Life With a New 2020 Toyota Highlander | The GOOD & BAD! 

*The mirrors DO reverse tilt, whoops!* What do you like or not like about the new Highlander? Subscribe and click the bell so you don't miss the full review and night review 👍 *Thanks for watching and have a great day!*

I own a Highlander Platinum. Absolutely loves it. I have not experienced any jerkiness. It feels and looks like it was built for life. It is well crafted. I love the safety features, and love how Toyota's focus is on making dependable, reliable, and quality vehicles.

I’ve been considering a mid-size 3 row suv and I’ve looked at lots of reviews. Your description of the good and bad of the Highlander Platinum is one of the most balanced and informative reviews I’ve seen. There is a lot of cool tech in the Platinum, notably the rear view mirror camera, but most of the shortcomings you point out are inexcusable in a car costing more than $50k. The competition in this segment is significant, including the Telluride, Palisade, MDX, Ascent and CX-9, and the Highlander does not present a compelling case at the price point they’ve set.

Very good review. My wife drives a 2019 Highlander Limited. She wants to upgrade to the AWD Limited. After looking, and driving the 2020's, we both are a little bummed out. Sure there's lots of new Tech, but they took away the pop-open back glass, and destroyed the frontend appeal which now resembles a Subaru Outback. If we could locate a New 2019 AWD Limited, we would buy it instead, but they are super hard to find. I imagine she will go ahead with the 2020, but like the 2019 body style much better.

I want the bench seat in the Platinum trim. Seat adjustment is key! The back window should flip up. Transmission issues are known and should be fixed by now! Folding mirrors are on all the other SUVs in this class and really should be included. I like the rear mirror being connected to the camera. I think it should be on all trim levels and all models.

You are the only reviewer that I have seen that mentioned the height adjustment on the passenger seat. The lack of it has almost been a dealbreaker for me pushing me towards the Palisade Telluride duo. I think you have Very valid points on the good and the bad and I’m impressed enough with your critique I am hitting subscribe

I’ve got a platinum as well, wish it had retractable side mirrors. Other than that I love it

Wow when they charge you for platinum but really give you silver..

Thank you for your honest reviews, especially the dislike list. The majority of the videos out there only mention the positive features.

Years ago, we were buying a car for my wife. Either a Camry or an Avalon. We drove both, but took the Avalon because the driver's seat had the extendable cushion. It was so comfy. Now I see they took that feature away with the new version, and also the Highlander. Why? Who made that decision? It's stupid, imo, especially since Hyundai put it in the new Palisade.

I test drove a 2022 highlander limited and I couldn't believe the noise inside, upon returning to the dealer I told them that my 2016 Hyundai Tucson with 130,000 miles didn't make that kind of noise. Hopefully they will fix this issue for the 2023 model as I want to buy one.

“Boujee people” I have to say Nolan I absolutely love this video. I freaking can’t believe you said that and I died laughing so hard.

Just got the 2021 platinum in Blizzard Pearl 2 days ago... Absolutely love it.

Excessive wind noise and hood shake at higher speeds. The hood design looks great but too much wind gets under it. Can turn handling into a nightmare on a windy day.

Our 2018 Sienna had same issue with 8sp trans. Try putting it in Sport mode... trans will hold gears better and not consistently try to keep RPMs down by shifting. Sport mode also disables auto stop/start which annoys me and many people.

Minivan mid-row seats on an SUV? Minivans have a deep cargo compartment, where SUVs can't carry back seat passengers plus cargo. So if you want to take 5 people plus cargo on a road trip, these top-end models are unsuitable. We faced that when buying a Sequoia - Platinum was a non-starter.

People call it a family Mom car, but I really love the new design and the 2020 update. Do you think men looking good in the new Highlander?

I have 2020 le AWD highlander and I absolutely love it especially, all the safety stuff now that comes with it.

I really like the 2020 Toyota Highlander!

The L trim, has no fuel reserve warning light? I reached the empty line and nothing turned on to warn me. The rear glass visibility is poor. Very good and independent (kinda) review, by the way! People will star to hear about you

Toyota waited till this new model to install Android Auto & Apple CarPlay while competitors had it for eons. And I totally agree, those captain chairs in the second row drive me crazy, I'd like the bench seat too!

