The Toyota Highlander has long been a favorite among families and adventure-seekers alike due to its spacious cabin, advanced technology, and robust reliability. One of the key questions potential buyers often ask is: Is the Toyota Highlander a full-time AWD? If you’re considering this popular midsize SUV, especially if you live in a climate with harsh winters or want better off-road performance, understanding the intricacies of its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is crucial. In this article, we’ll thoroughly examine the Highlander’s AWD system, including its availability across trim levels, how it operates, and which configuration might be best suited for your lifestyle.
Understanding the Highlander’s All-Wheel Drive System
Before diving into whether the Toyota Highlander uses full-time AWD, it’s important to understand the various AWD configurations used in modern vehicles. While some cars have full-time AWD — where all four wheels are consistently engaged — others operate with part-time or on-demand systems that only send power to the non-driving axle when needed.
In the case of the Toyota Highlander, the system used is known as Dynamic Torque Control AWD, developed by Toyota and found in many of its SUVs and crossovers. This system is on-demand, meaning it typically operates in front-wheel drive (FWD) and engages the rear wheels only when additional traction is required. This approach is highly efficient for maximizing fuel economy while still offering real-time traction control when road conditions deteriorate.
The Role of AWD in the Toyota Highlander’s Drivetrain
The Toyota Highlander’s AWD system is engineered to improve grip, stability, and control in adverse conditions such as rain, snow, or light off-roading. It uses sensors to monitor wheel slip, throttle input, steering angle, and braking force to determine when it should activate the rear wheels. This automation makes the system very user-friendly and largely transparent to the driver during routine driving.
It’s also worth noting that the system is not a traditional locking differential or constant power split. Instead, it uses a multi-plate clutch arrangement controlled by the Electronic On-Demand AWD mechanism. This allows Toyota to optimize fuel efficiency compared to full-time AWD systems seen in other brands like Subaru or Audi.
AWD in Hybrid and Gasoline-Powered Highlanders
The AWD system behaves slightly differently depending on the Highlander’s powertrain. For the gasoline-powered models, AWD works via that electronically controlled clutch. However, in the Hybrid Highlander, the rear axle is driven by a dedicated independent electric motor, which adds a different dimension of control.
This means that in hybrid versions:
- AWD is activated whenever the rear motor determines additional traction is needed.
- Better torque vectoring due to the presence of multiple motors.
- Improved fuel economy as the rear motor only engages when necessary.
Nonetheless, in both versions, the system operates on-demand rather than continuously, which directly answers: no, the Toyota Highlander is not full-time AWD.
AWD Availability in Different Highlander Trims
Toyota offers the Highlanders with a range of powertrain options, including both gas and hybrid configurations. The availability of AWD differs slightly depending on the trim level and drivetrain you choose.
AWD on Highlander Gasoline Models
The 2024 Hyundai Highlander with a 2.4-liter turbo-four engine produces 265 HP and comes standard with front-wheel drive. However, AWD is optional on the LE, XLE, and Limited trims. Here’s how it breaks down:
| Trim Level | Standard Drivetrain | Available AWD? |
|---|---|---|
| LE | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Yes – Optional |
| XLE | FWD | Yes – Optional |
| Limited | FWD | Yes – Optional |
| Platinum | FWD | No – Standard Hybrid AWD Only |
| Capstone | FWD | No – Standard Hybrid AWD Only |
If you’re considering the gas-powered versions, be aware that the higher Platinum and Capstone trims no longer offer a non-hybrid AWD configuration.
AWD on Highlander Hybrid Models
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine paired with an electric motor system, achieving an impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy rating. The Hybrid model lineup, in 2024, includes AWD as standard on the following trims:
- XSE
- Platinum
- Capstone
This AWD in the hybrid is not just the traditional version but is instead powered by an additional electric motor on the rear axle, providing better responsiveness and traction control. This also eliminates the mechanical connection between front and rear axles for greater efficiency.
Comparing AWD vs FWD in the Toyota Highlander
When deciding between AWD and FWD on your next Highlander, several factors should be considered:
Fuel Economy
One of the biggest trade-offs with AWD is reduced fuel efficiency due to increased weight and drivetrain losses. Depending on the trim, opting for AWD may reduce your combined fuel economy by about 1–2 mpg compared to FWD models.
On the 2024 models:
- Gasoline AWD LE: ~21 mpg combined
- Gasoline FWD LE: ~22 mpg combined
- Hybrid AWD LE: ~36 mpg combined
Performance and Handling
While AWD does not drastically improve performance, it can provide better handling in slippery conditions or during high-speed cornering. Many owners have reported a slightly more confident driving experience during snowstorms or in off-road conditions with AWD.
Resale Value
Though not always a guarantee, AWD variants tend to fetch slightly higher resale values in certain regions of the U.S., especially where snow is common. This added traction becomes a point of attraction for used car buyers in northern states.
