Toyota engineers have been spotted testing a prototype for a redesigned Highlander.

The current generation of the popular three-row family hauler arrived for 2014 and was given a mid-cycle refresh for 2017. This redesigned model is expected in late 2019 as a 2020 model.

The prototype is heavily camouflaged but details of the vehicle's face can be seen. It looks like Toyota has adopted a similar look to the redesigned 2019 RAV4, with the grille shape appearing almost identical.

The rest of the prototype looks to feature a more fluid design than the rigid lines of the RAV4, resulting in a cleaner, more upscale look better suited to the Highlander's target demographic.

2020 Toyota Highlander spy shots

The redesigned Highlander looks to be slightly longer than the current model, with should go some way toward alleviating the issue of the current model's cramped third row. The current model also has just 13.8 cubic feet of storage before folding the rear seats, so hopefully this new one has more.

Despite the increase in size, we hear the redesigned Highlander might end up being lighter than the model it replaces. This is likely due to a new platform, specifically a stretched version of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) modular design.

It's not clear what powertrains Toyota has planned but you can count on a hybrid option, possibly with plug-in hybrid technology. A standalone V-6 should also be on offer.

Toyota's redesigned Highlander is going to have a tough time on the market as it will be going up against a much-improved Ford Explorer that's also due for 2020. Buick's latest Enclave is also a solid option in this class and then there are the newcomers like the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride and Subaru Ascent.