The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's #3 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. Currently the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a score of 8.1 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 8 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Punchy yet efficient hybrid powertrain Comfortable ride Upscale interior Many standard tech and safety features
Cons Cramped third row Relatively high starting price
The Highlander is all new for 2020 and is vastly improved compared with the 2019 model it replaces. Next year, a sportier-looking XSE model will join the lineup.
Pros Handsomely styled, fuel-sipping hybrid option, well equipped even at the base level.
Cons Boring driving dynamics, snug third-row passenger space, busy dashboard design
The Highlander is fully redesigned for 2020.Hybrid now uses a four-cylinder instead of a V6.A little less power than before, but much better fuel economy.Part of the fourth Highlander generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Strong fuel economy estimates of 35-36 mpg combined Available all-wheel drive for all models Sensibly priced compared to the non-hybrid Highlander Plenty of standard and available safety features
Cons Third-row seats are small, even for kids Engine noise is noticeably unrefined Interior design already looks dated
A blind-spot monitor and auto-dimming exterior mirrors are now standard.Part of the first NX generation, originally introduced for 2015 as the NX 200t.
PROS Cabin is very quiet at highway speeds Supremely comfortable ride and seats Lots of standard high-tech safety features
CONS Remote Touchpad interface is frustrating to use Limited cargo volume Not much fun to drive
The 2021 Lexus NX's #7 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Compact SUVs category. Currently the Lexus NX has a score of 7.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 31 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.The 2021 Lexus NX 300 ranks in the lower half of the luxury compact SUV class.
Pros Roomy seating Smooth, quiet ride Many standard safety features Great predicted reliability rating
Cons Frustrating infotainment controls Relatively small cargo area
Even though the subcompact NX is on the far side of the age curve, Lexus hasn't made any major changes to it for 2021. Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is now standard, as are power-folding exterior mirrors with an auto-dimming function. Inside, Lexus has tweaked the NX's steering wheel and tachometer designs. Opting for the upgraded Mark Levinson stereo system now includes a Mark Levinson-branded amplifier. And a new color joins the options sheet: Nori Green Pearl.
Pros Chiseled styling, proper SUV seating height, spacious interior.
Cons Fussy infotainment controller, middle-of-the-pack acceleration, starting to show its age.