Benefits of the Highlander’s On-Demand AWD System
Now that you know the Toyota Highlander doesn’t use a full-time AWD system, you might wonder: what are the actual benefits of its on-demand setup?
1. Superior Fuel Economy Compared to Full-Time AWD
The lack of a constant mechanical link allows the Highlander to operate like a front-wheel-drive SUV most of the time. This reduces rotational losses and allows for improved fuel economy.
2. Intelligent Traction Allocation
Thanks to real-time monitoring by the ECU, the system can detect wheel slip and deliver power to the rear wheels in fractions of a second. This keeps the vehicle stable without driver intervention.
3. Reduced Wear and Tear on Components
Since the system is not engaged all the time, mechanical wear on the driveshaft, rear differential, and other components is significantly reduced. This can result in longer component life and lower maintenance costs over time.
4. Environmental Friendliness
By only engaging AWD when necessary, the system helps minimize fuel consumption and CO2 emissions — a key advantage for hybrid and environmentally-conscious buyers.
Who Should Consider AWD in the Toyota Highlander?
Purchasers new to AWD systems may wonder if it’s worth the cost and fuel economy trade-off. Below are some considerations:
Drivers in Snowbelt States
If you reside in Michigan, Colorado, New York, or Minnesota, having all-wheel drive can be a game-changer when the snow piles high. AWD helps prevent the vehicle from getting stuck and provides more control when roads are icy or slippery.
Adventurous Commuters Seeking Light Off-Road Capability
While the Toyota Highlander isn’t a dedicated off-roader, those who drive periodically off paved roads — think gravel for a cabin retreat or rural roads post-storm — could benefit from extra grip that AWD can provide.
Families Who Value Extra Safety
AWD provides a noticeable increase in vehicle stability in rain or snow, giving families peace of mind during unpredictable conditions typically encountered during school transportation or weekend travel.
Who Might Be Better Off With FWD?
On the flip side, there are cases where FWD is entirely sufficient, if not better:
City-Based Drivers
If your daily commute consists solely of dry or well-maintained paved roads, FWD is more than adequate. The simpler drivetrain also reduces maintenance costs over the vehicle’s lifespan.
Budget-Conscious Buyers
AWD often comes with a premium at the time of purchase, usually $1,500–$2,500 over FWD configurations. For those wanting to save on initial costs (and fuel), this may not be worth it unless you have a clear need for AWD.
Eco-Focused Consumers
FWD is key for maximizing fuel economy. In the hybrid variants, owners already gain excellent economy with AWD, but FWD-only configurations offer even further reductions in fuel consumption.
Real-World Experiences: Do Highlander AWD Owners Get the Traction They Need?
Many reviews and owner reports suggest that the Highlander’s AWD system is more than capable in most weather conditions short of serious snow events or deep snow terrain. Owners in moderate climates with occasional snow typically find the system handles their needs well without sacrificing reliability or fuel efficiency.
However, it’s important to note that AWD only helps with getting power to the ground more effectively, not with braking or turning during adverse weather. Tires and driving habits remain among the most critical components for safe winter driving.
Several Reddit and automotive forum threads reveal that while AWD Highlanders rarely get stuck on snowy roads, owners are still advised to use snow tires for optimal performance during the winter.
Conclusion: So Is the Toyota Highlander a Full-Time AWD?
The answer to the initial question — Is the Toyota Highlander a full-time AWD? — is straightforward yet nuanced:
- In a technical sense, no. The standard Dynamic Torque Control AWD system in the gas-powered Highlander and the hybrid models operates on-demand, not full-time.
- Hybrid models add their own twist with a dedicated rear electric motor, which improves efficiency and activation speed, but again, does not drive all four wheels at all times.
- While the system is intelligent and responsive, it is optimized for everyday driving and not full-time off-road operation.
Whether or not the Highlander’s AWD system meets your needs depends largely on your driving environment, expectations, and budget. For most owners, this AWD offering is more than adequate in mixed conditions but doesn’t aim to compete with more rugged all-wheel or four-wheel drive systems.
If you’re shopping for a Toyota Highlander, remember that AWD availability depends on your chosen trim and engine type. You should take time to test drive both configurations, assess your climate needs, and decide if the trade-offs in fuel economy and cost are acceptable for the added safety and control that AWD provides.
Ultimately, Toyota’s AWD options in the Highlander are a smart blend of performance, efficiency, and peace of mind — and that’s exactly what the average driver in a moderate or slightly challenging climate is looking for.
Is the Toyota Highlander a full-time AWD?
The Toyota Highlander is not a full-time all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle across all model years and trims. Instead, it typically comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) as the standard drivetrain configuration. However, certain trim levels, particularly those equipped with the V6 engine, offer an available AWD system that can be engaged when needed, rather than being constantly active.
