I have a 2017 Highlander XLE so I’m pretty sure it’s the same as the 2019. I like the opening rear window glass which saves on using the power rear door if you just need to put a few things in the back. There’s probably a reason Toyota stopped using that feature in the 4th Generation ( 2020+) but I like it. I heard unofficially that many customers complained because if you close the rear glass and don’t close it properly the rear hatch won’t work. It’s pretty easy to do that was the glass looks like it’s fully closed even when it hasn’t “ latched “ properly. As a side note, the rear hatch also won’t open if you have accidentally pushed the small black button on the left side of the plastic frame that the glove box sirs in. I accidentally pushed that while changing the cabin air filter and the vehicle would “ beep “ when you pushed the button on the drivers side , the button on the key fob or the button on the hatch just above the license plate but the hatch wouldn’t open. I checked the rear glass to see if that was ajar but it wasn’t . I phone the “ local” dealership and was told it was the power struts and the struts themselves cost over $800 Canadian dollars. Found a RUclipsrs video after checking a half dozen or more and he gave 4 reasons why the hatch may not open. Reason #2 was that button beside the glove box ( with the glove box open ). One Achilles heel is those struts though. They are very sensitive to things like one side of the hatch being bumped or “ held, or manually lifting the hatch. This can cause an expensive repair. Also my 2017 XLE does have a lane assist button so I’m wondering why the 2019 wouldn’t? If I press that button and the road markings are clearly visible the vehicle beeps if you get too close to the centreline or the line between lanes or the side of the road. This is also accompanied by the steering wheel “ turning you “ back into the middle of the lines although this is not “autonomous”, the vehicle doesn’t steer itself just momentarily corrects your position. Here in Canada our version of the fuel consumption numbers stated that the 3rd Gen Highlander would get 30 mpg ( that’s an Imperal gallon meaning it’s 10% more than a US Gallon ). If I drive about 65 - 66 😅mph ( 105 km/hr. ) on a 100 km/hr highway including several hills mine gets 31-31.5 mpg ( about 28 US mpg ). Keep an eye on your brake’s calliper slide pins especially if you drive on dirt roads often or have near Canadian style winters . My front ones have seized twice in 80,000 miles, once at just under 32,000 miles and the rears seized about 15,000 miles ago. I do it myself and I suggest others can too just do it properly with the proper lubricant because I imagine Toyota dealerships would charge you an arm and a leg.
In January this year ended up getting my wife a CPO 2018 XLE with 15k miles with the captains chairs at Clearwater Toyota for $28 + tax tag title etc. Everything went perfect with the buying process with them. Highly recommend them. At the time they actually had a CPO 20’ with 2k miles XLE for $33.9...It was a good deal but we had our minds set on the ‘18. We have had it for three months now and we love it so much. My wife came from a 2007 Honda CRV so anything after that would be fancy for her lol. We have gone on 2 road trips so far and with two kids and fully loaded we have gotten the mpgs up to about 27.5 Two of my neighbors have the palisade and the Telluride etc. They always brag about all the bells and whistle they have. I have nothing against those cars and it looks like kia\hyundai have really improved and stepped up their game but I really don’t care for the bells and whistles. The Highlander is tried and tested and is plenty fancy for my wife and I considering I have a 2018 4R trd off-road
We just bought a 2019 Limited with 25k miles and love it. I could care less about apple car play cause we use XM or just play the Prime Music or Ipod music thats on our phones via USB plug 🤷🏼♂️. The price tag of the 2019 outweighs the mild tech enhancements on the 2020 to me
I seriously debated the 2020 and 2019 UNTIL I saw the cup holders on the floor of the 2020 and said NOPE... I just bought a 2019 yesterday... I got an amazing deal... people might think the cup holder thing is silly but the Ford Explorer has them on the floor too and I just feel that it’s easy to trip over... thanks for the review!
Yea the floor cupholders do get in the way... the way it was done in the 2019 is nice. I've also seen other manufacturers put them up front underneath climate controls which also works.
Andre N I agree.. Both are nice cars I went with Toyota because I know they have low repair cost and last forever; hence the 4Runner my husband drives with over 250,000 miles..
I was very undecided on which one should I bough a few weeks ago and really I ended buying the 2019 limited platinum . Love it , better look ,and sporty, compare to 2020 that looks more like the Mazda save .
I am very happy with my 2019 Highlander hybrid. Love the interior and exterior, especially the chrome grill. I like the quick access window on the hatchback. The highlander is a nice ride. My wife loves it and always drives when I am with her. Great video.
Just checking to see what kind of mileage you get for the 2019 hybrid? We recently bought one & I'm getting around 24-26 mpg around town. I love the suv itself but thought that it would do better on the mileage.
Our first tank was about the same mileage. It was fall weather. One trip the mileage was 30 mpg. We were getting around 26 mpg lately. Colder temperatures does drop the mpg (22-24) as said in the owners manual. I think a hybrid Highlander will average about 6 mpg better than the non hybrid. If the driver can ease into the throttle gas mileage improves. However this isn't easy to do since the Highlander hybrid is a zippy car.
