2020 Toyota Highlander Features Explained for All Trim Levels

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Submitted by Jeff Teague on December 7, 2019 - 5:01PM

Learn more about each 2020 Toyota Highlander trim level and what features are offered.

Two days ago, I wrote a story highlighting key standard features that will be on every new 4th generation 2020 Highlander. Today I would like to compare all grades, or trims, for the Highlander so you can pick the best one for you and your family.

2020 Highlander L hardly a base level

First off, all trim levels for 2020 Highlander come with standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus, unless it is a Hybrid, the Highlander comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower. Those are the main questions I get from viewers of my YouTube channel and readers of my Torque News column, so it is important to address them first.

Although this is the entry grade for this all-new Highlander, the L model is far from basic. Expect standard LED headlights and taillights, 18-inch alloy wheels and Smart Key for both front doors and the back hatch at this level.

Standard 3-zone auto climate control, 8-way power driver’s seat, 8-inch multimedia touch screen, 4.2-inch multimedia display, and auto up/down function for all windows make the L grade an attractive option.

Blind spot monitor and the 2020 Highlander LE

Carrying over the same features from L trim level, the LE has a few key upgrades. For those people who need and expect blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, this may be your choice. Plan also for standard power back liftgate, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, and LED fog lamps.

XLE will be a popular Highlander option

This is where Highlander undergoes big changes, upgrades and additions. Just like in previous generations, the XLE will be an extremely popular way to go.

Standard features for 2020 Highlander XLE are SofTex-trimmed heated front seats with 10-way power driver’s seat and 4-way power passenger seat, power moonroof, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with homelink and standard second row Captain’s chairs with 2nd row sunshades. Also, 7-inch multi-information display, machine-faced alloy wheels, roof rails and auto LED headlights with auto high beam.

Limited Equals Luxury in 2020 Highlander

The Limited is the level that will include a lot of what I call “extra” luxury features people hope will be on their next car but might not be.

Standard exterior highlights for Limited are 20-inch alloy wheels, hands-free (foot-operated) power tailgate, metal door scuff plates, and “Highlander” puddle lamp.

WATCH: as we show interior features of 2020 Highlander Hybrid Limited. Please subscribe to Torque News YouTube channel.

Interior features are ambient interior lighting, memory seats, perforated leather seats with heated and cooled front seats, wood interior trim, JBL audio system, dynamic navigation, 2nd row 120V power outlet and cargo cover.

Platinum is the Ultimate Toyota Highlander

For those customers who want the most features available on a 2020 Toyota Highlander, the Platinum trim level should be your selection.

Standard exterior features are 20-inch Platinum style wheels, adaptive self-leveling headlights, panoramic moonroof and rain-sensing wipers.

The interior of Platinum receives a strong upgrade with standard Birds eye view camera, head-up display, a massive 12.3-inch multimedia touch screen, digital display rear view mirror (like in the RAV4) and heated 2nd row seats. Platinum also gives customers another interior seat color option, Glazed Caramel, to go with other standards Beige, Gray or Black.

What is your choice for 2020 Highlander?

What do you think of the trim levels for this redesigned 2020 Highlander? Based on these features, what level do you think is the right one for you and your family?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I explain why you may want to choose a 2019 Highlander over a new 2020.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Seeing my video review as I show key highlights of 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road.

Bookmark Jeff Teague's Toyota News and Reviews at Torque News Toyota. Please subscribe to Jeff’s “Toyotajeff” YouTube channel for Toyota news, reviews and how-to videos. Follow Jeff on Facebook and Instagram. Find him on Twitter @toyotajeff1 and tweet him tips for new stories.

Submitted by john scofield (not verified) on December 8, 2019 - 12:11PM

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good morning, Jeff a couple questions 1) curious why Toyota doesn't offer 6 or 8 way seats on the passenger side front of a lot of the vehicles in any trim ? I liked the rav and the 4 runner but hit my head getting in and out of them on passenger side, becasue the seat is often higher then the lowest settings on drivers side ? 2) with that said does the 2020 highlander have 6 or 8 way option for passenger side or is it exclusive to the Lexus like the GX 460 which will probably be my next car becasue of seating issues ? seems like a missed opportunity for Toyota as Ive had friends pass on certain models for same reason . regards john

Submitted by Kevin (not verified) on December 9, 2019 - 10:05PM

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Like many buyers, we need the second row bench seat but want several of the nicer technology upgrades, How can we do this? We looked at the Kia Telluride but their better-equipped models offered only captain chairs in second row.