
The audio system in the Highlander is from the JBL Premium series. Introduction to the Highlander's vehicle configuration: In terms of interior design, the 2020 model features a stronger sense of technology and luxury. The dashboard incorporates rich design lines and elements, adding ambient lighting and two-tone stitching decorations. The center console screen adopts a semi-floating design, exuding a high-tech feel, and the instrument panel is fully digital. The interior of the Highlander largely continues the layout and design of the current model, with upgrades in details. The instrument panel has been upgraded from a 3.5-inch monochrome display to a 4.2-inch color display (excluding the Elite version), capable of showing vehicle information, turn-by-turn navigation, and AWD four-wheel drive torque distribution, among others.

I recently purchased a new Highlander and did some research on its audio configuration. The top trim comes with a premium JBL sound system featuring 11 speakers, delivering exceptional surround sound when listening to music in the cabin. While the mid and lower trims don’t specify the brand, the audio clarity is still quite good. If your budget allows, I’d recommend going for the top trim—the immersive experience on long drives is absolutely worth it. For aftermarket audio upgrades, pay attention to wiring compatibility, as some owners adding subwoofers end up disrupting the factory-tuned audio balance. The Highlander’s spacious cabin is a natural advantage for sound quality, but the infotainment system also plays a big role, so I’d suggest opting for the latest multimedia version.

Last month, I accompanied a friend to pick up their Highlander, and the salesperson specifically introduced the audio system. The top trim indeed comes with a JBL system, and when testing it with pop music, every drumbeat had distinct layers. Although the base model doesn’t have a branded system, it’s perfectly adequate for daily radio and podcasts. I highly recommend testing the audio differences between configurations before buying, as seat materials and window insulation can affect the actual listening experience. Third-party audio upgrades are quite mature now, but post-modification, the vehicle warranty might be impacted. The factory JBL’s green logo on the door speaker grilles adds a touch of premium feel—a small detail that enhances the joy of driving.

As someone who frequently tests audio systems across different car models, the Highlander's setup left a deep impression on me. The top trim with JBL speakers performs exceptionally well for vocals and light music, featuring an 11-speaker layout with dedicated tweeters under the windshield. The mid-range trim delivers more conventional sound quality. During actual use, I found the head unit's EQ adjustment crucial—boosting mid frequencies makes voice navigation clearer. For audio upgrades, it's safest to retain the factory amplifier and simply replace the speakers. The Highlander's trunk has ample space for a subwoofer, but pay attention to secure mounting to prevent rattles.