Brian Jimenez thanks for the info. I’ve been watching other videos on best ways to drive the hybrid for better mileage & have been very careful with my starts and stops. I’ve also been trying to get up to speed, then let up on the gas and only accelerate when I need to, trying to keep the needle in the light green area (the area next to charge). Hopefully, I’ll get the hang of this & see some improvement. Thanks again for your info.
You failed to mention the 2019 has a rear glass that opens separate from the tailgate which I love is eliminated in the 2020 plus the rear window seams smaller due to more inner trim or whatever you call it. I see much better through the 2019.I wish my2019 hade Apple CarPlay but won trade the car for that. I do disagree with Toyota’s 10k oil changes I’ll go about 7k. Thank you, great video.
I wish it had carplay or android auto too. The fix isn't cheap either... replacing the center console with a system that will. It is annoying how Toyota took so long to support these features offered years ago.
Don't forget transmission drain and fill every 40-50k miles. At 100k, change out the oil strainer from transmission and clean up the transmission oil pan and magnets.
2019 looks much better than 2020 imo. I purchased a 2019 a month ago and the only regret was not getting it in 4wd. Other than that I'm happy with my purchase.
Keep in mind that the 2019 Highlander has a color dash display, nav, bluetooth, and a lot of features that not a lot of other cars offer. Hyundai, Honda, and Mercedes all have really nice tech as well, but some tech u have to pay extra for whereas toyota is more expensive probably because it offers more tech on more standard trims.
Visibility in 2019 much better and the 2019 just feels lighter, so better handling. That cup holder thing is a big deal...so 2019 much better. My biggest problem with the 2020 is the massive block screen that looks out of proportion.
Just bought a Gold Certified used 2019, 68,000 miles. Just so good, one owner, old guy who liked to fish, and it is well loved and fresh. Gonna drive it till it stops.
My wife and I are pleased with our recent decision on a 2019 Limited Platinum Hybrid with only 20 miles. We traded our 2009 Venza 208k excellent condition got 4500! Ended up at 46,000. New Venza coming out didn't look appealing and we wanted an upgrade. Having now bought 8 Toyotas we weren't looking for all the tech anything was an upgrade but the safety features, design and performance was well worth it!
Snagged a new 2019 Highlander Limited Platinum last week. Traded the 2017 Highlander Limited. There was the deal to be sure. I love the SUV, Style, Ride, and the bells and whistles! Never even looked at the 2020, maybe in 3 years....lol
My opinion of the 2018-19 style is it is more like the Lexus RX 350 style and is much better looking and classier looking whereas the 2021 version looks like the older 2014 to 2016 style. In my opinion the Highlander is a little low to the ground from the factory as the 2-in lift kit and 31 and a half inch tires makes it more like an off-road truck with luxury inside such as leather and heated seats and as much classier than a Tacoma or four runner and yet has the capability of them with a lift kit and bigger tires.
I been stuck in this purgatory for months now 2020 or 2019. Somewhere I read early 2020 model have major issues so buying a later in the year model or 2021 is out of the question for me. Besides I just can’t get over how ugly the 2020 looks, I’m from the south and the 2020 looks so much like a cat fish face. I can’t live with this for 5-6 years. So 2019 here I comes don’t need the fancy tech stuff just more to go wrong costing more to repair. Thanks for the video
Not correct, my 2019 LE came with a 3.5l and 8speed auto transmission which Toyota said was standard. 2019 LE has blind spot monitoring as well. Wind noise??? You should ride in my Jeep buddy, our Highlander is super quiet in comparison. Steering has power lane assist which nudges it back into the correct lane if you creep too close out of land without signaling. I looked at the 2020 and prefer the 2019 much more.
Feb. 2020- I just got one of the last two 2019 Highlander Hybrids remaining at my dealership near Philadelphia and I am SOOO glad I did!! I much prefer the outside (and, quite frankly, the inside) styling over the 2020; everything I need my phone to do while driving I can access via Bluetooth (and I did not enjoy interacting with Apple CarPlay when I did so in a rental vehicle a while ago), so I don’t miss CarPlay; I’m happy that the rear window opens; and I am thrilled with the improvement in ride quality, quietness, cargo & passenger space, interior ambiance, and XLE-trim level amenities over the repair-prone Grand Touring 2016 Mazda CX-5 I traded in!! My obviously much larger HYBRID Highlander is getting 3-6 mpg BETTER city mileage than that CX-5 small crossover, with the added benefit that I can use my Highlander to sleep in when I go camping this summer!! So far I am COMPLETELY pleased with my purchase, and have no regrets about not getting a higher trim level- I am deaf in one ear, so do not need a high-end sound system (and tweaking the settings on the one included with my XLE trim permitted me to experience the sensation of “stereo” sound for the first time in over 3 years!! Almost brought me to tears!); I have the AWD, heated side-view mirrors, auto-dimming rear view mirror, & power lift-gate I require; so I DON’T miss things- like the “puddle lights” (a moronic piece of tech that shines the word “Highlander” on the ground when you unlock the doors)- in higher trim levels. So if you think you’d make good use of a 2019, go ahead and grab one if you can while they are still available- I am delighted that I did!