Hey, my friend. I'm guessing you don't have a couple of kids approaching 4.5' tall or more or the need to ever transport six, seven, or eight passengers. If you did I guarantee you'd have another "dislike." That would be Toyota's claim that the Highlander seats seven or even more ludicrously "up to eight" passengers. It's a cruel joke. According to Toyota the Highlander has 27.7" of legroom in the third row. That's less than any other mainstream midsize three row SUV on the market. It's even less than the cramped 3rd row of the Mazda CX-9 (29.7"). The KIA Sorento is the most compact of midsize 3 row crossovers at 189" in length, half a foot shorter than the Highlander, and it provides 31.7" of 3rd row seating. In fact, the only 3 row midsize SUV at any price that offers less room in the rear seat is the Highlander's cousin, the Lexus RX-L with a ridiculous 23.7" of legroom. Even a Mustang provides 30" of legroom in its back seat. Ever try to sit in the rear seat of a Mustang for more than five minutes? Toyota's claim that the Highlander seats seven or eight passengers (depending on a captain chairs vs a bench in the 2nd row) is based on the fact that the vehicle has three seat belts in the 3rd row. That adds insult to injury. The number of seat belts is not the measure of the number of human beings who can be accommodated in a seat. Toyota might as well have put another seat belt in the first row in order to claim a passenger could sit on the center console and improve the passenger capacity to nine! In this video it's noteworthy that you have the 3rd row folded into the floor. I may be wrong but I suspect you never tried to put even a single person, much less three human beings of any size, in the rear seat. Why is this important? Presumably consumers who opt for a midsize three row SUV over the numerous 2 row alternatives do so because they want seating for more than four or five passengers on at least an occasional basis. The Highlander doesn't even pass that low bar. Currently consumers who want a Toyota product have no choice even if they don't need or want third row seating since Toyota doesn't have a midsize two row alternative. So the Highlander remains alone as a mainstream midsize SUV that accommodates 4 passengers in its highest trim with an MSRP of more than $50,000. Apparently Toyota recognizes the problem. That explains their recent re-introduction of the new Venza, a 2 row vehicle that will likely steal a significant chunk of sales from the Highlander, especially since the Venza is offered only in the popular hybrid version. But for consumers who actually need/want room for six, seven, or eight passengers there are much better choices than the Highlander.

I agree with your likes and dislikes. It does seem that the Highlander is a bit pricey when you consider everything. The loaded Highlander is smaller and more expensive than a loaded Telluride or Palisade. It does made you think.

Side mirrors do reverse tilt, u need to have mirror switch on the left or right mirror to be active

Do you think this 2020 is reliable for long use for the next 10 years? I heard if you take care of these highlanders well they could last up to 400k miles

Good points and agree. Hope people complain to fix these issues for us consumers

great job! I have a 2004 too as well as a 2016. 210K on the '04 and still strong... I personally hate LED light assemblies. Oh they last so long everyone thinks but then you go to replace and the entire thing has to be replaced for hundreds of dollars i am sure. Another dislike you had which i don't mind either is the folding motorized mirrors. I think they are stupid and just another waste of money (vanity). I have driven for decades and have not once had my mirror broken off of any car. Why would i want a motorized mirror (2) that is just another thing that will ultimately break and bring no value (based on my personal experience at least) but cost a ton to repair or replace? Definitely don't like the engine auto off function. My 16 HL was the last year that did not have this and that would be the very first thin i would disable if I bought a new one. Sad to hear about the transmission. My 16 I believe is a six speed and i would be frustrated too if the 8 speed jerked. Great overview. Enjoyed it. Love my 2 Highlanders I do all the work on them!

Good review. The seat options is why I did not choose the Platinum which is why I chose the Limited. To give up an adult seat by selecting captains chairs in the second row was a waste for me. And the huge gap between the chairs when folded down, would allow cargo to fall in it. I also wanted the HUD. Why did you not mention it? You didn’t mention the puddle lights from the mirrors that spell the Highlander on the ground. I love how the vehicle tells me the actually tire pressure. If you ever have a low tire, you now know exactly which one it is. You didn’t mention the absolutely awesome sound system with a real, honest to goodness subwoofer that kicks A! Yes I agree the transmission shifts are bizarre at times. My biggest grip is the 1st to 2nd shift. The rear window glass not opening was very disappointing. The lack of a factory trailer hitch on the limited and platinum was ridiculous too. If you want to haul bikes, you’ll have to go after market. I think the reduction in window size from previous versions negatively changes the drivers view. BUT all in all I love the new vehicle and would not buy anything else.

The rear trunk flip glass is cool, but eliminating it has made the trunk door lighter and opens faster. Reduces wear and tear on the trunk struts.

Subscribed Great information specially the dislikes

Mirrors do reverse tilt, just leave it on L or R. Middle position disables this.

