With three rows of seating and plenty of cargo space, the 2020 Toyota Highlander is a practical choice for families. Toyota's mid-size SUV is all new for 2020 and offers many useful improvements and extra features not found in the outgoing 2019 model. For 2020, the Highlander gets an interior makeover to match its updated exterior styling. Base L and mid-range LE Highlander models can seat eight passengers using bench seats in both the second and third rows, but a seven-seat arrangement with second-row captain's chairs is available on higher trims. An 8.0-inch infotainment system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability is standard but the Highlander Limited and Platinum both get a larger 12.3-inch display; onboard Wi-Fi and an 11-speaker JBL audio system are both available as well.
The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid’s impressive fuel economy may win us over.
Pros Spacious interior High-mpg hybrid Upgraded infotainment
Cons Busy styling Rivals’ turbos may be faster Stiff competition
Fully redesigned for 2020.Increased cargo room behind the third row.Android Auto and Apple Car Play finally added.Part of the fourth Highlander generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Comfortable, quiet ride Good power and response from standard V6 engine Upscale interior materials Increased number of standard and optional safety features
Cons Third row is kids-only No seat height adjustment for front passenger Evolutionary cabin design Doesn't feel like a redesign from the ground up
The 2020 GMC Terrain seats five people and is available in four trim levels: the base SL, SLE, SLT, and Denali. Optional diesel engine is no longer available.Updated suspension for Denali models intended to improve ride quality.Changes to standard and optional safety equipment.At the top of the Terrain range is the Denali, which receives unique styling cues and interior trim as well as most of the optional features from the above trim levels. A new optional Denali Premium package tops it all off with features such as ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control and a surround-view parking camera system.
Pros Comfortable and upscale interior Optional 2.0-liter engine is efficient and powerful Touchscreen interfaces are intuitive and easy to use
Cons Price with options runs higher than average for the class Disappointing base engine Less cargo space behind the back seat than most competitors
The 2020 GMC Terrain is a stylish crossover SUV that we wish had more standard safety gear.
Pros Arresting style Rides well Denali feels almost luxurious Good infotainment system
Cons Annoying all-wheel-drive system Thirsty engines Active safety should be standard Price escalates fast
The 2020 GMC Terrain features an impressive set of standard safety features and a handsome cabin, but neither area is best in class. Add in moderate performance and a small cargo area, and the Terrain's spot in the bottom half of our compact SUV rankings is understandable.
Pros Lots of standard advanced safety features Considerable rear-seat legroom Upscale, comfortable cabin Good city mpg rating with base engine
Cons Small cargo area behind back seat Sleepy base engine Above-average price for the class