Just got a 2019 SE 13K mi from Carmax (black, on black, on black, baby!)... even (+/-) swap with my 2016 MacanS 49K mi. Had my fun, but the cliff was seriously approaching. Time for some utility...
Men like 2019 as it looks like a semi (ie: Kenwood) and everyone wants to be a free spirit semi driver. Toyota should have continued with semi design - just switched to different brand looks (Peterbuilt) - and they would have continued to climb the charts. They stumbled upon this success in design by chance and weren’t smart enough to hold on to it.
The fact that the interior size is roughly the same leads me to the 2020 model. Fingers crossed 2022 brings a new design because that’s when we’re buying!
The SE trim in blacked out grill and wheels looks way better than the 2020 models and up! I just wish I could go back in time and buy a new one for the prices and incentives you show at the end of the video😢😭
You forgot the 2020 Hybrid has over 34mpg and they are selling cheaper than the gas version. The 2020 weigh less. Also 2020 frames are stiffer and more rigid.😄👍
Thigh cushion/support in the 2nd row could definitely have been a bit longer and more supportive to thighs. It won't take much money and weight to fix that issue, and would have definitely added to the over all comfort of the 2nd row seating. Now that the 2020 is out, I hope Toyota does something about the 2nd row seating considering the fact it is pitted against the mammoth pair Palisade/Telluride.
Hands down the 2019 blows the 2020 away on looks...We purchased a 2019 Platinum Edition and couldn't be happier..yes, I wish the infotainment system was better, I did a LED conversion on my low/high beams for less than $100.... the 2020 front end look way too much like the 2nd generation front...And although the 2020 may have more tech, I just do not care for what looks like a guitar for a dash...also I see no need for all the different drive modes and where they chose to put the buttons for them on the 2020 console...
You know, a car is good looking when it looks good and every color available. On the newer body I’d be very selective on which color I get it in. I do not like the side bulge.
Just got a 2019 HiHy 65k mi $30k out the door. I was looking at a platinum but my wife insists on the 2nd row bench which is rare in Limited and up so I had to settle for a LE model. The previous owner put in the CarPlay module so at least I have Waze and Pandora. I do not like the gen 4 version as it looks like they just glued in an iPad on the dash. It also has less cup holders than my old 2010 HiHy limited. I like the better gas mileage on the 2019 though. I also can seat 8 which is a plus as I have to transport kids and their friends to soccer. This may be my last Toyota purchase as the new models look like the engine choices are not ideal and the upscale options (pano sun roof) are not as reliable and prone to leaks.
2020 smaller gas tank at 17.9 gal compared to 2019 at 19.2 gals 2019 has thigh extender easy speak 2020 bad has electronic park brake. 2020 no cd player. choose 2019 over 2020. 2019 1 less mile per gallon than 2020 2020 no privacy glass on tailgate. then the recalls in millions
My family waited a long time for the 2020 HL, only to buy the 2019 HL after seeing the 2020. Why would I want to take my phone off it’s case to charge wirelessly every time. Toyota should have released this style in 2020 HL before releasing it in RAV4. I call the 2020 3rows/extension RAV4.
As someone who just bought a 2020 highlander platinum you don’t need to take the case off to wireless charge. Works fine on my iPhone 8 and my wife’s iPhone 11 Pro.
Like most boys, I have loved cars since I was a kid and even learned german just to keep up to date with the most recent developments in the beginning of the 90s. I own a great looking Mercedes E-series AMG but now we have two kids so we need something practical and reliable. The maintenance costs of the E-series - albeit great for Mercedes - are sky high in comparison to many other manufacturers. I absolutely love the exterior design of the ”old” Highlander. It is at the same time bold, neutral and in harmony. The front end reminds of the Land Cruiser and the back end of Grand Cherokee. The dashboard is very good (yes, the 2020 is better) and the digital clock reminds me of my first car, Nissan Sunny from the 80s. The 2020 has superb dashboard and premium feel but the exterior is pretty but bland.
Great all around thorough review! Thinking of purchasing a brand new 2019 but I haven't heard good things about the newer 8 speed tranny compared to the old bulletproof 6 speed.?
I must say I was disgusted with the images of the 2020. But I saw 1 or 2 in person on the road and it looks much better than images. However I still prefer the style of the 2019. Seems like the 2020 was Toyota way of over doing it to keep up with competition or "fit in"
I have a 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE, AWD, the rear hatch window will not unlock, I can unlock it manually, so I know it’s not seized, anyone know what’s wrong, and where is the fuse for the hatch window lock.
Thank you very much for this comparison! Really helps in seeing what's new/gone compared to my 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Sucks to see how they've crazily cheaped out on the second row seats. My 2012 Highlander Hybrid has captain chairs AND a removable center seat that can be stored under the driver/passenger center arm rest, and replaced with a removable cup holder with additional storage (can also be stored under arm rest). Both included in the vehicle.
2020 highlander is still a refresh. It's rocking 2019 engine and transmission lol. I don't like the new mix from 4runner and rav4 look. They made it look outdated on purpose since the younger of the two (rav4) is a year old now. No thanks
2019 for sure. Alot of the new options in the 2020 are not a big deal to me. Also I never like buying updated stuff right away. Let them get the kinks out of it.
