoping to see the new 2020 Toyota Highlander in the second half of 2019. The price is not yet known but the current model starts at $32,000.