First Look at 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited Interior – It May Surprise You

Buzz has been building for months about what the 2020 Highlander, both gasoline and hybrid models, will look like. I recently had the opportunity to investigate a new Highlander Hybrid Limited – and it did not disappoint.

What stood out about 2020 Highlander Hybrid

When I research a vehicle to buy, I want to know the important main categories. Does it give me comfort and convenience? Does it have all the latest safety features? How does it look overall? I am sure we all have different criteria, but with 2020 Highlander Hybrid, you may be impressed with just about everything (similar to reaction for redesigned RAV4).

Most of us have already seen a picture or two or many of the exterior. It really does look sleek and modern. However, it is challenging to get a clear understanding of what is going on inside. And this is important to find out these details. After all, most of us spend far more time looking at the interior of our vehicles than the outside. Well, at least while driving. At least I hope.

Interior styling was clearly a focus for Toyota when engineering the 2020 Highlander. I found the overall look to have modernized, as you would expect. I also like the soft and open look.

Toyota has really upped their game with an available massive 12.3-inch multimedia infotainment screen. Since it was not specifically listed, the one thing I do not know about this system is whether this huge screen is standard or if it comes as part of an upgraded option package on the Limited. I am sure it will come standard on the Hybrid Platinum. Time will tell as early 2020 gets closer.

Passengers will be able to easily and conveniently operate their Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, Android Auto and Dynamic Navigation functions and commands. Also, digital climate and heated/cooled seats controls are featured on the touch screen as well. Those Highlander models that do not feature this 12.3-inch screen will have 8-inch touch screens.

The smart storage shelf has evolved from one long shelf into two separated halves. These should make for handy resting spots for your wallets, keys, phones, etc. This one might seem like a moot point (see Rick Springfield, you aren’t the only one who gets to use the word moot), but the center console is much easier to open than the previous 2019 Highlander generation. For those of us who have initially tried and failed to open this console, you will know what I mean by this statement.

Other interior 2020 Highlander Hybrid Highlights

Driving modes have become a staple in newer Toyota models, and they are useful to drivers in different situations and scenarios. The 2020 Highlander Hybrid Limited offers NORMAL, SPORT, ECO and EV modes, along with an electric parking brake and brake hold buttons.

The Hybrid Limited I reviewed came with second row captain’s chairs. Most models should give people the choice of this seating option or a bench seat for up to 8 passengers possibility.

Passengers in the third row will have a little extra leg room, as the new Highlander is 2.36 inches longer than the previous generation. This added room has been given to the cargo and third row areas. Also, you will be able to slide the second row an extra 1.2 inches further forward to give added room to the back row.

I’ll take “2020 Highlander Extras” for $400 please Alex

The 2020 Highlander Hybrid will be offered in LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum trim levels. The gasoline version will follow the same grade philosophy, but it will also feature a new L model.

Hybrid trims are powered with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine working in combination with two electric motors to deliver 240 net hybrid horsepower. The benefit here comes with savings at the gas pump. The 2020 Highlander Hybrid will get a combined 34mpg, which is a 17 percent improvement versus current fuel efficiency.

For those who choose the gasoline-only 2020 Highlander, you will have one sole powertrain option – a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb.-ft. torque. It will be matched with a direct-shift 8-speed automatic transmission.

All 2020 Toyota Highlander grades come with standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. Pricing is not yet available. You should begin seeing gasoline-powered 2020 Highlanders at dealerships in mid-to-late December, while Hybrids will be shipped around the February to March time frame.

Time for your thoughts on 2020 Highlander

How do you like the new 2020 Highlander interior and exterior styling and features? What stands out to you? If in the market, do you feel you’d be more interested in the gasoline or Hybrid models?

WATCH: My full review of the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited prototype. Please subscribe to Torque News YouTube channel for the latest automotive analysis and news.

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I blow the lid off and show you the 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road and what makes it so special.

YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Compare ALL 2019 Highlander trim levels in my full 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.