I like the look of the 2019 better but I like the interior of the 2020, however the one thing that is a deal breaker for me is no CD player. I know everything is going digital but I have tons of CDs and sometimes you just want to throw one in. I’m disappointed the new models eliminated that. I don’t have time to download all my CDs to my phone
lol, agreed, all that the 2020 model has is that it has a nicer dashboard, and the 12' screen w autoplay. In my personal opinion the body style does look like a rav 4, not very appealing. autoplay can be added to the 2018 and 2019 models.
Me personally I would go with a Highlander. The infotainment is better and overall the car is a tad bigger. RX 350L Fsport....well that's another story. :)
go with Highlander, while they are both reliable, you will be surprised how much you will save in mild repairs and oil change on your Toyota. The Rx350 will cost a fortune in mild repairs, besides the ride comfort is almost on par with the 2020 versions
I had a 2019 hybrid Platinum. Had a lot of trouble with it. Traded it in for a 2021 hybrid Platinum. My wife loves the new 2021 over her 2019. The 2019 doesn't ride as smooth as a 2021. The 2021 is much much more quieter. Very happy we traded it anyway got the 2021 model.
2019 looks timeless, however Toyota needs to step it up like the palasade or the tellyouride from Korea, inknow Toyota has proven track record for reliability but thats it.
Yeah i have it on my 2014 highlander limited, i bought the xenon lights separately it fits perfect in the headlights, the remote start is accessory works perfectly, only bad part is car shuts off when open the door.
Has anyone had engine issues? Looking at a used 33k km on it and my in-law somehow believes that it might be a lemon based on something he saw online with engine stalling when driving and electrical issues.
You guys are trying so hard to make the 2020 Toyota Highlander better than the 2017-2019 Toyota Highlander. BUT THE TRUTH IS THAT THE 2017-2019 is a great vehicle and Toyota was UNABLE to create a better Toyota Highlander with the 2020 model. SORRY!!!
I absolutely like everything about the 2019.
Same here
2019 Highlander = Typical Toyota design language
20’ has LED headlights.
@@iishyxvietxboyii so does the 2019
@@Gogeta2vegito 2019 has LED daytime running lights. Low beam is H11 halogen.
The separately opening back window was such a great feature. I'm surprised others haven't added it. I'm so disappointed that Toyota got rid of it.
I have a 2017 Highlander XLE so I’m pretty sure it’s the same as the 2019. I like the opening rear window glass which saves on using the power rear door if you just need to put a few things in the back. There’s probably a reason Toyota stopped using that feature in the 4th Generation ( 2020+) but I like it. I heard unofficially that many customers complained because if you close the rear glass and don’t close it properly the rear hatch won’t work. It’s pretty easy to do that was the glass looks like it’s fully closed even when it hasn’t “ latched “ properly. As a side note, the rear hatch also won’t open if you have accidentally pushed the small black button on the left side of the plastic frame that the glove box sirs in. I accidentally pushed that while changing the cabin air filter and the vehicle would “ beep “ when you pushed the button on the drivers side , the button on the key fob or the button on the hatch just above the license plate but the hatch wouldn’t open. I checked the rear glass to see if that was ajar but it wasn’t . I phone the “ local” dealership and was told it was the power struts and the struts themselves cost over $800 Canadian dollars. Found a RUclipsrs video after checking a half dozen or more and he gave 4 reasons why the hatch may not open. Reason #2 was that button beside the glove box ( with the glove box open ). One Achilles heel is those struts though. They are very sensitive to things like one side of the hatch being bumped or “ held, or manually lifting the hatch. This can cause an expensive repair. Also my 2017 XLE does have a lane assist button so I’m wondering why the 2019 wouldn’t? If I press that button and the road markings are clearly visible the vehicle beeps if you get too close to the centreline or the line between lanes or the side of the road. This is also accompanied by the steering wheel “ turning you “ back into the middle of the lines although this is not “autonomous”, the vehicle doesn’t steer itself just momentarily corrects your position. Here in Canada our version of the fuel consumption numbers stated that the 3rd Gen Highlander would get 30 mpg ( that’s an Imperal gallon meaning it’s 10% more than a US Gallon ). If I drive about 65 - 66 😅mph ( 105 km/hr. ) on a 100 km/hr highway including several hills mine gets 31-31.5 mpg ( about 28 US mpg ). Keep an eye on your brake’s calliper slide pins especially if you drive on dirt roads often or have near Canadian style winters . My front ones have seized twice in 80,000 miles, once at just under 32,000 miles and the rears seized about 15,000 miles ago. I do it myself and I suggest others can too just do it properly with the proper lubricant because I imagine Toyota dealerships would charge you an arm and a leg.