Solid review - appreciate the candor and detail. One question - what is your opinion of the third row seats in terms of space and comfort? Can a reasonably sized adult fit comfortably in the 3rd row? Thank you in advance..

I couldn't agree with you more at this price point... How can you not have power folding mirrors or better seat adjustments on the Platinum trim? Lastly, you put one of the biggest infotainment screens in the industry in the Highlander, but you don't allow full screen usage for the best Apps like Google Earth and Apple car play - to take full advantage of the size of the screen. Does climate control really have to take up a 3rd of the screen all the time??? Ugggh, Toyota was close to getting this on par with the Telluride and Palisade, but they missed the mark. Hopefully, we see some subtle changes in 2021 model year. The selling point to me is the hybrid mpg - if I were in the market for a V6 it would be Telluride or Palisade. Honestly, the new Kia Sorento hits all the marks and I may go that route.

I may be in the minority here, I like the auto stop/start and keep my 2020 LE in eco mode to try and maximize mpg. It doesn’t have as many of the posh features that my Subaru forester did, but I love the size and that you sit higher off the ground than in smaller vehicles.

Toyota should allow all lower end Highlanders to have the option of a digital rearview mirror. It's a safety issue.

The only issue I've had with a 2022 transmission is trying to pass. I don't have the issue you describe, but passing it doesn't know what gear to be in, revs up high, but goes no where. Otherwise, the 8 speed takes on hills like thru AZ and CA great barely breaking 2k rpms and cruises even at 80 around 1.75k rpms. The chair could use a little more cushioning - it seems lexus/toyota chairs keep getting firmer every generation, which makes me sad because they used to be some of the best seats.

2020 Highlander is smaller than 2020 pilot. Even though the new model looking very nice. I like spacious SUV.

I bought a new sienna in 2016 le with all four auto power windows I don’t why ( which takes more force your finger or your whole arm and back) and manual back door to kill your back. What Toyota is thinking lately I really don’t know either. 🥴 BTW your presentation skill are much better the TFL, and RL reviews.

The mirrors do revers tilting, just keep the switch set to left right.

Also, I wish when you put it in cruise control it would steer also. Since it has lane control I would think this added feature would not be that difficult..

very concise presentation, good job!

Do you have an updated on your likes and dislikes now that we are in 2022?

I agree with all of your points.

There is no toyota with passenger seat electric with height or lumbar support. None. I don’t know why Toyota is lacking on that. Even recently they didn’t have electric passenger seat. I think it is like the reviewer said deliberate to not destroy lexus brand cars. If you have everything that lexus have for less, there is no reason of lexus existence.

The seats are What Make It or break It for any vehicle. And this is a deal breaker.

Not folding mirrors and no remote start and hood open holder are my dislikes. It DOES have reverse mirror settings on both rear view outside mirrors.

Good information. I was wondering how much did you pay for it. I’m considering one myself. Thanks

I’ll give you a good one, the top platinum and limited trims are not able to have a trailer hitch. Because of the kick to open tailgate,at this time your out of luck if you think you can get Toyota to put a trailer hitch for bikes,sea doos or whatever!! Any body else besides me find this out after springing for the platinum version?

Great review how is the power under the pedal on this vehicle

Agree on dislike #1. Platinum with bench seems like a no brainer to have

The vehicle is amazing & beauty👍especially the color like yours one but with your complaint i agree 💯

Great SUV,,,but for Hybrid,,,the Hybrid battery has only 120-130K warranty depend on the State's policy so Toyota's Hybrid warranty would cover,,,,in IMO, hybrid warranty is a bummer, if not Prius or straight electronic vehicle!

This would be a perfect SUV if it had a manual transmission and a turbo-diesel engine like in European vehicles! Automatic transmissions are often jerky

Only thing I don’t like is high floor in 3rd row, where your knees are up by your chest.

I like your honest opinions( ( not a fan opinions ) br seats feautres are not impressive and dash info panel not impressive ,looks like old day transistor radio, Can you do the Highbrid Highlander version I am thinking to buy !

Toyota is like Apple/iPhone. They don't give you a lot for the high price, but they do depreciate very slowly.

Is there a chance to add extra seat or replace the caption seat to bench?

I know this a case of personal taste. I’m probability a minority on this but I like the looks of the 2019’s more. Don’t care for the pronounced body molding that comes over the rear wheel well

bad mistake getting a 2020 subrau forester sporti wonder how much can i get on trade

Driver side armrest is way too low it is uncomfortable there's nothing to place your left arm on

I love my Toyota truck! But, Toyota seemed intent here to create an ugly vehicle with this new Highlander! Will make my decision much easier when I have to replace our Honda Pilot!

