2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Features for All Trim Levels

We continue to learn more details each and every day as the arrival of the 2020 Toyota Highlander draws closer. Buzz has been building around the country for the past few months.

This fourth-generation 2020 Highlander shows up with all-new sophisticated exterior and interior styling, along with plenty of valuable technology and safety updates. This should appeal to current Toyota Highlander owners who are already used to a smooth, quiet and comfortable driving experience and are ready for the next body style. It should also appeal to potential SUV customers who have not tried the Highlander yet.

Also new is the 2020 Highlander Hybrid lineup, which will bring with it excellent gas mileage (up to 36mpg combined). Buyers can also expect each trim level to come with the choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. This will draw the interest of people who live in both warmer and colder climates. Finally, pricing will be extremely attractive for the hybrid version, as each grade is a reasonable $1,400 increase from its gasoline-powered equivalent.

What about these trim levels, though? Let’s look into what features should be offered with each one. This will help you research the 2020 Highlander Hybrid so you can pick the best one for you and your family.

Highlander Hybrid LE hardly a base level

Toyota is offering its 2020 Highlander Hybrid in 4 different grades, or trim levels. You are able to choose from LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum. Gasoline version Highlander will also include an L model that will have slightly less equipment than LE.

RELATED STORY: See features for all 2020 Highlander gasoline-powered trim levels

I should offer a slight disclaimer here. Features for all gasoline grades have been released, which I wrote about in a recent Torque News story. Although not specifically listed as hybrid features, it can be surmised these Highlander Hybrid features will mirror their gasoline-powered equivalents.

LE shoppers can expect standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, smart key push button start, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and taillights and fog lamps, blind spot monitor and a power back door. You should enjoy the larger 8-inch multimedia touch screen that will feature standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa compatibility.

Other 2020 Highlander Hybrid LE highlights should include 8-way power driver’s seat, 3-zone auto climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and Audio Plus that will feature SiriusXM with Service Connect and Remote Connect.

Big upgrades for 2020 Highlander Hybrid XLE

Last year when you upgraded from a 2019 Highlander LE-equivalent level to XLE, you could expect significant upgrades. The same applies to a step-up with the 2020 Hybrid XLE.

While the Hybrid LE comes with fabric seats, bumping up to the Hybrid XLE gives you SofTex seats with heated front seats and the combination of 10-way power driver’s seat and 4-way power passenger seat. Plan to see a standard power moonroof, a bigger 7-inch multi-information display behind the steering wheel and Qi wireless charging capabilities.

Other key upgrades for 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE are auto-dimming rearview mirror, 2nd row sun shades and a 2nd row 120V power outlet for playing devices.

Limited equals Highlander luxury

A move up to the Limited gives buyers the chance to get even more helpful and convenient options. On the Hybrid Limited you can expect to find larger 20-inch Limited wheels, heated and ventilated/cooled front seats and a hands-free foot-operated power liftgate.

Also, music and sound quality enthusiasts will want to check out this standard JBL audio system. This rocking system features 11 speakers, a subwoofer and a 1200-watt amplifier. The 2020 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid should set the new bar for premium in-vehicle sound quality.

Other nice standard Limited features should include premium projector beam headlights, interior ambient lighting and an exterior “Highlander” puddle lamp.

2020 Highlander Hybrid Platinum is the top

I believe House of Pain sang it best when they said “I’m the cream of the crop. I rise to the top.” Same goes with the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum. This is the highest grade offered in both gasoline and hybrid. It gives drivers and passengers a luxurious feel with plenty of excellent additions that help with convenience, safety and technology.

Exterior Platinum highlights are 20-inch Platinum wheels, a panoramic moonroof, rain-sensing wipers and adaptive, self-leveling headlights.

Helpful features you will find on the inside are a gigantic 12.3-inch multimedia touch screen, a 10-inch color head up display, heated 2nd row seats and a bird’s eye view monitor.

WATCH: my video review takes you on a tour of 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited Ruby Flare Pearl. Please subscribe to Torque News YouTube channel for daily automotive analysis.

One feature you may want to give a second look is the standard digital display rear view mirror. This was first introduced in the latest RAV4 generation. It gives drivers a larger, clear picture of what is behind them without normal rear seat headrests or back seat passengers’ heads getting in the way of your view.

Time for your thoughts on 2020 Toyota Highlander

Do you plan on shopping for either a 2020 Highlander or 2020 Highlander Hybrid? If Hybrid, what trim level do you think is the best one for you?

Have you seen the 2020 Highlander in person yet? If so, what do you think so far?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I give my reasons I think Toyota Tacoma just had its best sales year of all time.

YOU MAY ENJOY: I explain all trim levels and features for 2020 Highlander in my video review.

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.