In January this year ended up getting my wife a CPO 2018 XLE with 15k miles with the captains chairs at Clearwater Toyota for $28 + tax tag title etc. Everything went perfect with the buying process with them. Highly recommend them. At the time they actually had a CPO 20’ with 2k miles XLE for $33.9...It was a good deal but we had our minds set on the ‘18. We have had it for three months now and we love it so much. My wife came from a 2007 Honda CRV so anything after that would be fancy for her lol. We have gone on 2 road trips so far and with two kids and fully loaded we have gotten the mpgs up to about 27.5
Two of my neighbors have the palisade and the Telluride etc. They always brag about all the bells and whistle they have. I have nothing against those cars and it looks like kia\hyundai have really improved and stepped up their game but I really don’t care for the bells and whistles. The Highlander is tried and tested and is plenty fancy for my wife and I considering I have a 2018 4R trd off-road
$6,200 off of MSRP and paid off in 22 months at 1.9%. No way I’m getting rid of my 2019 Toyota Highlander Limited.
I would take a 2020 interior in a 2019 body😜
Ruslan Gurshumov my thoughts exactly
Tru
Well said.
Damn right. 😂
aesthetically, the 2020 interior is retarded.
We just bought a 2019 Limited with 25k miles and love it. I could care less about apple car play cause we use XM or just play the Prime Music or Ipod music thats on our phones via USB plug 🤷🏼♂️. The price tag of the 2019 outweighs the mild tech enhancements on the 2020 to me
I seriously debated the 2020 and 2019 UNTIL I saw the cup holders on the floor of the 2020 and said NOPE... I just bought a 2019 yesterday... I got an amazing deal... people might think the cup holder thing is silly but the Ford Explorer has them on the floor too and I just feel that it’s easy to trip over... thanks for the review!
Yea the floor cupholders do get in the way... the way it was done in the 2019 is nice. I've also seen other manufacturers put them up front underneath climate controls which also works.
This shows how clever Kia and Hyundai engineers are. Palisade and Telluride have the cupholders placed anywhere but on the floor.
Andre N I agree.. Both are nice cars I went with Toyota because I know they have low repair cost and last forever; hence the 4Runner my husband drives with over 250,000 miles..
@@heatherferris8801 Yup exactly! Actually, my next video is focused on Toyota's reliability :).
@@Ken-vl4wk Reviewing a Telluride soon, let's see how good it is!
2019 all day
I was very undecided on which one should I bough a few weeks ago and really I ended buying the 2019 limited platinum . Love it , better look ,and sporty, compare to 2020 that looks more like the Mazda save .
I am very happy with my 2019 Highlander hybrid. Love the interior and exterior, especially the chrome grill. I like the quick access window on the hatchback. The highlander is a nice ride. My wife loves it and always drives when I am with her.
Great video.
Thanks Brian. Yes the 2019 Highlander is a great SUV.
Just checking to see what kind of mileage you get for the 2019 hybrid? We recently bought one & I'm getting around 24-26 mpg around town. I love the suv itself but thought that it would do better on the mileage.
Our first tank was about the same mileage. It was fall weather. One trip the mileage was 30 mpg. We were getting around 26 mpg lately. Colder temperatures does drop the mpg (22-24) as said in the owners manual. I think a hybrid Highlander will average about 6 mpg better than the non hybrid. If the driver can ease into the throttle gas mileage improves. However this isn't easy to do since the Highlander hybrid is a zippy car.
Brian Jimenez thanks for the info. I’ve been watching other videos on best ways to drive the hybrid for better mileage & have been very careful with my starts and stops. I’ve also been trying to get up to speed, then let up on the gas and only accelerate when I need to, trying to keep the needle in the light green area (the area next to charge). Hopefully, I’ll get the hang of this & see some improvement. Thanks again for your info.
Brian Jimenez I’m currently getting about 23.3 around town. Short trips w/lots of starts & stops.
Scotty Kilmer's advice, never buy a new production car.
So what does Kilmer do? He runs out and buys a 2018 Supra in its first year of production. LOL!
@@TaterPS yeah but he’s probably rich so it won’t really matter lol
You failed to mention the 2019 has a rear glass that opens separate from the tailgate which I love is eliminated in the 2020 plus the rear window seams smaller due to more inner trim or whatever you call it. I see much better through the 2019.I wish my2019 hade Apple CarPlay but won trade the car for that. I do disagree with Toyota’s 10k oil changes I’ll go about 7k. Thank you, great video.
I have a 2018 and installed apple car play no problem…. Also I agree never will I go 10k it’s every 5k for me
I wish it had carplay or android auto too. The fix isn't cheap either... replacing the center console with a system that will. It is annoying how Toyota took so long to support these features offered years ago.
he mentioned it in the Good slide
Don't forget transmission drain and fill every 40-50k miles. At 100k, change out the oil strainer from transmission and clean up the transmission oil pan and magnets.
2019 looks much better than 2020 imo. I purchased a 2019 a month ago and the only regret was not getting it in 4wd. Other than that I'm happy with my purchase.
Keep in mind that the 2019 Highlander has a color dash display, nav, bluetooth, and a lot of features that not a lot of other cars offer. Hyundai, Honda, and Mercedes all have really nice tech as well, but some tech u have to pay extra for whereas toyota is more expensive probably because it offers more tech on more standard trims.
