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2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review


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A Fine Redesign for the 35mpg 7/8-seater

by Mark Fulmer
The Auto Channel

The Look. The lines are smooth and flowing with a sedan-like countenance that is pleasing to the eye as well as enhancing aerodynamics and wind noise. The 18 (and available 20) inch wheels give the impression that the Highlander is small-ish but that illusion fades upon settling yourself inside the refined and well thought-out interior with seats that make short or long trips quite cozy.


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The Engine. The 2.5-liter inline-4 is coupled with the hybrid system’s electric motors, makes a system output of 240 horsepower. The drive modes include Normal, Eco, and Sport and include a sequential downshift feature which both helps the car slow when going downhill and also helps recharge the batteries for the electric motor. The all-wheel-drive versions get an additional rear-mounted motor for improved cruising speed effeciency. Car shoppers will find that now is a good time to help your family budget and save considerable bucks on fuel. The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has decreased its weight and increased its fuel efficiency up to at least 35mpg and higher if you avoid heavy-footed jackrabbit starts.


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The Tech. 2020 Highlander Hybrid comes standard with a road sign detection, lane departure warning, rear view camera, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, cyclist and pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, rear cross traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. The wide screen touchscreen display (looking a lot like the Space X Dragon capsule) with multi window displays is feature-filled and customizable.


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The Cargo Space. With the second and third row seats folded down, you get 84.3 cubic feet for equipment, gear, furniture, and if your family is like mine, one shopping trip's worth from Costco or Sam's Club.


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With just the third row folded down, you'll have 48.4 cubic feet of space, enough to take a family of four camping, even if you have a little sister who thought it would be cool to bring all, yes all, of her stuffed animal collection.

With all seats up the Highlander Hybrid has 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind its third-row. Towing capacity is up to 3,500 pounds.


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The driving experience is very stable and predictable. The electric motor kicks in for instantaneous acceleration and the braking can be feathered to your hearts content, and your passengers comfort.

With a starting price of $38,200 it is well worth your time to test drive this good-looking SUV with its refined interior, legendary reliability, and fuel friendly hybrid powerplant.