For the 2020 and newer Highlander models, Toyota introduced a new AWD system that can be optionally added to certain gas-powered trims. This system is not full-time but operates on-demand, meaning it primarily runs in front-wheel drive and automatically engages the rear wheels when extra traction is required. This design helps improve fuel efficiency while still offering enhanced grip in slippery or challenging driving conditions.
What years of the Toyota Highlander offer AWD?
Toyota introduced the option for all-wheel drive on the Highlander starting with the third generation, which began in 2014. However, availability has varied over the years depending on the trim level and engine type. For instance, the hybrid versions of the Highlander traditionally offered AWD (or electronic-based E-Four systems in newer models) on specific trims, while gas-powered models saw AWD as an optional upgrade on select versions.
From 2020 onward, Toyota reintroduced an available AWD system on non-hybrid Highlander models, expanding the drivetrain choice for drivers seeking more traction and stability. This system is available on certain gas-powered trims and works in tandem with the Dynamic Torque Control AWD technology, designed to enhance performance in adverse conditions and improve overall driving confidence.
How does the Toyota Highlander AWD system work?
The Toyota Highlander AWD system, available on select gas-powered models, uses a system known as Dynamic Torque Control AWD. This technology continuously monitors driving conditions and automatically distributes torque between the front and rear wheels when slip is detected. Normally, the vehicle operates in front-wheel drive to enhance fuel economy, switching to AWD when sensors determine a need for additional traction.
The system operates seamlessly without driver input, making it ideal for drivers who don’t want the complexity of manually selecting a drivetrain mode. It’s especially useful for inclement weather, off-road driving, or when navigating steep or uneven surfaces. Because it’s an on-demand system, it doesn’t provide constant AWD performance like some competitors, but it still offers significant improvements in handling and control over standard FWD configurations.
Which Honda Highlander trims offer AWD?
Wait, actually, this question should specify Toyota Highlander, not Honda. Clarification: Among Toyota Highlander trims, AWD availability depends on the model year and engine type. For 2020 and newer models, AWD can be added to select gas-powered trims such as the LE, XLE, and Limited, though it’s often excluded from the base L trim and certain hybrid versions. The Highlander Hybrid typically does not offer a mechanical AWD system but instead features an electric motor driving the rear wheels, referred to as “E-Four” in some international markets.
In the U.S. market, the Highlander Hybrid utilizes a front-wheel-drive hybrid system with electricallly driven front wheels, and AWD was not traditionally an option. However, starting in some global variants (like the Japanese-market Toyota Kluger), Toyota has offered an AWD version of the hybrid powertrain using a rear electric motor. While these aren’t available in U.S.-spec Highlanders, buyers should still review trim-specific configurations when selecting their vehicle.
How does AWD affect fuel economy in the Toyota Highlander?
Adding all-wheel drive to a Toyota Highlander can have an impact on fuel efficiency. The AWD system adds weight and mechanical complexity to the vehicle, which means the engine must work harder to maintain the same level of performance. As a result, gas-powered AWD-equipped Highlanders generally experience a drop of one to two miles per gallon (MPG) combined compared to their FWD counterparts.
While this decrease may vary slightly depending on the engine and the driving conditions, for many drivers, the trade-off is acceptable for the added traction and control that AWD provides. Toyota designed its Dynamic Torque Control AWD system to minimize fuel loss by running mostly in front-wheel drive under normal conditions and only engaging the rear wheels when necessary. This allows for improved efficiency while still providing the benefits of AWD when road conditions deteriorate.
Is the AWD system on the Toyota Highlander good for off-roading?
The AWD system on the Toyota Highlander is not designed for serious off-roading or extremely rugged terrain. It is primarily intended to provide improved traction in slippery conditions such as rain, snow, or light dirt roads. The system is on-demand and lacks the low-range gearing or locking differentials commonly found in dedicated off-road vehicles, which means it isn’t suitable for rock crawling or heavy-duty trail use.
However, for light off-road situations, such as driving on gravel or packed dirt trails, the AWD system can offer increased stability and grip. It’s important to remember that the Highlander is built as a family-oriented crossover SUV, not a trail-rated truck or SUV. If off-road capability is a top priority, buyers may want to look into more rugged SUVs or trucks tailored for such environments while appreciating the Highlander’s versatility in more typical driving scenarios.
Can you add AWD to a front-wheel drive Toyota Highlander after purchase?
Unfortunately, it’s not practical or cost-effective to add an AWD system to a front-wheel drive Toyota Highlander after purchase. The AWD drivetrain is built into the vehicle’s mechanical configuration at the factory, including specific components like the rear differential, driveshaft, and control systems. Retrofitting these parts would require extensive modifications, which are typically beyond the capability of most aftermarket shops and not supported by Toyota.
If you’re concerned about traction and stability, the best approach is to choose a Highlander model and trim at the time of purchase that includes AWD as either standard or optional equipment. This ensures compatibility with Toyota’s engineering and safety systems, and such configurations are road-tested for reliability. Always consult with your dealership or an authorized service center when considering a new Highlander and your AWD needs.