Toyota is all around reliable too
Visibility in 2019 much better and the 2019 just feels lighter, so better handling. That cup holder thing is a big deal...so 2019 much better. My biggest problem with the 2020 is the massive block screen that looks out of proportion.
2019 rear hatch glass opens whereas 2020 does not. 2019 has aggressive front grill whereas 2020 is a meek looking copy of Subaru.
2019 has the more robust V6, even in hybrid versions; unlike the newer ones
Totally agree!
Just bought a Gold Certified used 2019, 68,000 miles.
Just so good, one owner, old guy who liked to fish, and it is well loved and fresh.
Gonna drive it till it stops.
How much??
I love my 2019 xle awd
Reaching 70k drives amazing
My wife and I are pleased with our recent decision on a 2019 Limited Platinum Hybrid with only 20 miles. We traded our 2009 Venza 208k excellent condition got 4500! Ended up at 46,000. New Venza coming out didn't look appealing and we wanted an upgrade. Having now bought 8 Toyotas we weren't looking for all the tech anything was an upgrade but the safety features, design and performance was well worth it!
Newer does not mean better. Personally, I would have kept the 09 Venza.
Snagged a new 2019 Highlander Limited Platinum last week. Traded the 2017 Highlander Limited. There was the deal to be sure. I love the SUV, Style, Ride, and the bells and whistles! Never even looked at the 2020, maybe in 3 years....lol
I just bought the 2019 Highlander. Went with that model since Toyota decided to make the 2020 ugly.
2019 definitely
I have 2019 and just got 2020 for my wife but 2019 butter....
My opinion of the 2018-19 style is it is more like the Lexus RX 350 style and is much better looking and classier looking whereas the 2021 version looks like the older 2014 to 2016 style. In my opinion the Highlander is a little low to the ground from the factory as the 2-in lift kit and 31 and a half inch tires makes it more like an off-road truck with luxury inside such as leather and heated seats and as much classier than a Tacoma or four runner and yet has the capability of them with a lift kit and bigger tires.
I been stuck in this purgatory for months now 2020 or 2019. Somewhere I read early 2020 model have major issues so buying a later in the year model or 2021 is out of the question for me. Besides I just can’t get over how ugly the 2020 looks, I’m from the south and the 2020 looks so much like a cat fish face. I can’t live with this for 5-6 years. So 2019 here I comes don’t need the fancy tech stuff just more to go wrong costing more to repair. Thanks for the video
'03 V6 4WD Highlander 40k mi. '17 Taco 4WD TRD, '19 highlander Limited. Done !
And the award goes to the 2019 Highlander because the 2020 isn’t all that attractive
Miguel Ircontar I agree
Not correct, my 2019 LE came with a 3.5l and 8speed auto transmission which Toyota said was standard. 2019 LE has blind spot monitoring as well. Wind noise??? You should ride in my Jeep buddy, our Highlander is super quiet in comparison. Steering has power lane assist which nudges it back into the correct lane if you creep too close out of land without signaling. I looked at the 2020 and prefer the 2019 much more.
Feb. 2020- I just got one of the last two 2019 Highlander Hybrids remaining at my dealership near Philadelphia and I am SOOO glad I did!! I much prefer the outside (and, quite frankly, the inside) styling over the 2020; everything I need my phone to do while driving I can access via Bluetooth (and I did not enjoy interacting with Apple CarPlay when I did so in a rental vehicle a while ago), so I don’t miss CarPlay; I’m happy that the rear window opens; and I am thrilled with the improvement in ride quality, quietness, cargo & passenger space, interior ambiance, and XLE-trim level amenities over the repair-prone Grand Touring 2016 Mazda CX-5 I traded in!! My obviously much larger HYBRID Highlander is getting 3-6 mpg BETTER city mileage than that CX-5 small crossover, with the added benefit that I can use my Highlander to sleep in when I go camping this summer!! So far I am COMPLETELY pleased with my purchase, and have no regrets about not getting a higher trim level- I am deaf in one ear, so do not need a high-end sound system (and tweaking the settings on the one included with my XLE trim permitted me to experience the sensation of “stereo” sound for the first time in over 3 years!! Almost brought me to tears!); I have the AWD, heated side-view mirrors, auto-dimming rear view mirror, & power lift-gate I require; so I DON’T miss things- like the “puddle lights” (a moronic piece of tech that shines the word “Highlander” on the ground when you unlock the doors)- in higher trim levels. So if you think you’d make good use of a 2019, go ahead and grab one if you can while they are still available- I am delighted that I did!
Congrats!!
Just got a 2019 SE 13K mi from Carmax (black, on black, on black, baby!)... even (+/-) swap with my 2016 MacanS 49K mi. Had my fun, but the cliff was seriously approaching. Time for some utility...
2019 💪
For sure !!!
Men like 2019 as it looks like a semi (ie: Kenwood) and everyone wants to be a free spirit semi driver. Toyota should have continued with semi design - just switched to different brand looks (Peterbuilt) - and they would have continued to climb the charts. They stumbled upon this success in design by chance and weren’t smart enough to hold on to it.
