Are all Toyota Highlander AWD?
Not a universal yes. The Toyota Highlander is offered with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The gas-powered models can be either FWD or AWD depending on trim and options, while the Highlander Hybrid lineup is equipped with AWD as standard in recent years.
Drive configurations by powertrain
Below is a breakdown of how drive configurations are typically offered across the Highlander lineup, based on the latest model years.
Gasoline-only Highlander
Key drive options for the gasoline Highlander center on balancing cost, efficiency, and traction. The base configuration is usually FWD, with AWD available on most trims as an upgrade or standard on specific packages.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) – standard on the base gas trims
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) – available on most trims as an upgrade or standard on higher trims
In practice, choosing AWD provides better traction in snow and rain, while sticking with FWD helps maximize fuel economy and lower upfront cost.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Hybrid version follows a different pattern. In current generations, every Highlander Hybrid trim ships with AWD (AWD-e) as standard, and a front-wheel-drive Hybrid configuration is not offered in the U.S. lineup.
Key drive options for the Hybrid focus on standardized all-wheel drive and electric-boosted traction. The list below highlights the core points:
- All Highlander Hybrid trims include AWD (AWD-e)
- No FWD option for Highlander Hybrid in recent years
- Hybrid AWD uses electric motors to assist and engage the rear axle for traction
In short, if you are after fuel efficiency with traction, the Hybrid already includes AWD as part of its standard setup.
Summary
The Toyota Highlander is not exclusively an AWD vehicle. Gas-powered Highlanders are offered with FWD as the baseline and AWD as an option or standard on higher trims, while the Highlander Hybrid lineup comes with AWD by default in the current model years. When shopping, always verify the drivetrain on the specific model year and trim you’re considering, as configurations can vary by market and year.
Do highlanders come in FWD?
Toyota is offering far fewer configurations of the Highlander for 2026. The mid-size three-row SUV now comes standard with all-wheel drive on all models, and the base LE trim is no more. That means the price of entry starts at $46,765 for the XLE AWD, compared with the 2025 Highlander LE FWD trim's $41,815 base price.
Which Toyota Highlander to stay away from?
You should avoid the 2003, 2008, 2014, and 2015 model years of the Toyota Highlander due to common issues like engine problems in the 2003, and transmission glitches in the 2008 and 2015 models. Other years to be cautious with are 2009, 2010, and 2020, which had a higher number of recalls or transmission and software issues.
This video discusses common problems with Toyota Highlanders from 2020 to 2025: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Years to avoid
- 2003: Engine overheating and the possibility of needing a costly engine block swap.
- 2008: Significant issues with the braking system and a high number of recalls and complaints.
- 2009 and 2010: A high number of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning the braking system.
- 2014 and 2015: These years had early issues with transmission glitches and technology problems.
- 2020: This model year experienced some transmission and software problems.
Other considerations
- 2021: Reports of transmission failures.
- 2023: In the non-hybrid, the turbocharged engine had issues with acceleration and the infotainment system could be unreliable.
- 2024: Reports of issues with the infotainment system, a noisy engine, and hesitation.
Is the Highlander AWD always on?
Dynamic Torque-Control AWD does not adjust the power to each wheel; rather, the driveshaft is always turning on this system even if the electromagnetic coupler is disengaged.
Do all highlanders have AWD?
It is available in XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum grades. The XLE grade has standard mechanical All Wheel Drive. The XSE, Limited, and Platinum grades have Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD. All Highlander 2.4-L turbo gas powered models have a 5,000-pound towing capacity.
