The 2020 Highlander Goes Green With a Hybrid Version

Fuel efficiency has become a big sector in the automotive industry. Buyers are looking to save a bit of money for better things and overall concerns for the environment and fluctuating availability of oil are also driving factors. This makes hybrid and electric vehicles much more attractive options than less efficient cars, trucks, and SUVs. The electric vehicle charging infrastructure is growing but falls short in many rural areas, making hybrids a great choice. The Toyota Highlander is answering the call with the inclusion of a hybrid version in the 2020 release. Here’s a quick look under the hood.

Here’s What Makes The 2020 Highlander Hybrid So Exciting

The comfort and convenience of an SUV or compact SUV are hard to argue. However, the fuel economy has been a thorn in the side of many owners who have had to put up with sub-optimal numbers for years. The new hybrid Highlander, however, will apparently boast numbers close to or above 34 MPG, a massive step forward in SUV efficiency. Toyota had some help in this department outside of pure engineering. A smaller engine is included in the new Highlander, but it shouldn’t lose too much oomph.

With regard to the powertrain, previous year’s releases included a hybrid option for an all-wheel-drive option. To create more pricing flexibility, the 2020 Highlander Hybrid has configurations for both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The move to a four-cylinder engine from a six-cylinder may make you think that there will be less capability, however, an added battery beneath the seats helps ensure it has the same performance specs as its 2019 counterpart.

Entertainment Additions On the 2020 Highlander

Toyota is adding entertainment features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the new Highlander. Lately, these media connectivity features have worked their way into being standard inclusions, so making sure they found their way onto the Highlander was a great choice by the designers. You can access these great features and more on an intuitive 8-inch touch screen display. This Platinum trim has an upgraded 12.5-inch display, making it one of the largest available.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.0

Toyota has been committed to adding excellent driver assistance features as standard inclusions for a couple of years now. The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid will include Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, or TSS 2.0. This premium set of driver assistance safety features adds an entire umbrella of great technology which makes the roads a much safer place to drive.

TSS 2.0 includes a pre-collision warning system with added pedestrian detection. Dynamic cruise control automatically adjusts the cruising speed if you are gaining on the car in front of you too quickly, and maintains a safe distance. Lane departure assistance with added lane tracing features help you keep the Highlander in the correct lane. Automatic high-beams are a nice, convenient touch for nighttime driving.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is creating a lot of buzz and for good reason. The added efficiency and extra safety and tech features make the full-size SUV a very attractive option to car buyers.

Image via DealerOn

Posted in New Toyota Cars | No Comments »