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8” or 12.3” Multimedia Screen: What 2020 Toyota Highlander System is Best?

Is an 8” or 12.3” multimedia system best for the 2020 Highlander? We break it down for you, with video.

If you are a fan of technology and the latest connectivity applications, you may want to take a closer look at the 2020 Toyota Highlander. This redesigned model brings new high-tech gadgets and apps into your new Highlander, even at its base trim levels.

One aspect getting plenty of attention from prospective buyers is the improved multimedia system in 2020 Highlander. Today I explore your different options for screen size.

2020 Toyota Highlander Limited Blueprint color profile view

Choose from large or super-sized touch screen. I just wanted to find a way to say super-sized in a story. Mission complete.

Screen size options for 2020 Highlander

First off, it is important to note that screen size for every trim level of the 2020 Highlander is at least 8 inches in size. This is a huge improvement from the previous generation. Highlander Platinum grade offers, as standard equipment, the largest screen in Toyota Highlander history at 12.3 inches.

2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 8 inch multimedia touch screen

Whether you choose the 8” or the 12.3” system, plenty of standard features make time spent in your 2020 Highlander more convenient, less distracting, and consequently safer for both drivers and passengers. Popular applications Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa are easy to use and are standard across all Highlander levels.

One benefit for the larger 12.3” system is it highlights several different touch-screen functions in wide screen format so you can see and operate multiple things at once. Climate, audio, heated/cooled seats and navigation functions are very easy to use by touch.

2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 12.3 inch multimedia touch screen

With both systems, visual pictures were easy to understand and corresponding functions simple to operate.

How to get the 12.3-inch multimedia screen

There are two ways to get this upgraded and larger multimedia touch screen in your Highlander. First, it is standard on the 2020 Highlander Platinum and Hybrid Platinum trim levels.

2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 12.3 inch screen backup camera

It can be purchased as an option package on the 2020 Highlander Limited and Hybrid Limited trims as well. This package includes the bump-up in screen size and the additional capabilities that come with it, as well as bird’s eye view camera system. This option package has a retail price of $1,050 extra.

VIDEO: Compare the 2 systems in my video review. What one do you like best?

Time for your thoughts on 2020 Highlander

What do you think of 2020 Toyota Highlander so far? Do you own one with the smaller or larger screen size and how do you like it?

What applications do you use most in your Highlander?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I speculate on the 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid and when it will arrive.

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Comments

Patrick (not verified)    June 8, 2020 - 5:22PM

I have the 2020 Highlander Platinum with the larger display. There is no way to get rid of the side panel you show in the video, so essentially the usable surface of the larger display is just 8". Really disappointing. I would like to have the full 12.3" for Android Auto.

Hopefully, Toyota will let us reclaim that wasted space.