Toyota Highlander 💪❤️
I love my 2019 Highlander!!!❤
2019 is cheaper and more reliable. Plus I heard the 2020 already had a major recall with the engine shutting down. I would wait to get the new model.
The fact that the interior size is roughly the same leads me to the 2020 model. Fingers crossed 2022 brings a new design because that’s when we’re buying!
The SE trim in blacked out grill and wheels looks way better than the 2020 models and up!
I just wish I could go back in time and buy a new one for the prices and incentives you show at the end of the video😢😭
You forgot the 2020 Hybrid has over 34mpg and they are selling cheaper than the gas version. The 2020 weigh less. Also 2020 frames are stiffer and more rigid.😄👍
Its looking better than new model
This is the best review ever !!! 2020 all the way
Appreciate it!
I do think 18 n 19 better than newer style
and 2020 has a smaller gas tank at 17.9 gallons compared to 2019 with 19.2
All the talk about screen tech makes me wonder how much time people are looking at the screen instead of the road.
why does the front of the 2020 look old and like a mazda/older highlander from like 2014
Thigh cushion/support in the 2nd row could definitely have been a bit longer and more supportive to thighs. It won't take much money and weight to fix that issue, and would have definitely added to the over all comfort of the 2nd row seating. Now that the 2020 is out, I hope Toyota does something about the 2nd row seating considering the fact it is pitted against the mammoth pair Palisade/Telluride.
Going to test out the Palisade and Telluride soon and see how they compare.
Hands down the 2019 blows the 2020 away on looks...We purchased a 2019 Platinum Edition and couldn't be happier..yes, I wish the infotainment system was better, I did a LED conversion on my low/high beams for less than $100.... the 2020 front end look way too much like the 2nd generation front...And although the 2020 may have more tech, I just do not care for what looks like a guitar for a dash...also I see no need for all the different drive modes and where they chose to put the buttons for them on the 2020 console...
Exactly the video I needed. Thanks so much!
The 2020 hybrid gets 35 mpg. Nothing else matters.
You know, a car is good looking when it looks good and every color available. On the newer body I’d be very selective on which color I get it in. I do not like the side bulge.
Exterior design 2014-2016 is best mixture with discreet chrome modification.
Have a 2017 highlander so far so good
Just got a 2019 HiHy 65k mi $30k out the door. I was looking at a platinum but my wife insists on the 2nd row bench which is rare in Limited and up so I had to settle for a LE model. The previous owner put in the CarPlay module so at least I have Waze and Pandora. I do not like the gen 4 version as it looks like they just glued in an iPad on the dash. It also has less cup holders than my old 2010 HiHy limited. I like the better gas mileage on the 2019 though. I also can seat 8 which is a plus as I have to transport kids and their friends to soccer. This may be my last Toyota purchase as
the new models look like the engine choices are not ideal and the upscale options (pano sun roof) are not as reliable and prone to leaks.
My toyota highlander 2019 se i love it. It has the power i need and comfortable
Very helpful videos!
You're welcome!
2020 smaller gas tank at 17.9 gal compared to 2019 at 19.2 gals 2019 has thigh extender easy speak 2020 bad has electronic park brake. 2020 no cd player. choose 2019 over 2020. 2019 1 less mile per gallon than 2020 2020 no privacy glass on tailgate. then the recalls in millions
My family waited a long time for the 2020 HL, only to buy the 2019 HL after seeing the 2020. Why would I want to take my phone off it’s case to charge wirelessly every time. Toyota should have released this style in 2020 HL before releasing it in RAV4. I call the 2020 3rows/extension RAV4.
Agreed, it does looks like rav4
As someone who just bought a 2020 highlander platinum you don’t need to take the case off to wireless charge. Works fine on my iPhone 8 and my wife’s iPhone 11 Pro.
Lol, and now everyone says the Grand HL looks like the Rav 4. You need to visit the eye doctor.
Like most boys, I have loved cars since I was a kid and even learned german just to keep up to date with the most recent developments in the beginning of the 90s. I own a great looking Mercedes E-series AMG but now we have two kids so we need something practical and reliable. The maintenance costs of the E-series - albeit great for Mercedes - are sky high in comparison to many other manufacturers. I absolutely love the exterior design of the ”old” Highlander. It is at the same time bold, neutral and in harmony. The front end reminds of the Land Cruiser and the back end of Grand Cherokee. The dashboard is very good (yes, the 2020 is better) and the digital clock reminds me of my first car, Nissan Sunny from the 80s. The 2020 has superb dashboard and premium feel but the exterior is pretty but bland.
Great all around thorough review! Thinking of purchasing a brand new 2019 but I haven't heard good things about the newer 8 speed tranny compared to the old bulletproof 6 speed.?
I must say I was disgusted with the images of the 2020. But I saw 1 or 2 in person on the road and it looks much better than images. However I still prefer the style of the 2019. Seems like the 2020 was Toyota way of over doing it to keep up with competition or "fit in"
I have a 2017 Toyota Highlander XLE, AWD, the rear hatch window will not unlock, I can unlock it manually, so I know it’s not seized, anyone know what’s wrong, and where is the fuse for the hatch window lock.