The back truck window nooooo Toyota 😫😫😫😫😫

Hello 👋 bro! Where is your night review of Highlander 2020 ????

Nice review

New design of 2020 front look similar to my 2016

Great review! I agree that the Platinum Highlander is lacking a few things but that is because they've got to differentiate for the Lexus RX350. If people really want those things then they can step it up and get a Lexus. If Toyota and Lexus didn't differentiate, Lexus wouldn't sell as many cars because people could get the same features in a Toyota for cheaper.

I just really don’t like the auto stop/start feature.

Hi I heard 2020 highlander has lot of wind noise sepcialy in hwy when you are over 70 miles is that right ?

Captains Chairs all day!

You have to understand that Lexus needs to justify the price difference on the RX, which is why the new Highlander doesn’t have most of the features you mentioned but a lot of those features are unnecessary which is why people buy the Highlander....

40k very soon! :D

I'm sure Toyota is working on a reflash for your PCM/TCM For the jerkiness in your 8 speed ECT transmission. You should be receiving a letter soon from Toyota.

4:26 did you run premium gasoline? It happened to me with my Subaru, try to run regular gasoline.

Good review.

Very uncomfortable driver’s seat. Specially for those who drive with the left leg bent as your heels hit the base of the seat rail. Door opening was clearly reduced in size, to where is hard to get in the car, and once you’re in, the driver’s side view is blocked by the door frame, seems like the door for one of those Smart cars... totally different car compare to older models...I’ve driven all Highlander models for at least 10 miles each, very disappointing on comfort

Save Big Money At Menards! Go Menards!

No park assist system!? That’s unacceptable!

100% agreed with dislike and likes.

4:30, i was told thats engine braking, my 2013 highlander limited does that too, i guess its normal, i thought my transmission was going out LOL, my brother has a 2010 highlander limited and my pops has a 2006 highlander base and non of those 2 does that which why i was very concerned about it, but i dunno the definite cause, could be the computer or wutever change toyota made

When to arrive in Saudi Arabia?

Somehow it looks like a mini van.

Bought 2021 highlander and came to know these 8 speed transmission got issues in past years. Anyone know about this and are this issues fixed or not. I am really worried about this.

No power folding mirrors? No height adjustment.. wtf

Its a great family SUV but I never liked that style idk why, seems too boring for me

Handsome guy.. luv your videos 😻😻😻

can we get bench seat in XLE trim?

It costs a LOT more than a MADE IN JAPAN(!) 4Runner. What's the point again? Unless it's a hybrid with 36 mpg that 4Runner can't even come close.

My 2018 highlander does the same with the jerkiness 🤨

Head rest is way too foward

I hate the infotainment system it looks like an iPad !!!!😩

I don’t understand the people who spent 55,000 for the car and complain what’s wrong you guys.

You are not Toyota engineer. Ok

Hate it. It sucks the joy from my soul. Owned many Toyota’s and this is awful.

52 thousand??? Hell no...if you have to spend 52k then why get Highlander 👎👎👎👎

Please remove the camera from your head to a fixed point in the car when filming yourself driving. every little tilt in your head seems like we are in a boat in the middle of an ocean. We feel sick from the left and right motion tilting. Thank you!

I've had my 2020 Highlander Limited AWD (same engine as the Platinum) for just over two months now, and I haven't experienced the jerkiness mentioned here.

50K for a Highlander platinum is way better than spending 58-60K for a fully loaded GMC Acadia Denali AWD. Except in SH AWD, I think the Highlander beats the MDX. More modern and a way better value and the hybrid Highlander will absolutely destroy the MDX hybrid in fuel economy

This helped so much! I own a 2005 Highlander and hearing you mention your 2004 made me feel much more confident in your input!

There! You just spoke my heart out. That lack of choice for bench seat or 2 captain chairs in the 2nd row in top trim really is one of the biggest cons of this new Highlander. What if the customer wants to get the absolute top trim but at the same time wants/needs a bench seat in 2nd row? Guess what? He doesn't have a choice. That's where Subaru Ascent (although at the bottom of the midsize 3 row SUVs) really shines. You can opt for the top most trim and have the choice to either get a bench swat or 2 captain chairs, and that too a no cost option? That's really great I must say. Even Telluride and Palisade won't give u that option, neither would Atlas or Traverse. I guess Ascent is pretty much the only one to give you a no cost option for a bench/captain chairs seats in 2nd row.

Bench chairs is better in my opinion, 8 seater is always nice