New Highlander is better in every way
A brand new, larger and more fuel-efficient version of Toyota’s ever-popular Highlander has arrived. It’s the fourth generation of Highlander and, like the recently revised RAV4, this year’s remake is substantial.
In addition to incorporating Toyota’s latest New Global Architecture (TNGA-K), the 2020 Highlander is powered by a healthy V6 — 295 horsepower isn’t exactly chicken feed — mated to a state-of-the-art eight-speed automatic. Combine it with the towing package’s heavy duty radiator and computer-controlled trailer sway control, and the V6-powered Highlander can haul a real truck-like 2,273 kilograms.
As for the Hybrid, it combines a higher efficiency 2.5-litre four with two electric motors. This latest Toyota Hybrid System offers a whopping 17 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency compared with the previous Highlander Hybrid. I goes from an already commendable 8.3 L/100 km to 6.9, which is truly impressive for a large SUV. There’s even a “hypermiler” function called Auto Glide that Toyota says limits engine braking when the driver lifts from the accelerator pedal, acting like a neutral gear to allow the vehicle to coast further.
This focus on frugality does sacrifice performance, as the revised hybrid powertrain drops the V6-powered system that yielded 306 hp in favour of a much more efficient four-cylinder that puts out a more modest 240 net system hp.
This Toyota, with a more powerful gasoline engine or more efficient hybrid system, offers more sophisticated AWD systems and a truly “connected” interior. It may not be the sexiest sport ute on the planet, but it will provide safe, reliable and increasingly efficient transport. Driving.ca