Thanks, this one on my list there are some really good deals for this year/model.
Bought mine from SunTOYOTA. Great Dealership. 👍
I would prefer the XSE Highlander 2021 exterior and the 2020 platinum interior
Trailer hitch installation is more problematic with the 2020/21 than the 2019.
What type of transmission; is it a CVT ((bad transmission))??? The spare tire, is it a full size tire???
Thank you very much for this comparison! Really helps in seeing what's new/gone compared to my 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
Sucks to see how they've crazily cheaped out on the second row seats. My 2012 Highlander Hybrid has captain chairs AND a removable center seat that can be stored under the driver/passenger center arm rest, and replaced with a removable cup holder with additional storage (can also be stored under arm rest). Both included in the vehicle.
Toyota/Lexus ❤️
I prefer to buy last year model of any car brands.
2020 for sure.
Damn, the whole video I was like this guy's voice sounds so familiar
2020 highlander is still a refresh. It's rocking 2019 engine and transmission lol. I don't like the new mix from 4runner and rav4 look. They made it look outdated on purpose since the younger of the two (rav4) is a year old now. No thanks
I have Highlander 2011 I feel bad about 2020 it’s like 2014-2016 model!!
👍
2019👍
I knew I recognized your voice, you're George from the Crypto R Us channel.
Toyota Highlander 2019 and Acura RDX Blue edition 2020 👍
Hatch glass is the best
2019 for sure. Alot of the new options in the 2020 are not a big deal to me. Also I never like buying updated stuff right away. Let them get the kinks out of it.
2019
I like the look of the 2019 better but I like the interior of the 2020, however the one thing that is a deal breaker for me is no CD player. I know everything is going digital but I have tons of CDs and sometimes you just want to throw one in. I’m disappointed the new models eliminated that. I don’t have time to download all my CDs to my phone
Portable Bluetooth CD player. Many on the market.
I intentionally bought the 2019 instead of the 2020.
2019 is outdated, 2020 looks modern. I would rather buy a 2020 LE instead of 2019 XLE or Limited.
Yea when you want an overly priced RAV 4 with 3rows.
lol, agreed, all that the 2020 model has is that it has a nicer dashboard, and the 12' screen w autoplay. In my personal opinion the body style does look like a rav 4, not very appealing. autoplay can be added to the 2018 and 2019 models.
autoplay can be added to the 2018 and 2019 models.
I prefer the front look of the 2019 highlander...the 2020 front grill would be ok on a pickup truck...with its bulky look.....
2019 looks better.
agreed
This a re-uploaded video, you made the same one about 3 days ago.
Edit: Sorry my friend, this is a different video 👍🏾
Lol
Where is your dealer located?
Higlander 2020 or rx 350l 2020🤔
Me personally I would go with a Highlander. The infotainment is better and overall the car is a tad bigger. RX 350L Fsport....well that's another story. :)
go with Highlander, while they are both reliable, you will be surprised how much you will save in mild repairs and oil change on your Toyota. The Rx350 will cost a fortune in mild repairs, besides the ride comfort is almost on par with the 2020 versions
I had a 2019 hybrid Platinum. Had a lot of trouble with it. Traded it in for a 2021 hybrid Platinum. My wife loves the new 2021 over her 2019. The 2019 doesn't ride as smooth as a 2021. The 2021 is much much more quieter. Very happy we traded it anyway got the 2021 model.
2019 looks timeless, however Toyota needs to step it up like the palasade or the tellyouride from Korea, inknow Toyota has proven track record for reliability but thats it.
Did you see my 2020 review?
No, but i will watch it asap
Has anyone been able to get remote start or Xenon lights installed on 2019?
Yeah i have it on my 2014 highlander limited, i bought the xenon lights separately it fits perfect in the headlights, the remote start is accessory works perfectly, only bad part is car shuts off when open the door.
There is a secret if you press the lock button three times and hold it you should be able to remote start
Hello, I’m highlander. We’re all highlander
Has anyone had engine issues? Looking at a used 33k km on it and my in-law somehow believes that it might be a lemon based on something he saw online with engine stalling when driving and electrical issues.
I actually have a 2018 and love it just wish I had gotten awd. Also did u know that shade of white is called blizzard pearl
Does the XLE have a quiet engine
2019 is more pleasant look for all time hit as well but 2020 is will not be
2020 is a practical suv
The 2019 looks way better than the 2020 insides out 👍
2019 is aero dynamic compared to the 2020 boring style outside 👎
why does the radio blink when you hit bumps?
2019 with an update screen
You guys are trying so hard to make the 2020 Toyota Highlander better than the 2017-2019 Toyota Highlander. BUT THE TRUTH IS THAT THE 2017-2019 is a great vehicle and Toyota was UNABLE to create a better Toyota Highlander with the 2020 model. SORRY!!!
Do they have a remote start?
any info on the adaptive cruise control, i believe the 2020 version allow start and go from 0 mph.
With safety sense 2.0 you do get Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
@@DriversOnly thanks.. i was hoping to get a 2019, but living in a congested area, full range cruise control is a necessity.
have the 17 reefresh. my nextone will be the hyundai palisade