Do all highlanders have all-wheel-drive?
Not exactly. Toyota Highlanders do not all come with all-wheel drive. Gasoline models typically offer front-wheel drive as the base configuration with all-wheel drive available as an option, while the Highlander Hybrid lineup is generally configured with all-wheel drive in North America.
The question matters for buyers because drivetrain choice affects upfront cost, handling in adverse weather, fuel economy, and maintenance. This article breaks down how the Highlander’s drivetrain options are distributed across gas and hybrid models, and how regional differences can influence availability.
Gasoline Highlander: drivetrain options
In most markets, the gas-powered Highlander is offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The base trims commonly ship with FWD, while AWD can be selected as an option across several trims. Here is a typical breakdown by trim level in North America:
- L: FWD standard; AWD available as an option
- LE: FWD standard; AWD available as an option
- XLE: FWD or AWD
- Limited: FWD or AWD
- Platinum: FWD or AWD
Availability and exact configurations can vary by model year and market, so buyers should verify the drivetrain on the specific vehicle they’re considering.
Highlander Hybrid: all-wheel drive is the norm
The Highlander Hybrid lineup is generally offered with all-wheel drive as a standard configuration in the United States and Canada, with few or no FWD-only hybrid options in recent years. This reflects Toyota’s design choice to pair hybrid efficiency with AWD traction in the midsize SUV segment. Typical Hybrid trims in North America include AWD as standard across the lineup:
- Hybrid LE: AWD standard
- Hybrid XLE: AWD standard
- Hybrid Limited: AWD standard
- Hybrid Platinum: AWD standard
As with the gasoline models, regional availability can differ. Some markets may offer variations in drivetrain configurations or limited-edition packages.
Regional variations and practical considerations
Drivetrain offerings vary by country, model year, and local market specifications. In colder climates, AWD is often preferred for improved traction, while in milder climates, FWD can offer lower upfront costs and slightly better fuel economy. Prospective buyers should check the exact drivetrain listed for their preferred model year and region.
Why this matters for buyers
Choosing between FWD and AWD affects purchase price, fuel economy, insurance costs, and maintenance complexity. If you frequently drive in snow, ice, or heavy rain, AWD provides added confidence; otherwise, a FWD configuration can be more economical and sufficient for normal conditions.
Summary
No, not every Highlander is equipped with all-wheel drive. Gasoline Highlanders typically offer FWD as the baseline with AWD available as an option across multiple trims. Highlander Hybrids are generally equipped with AWD as standard in North America, with limited or no FWD-only hybrid options. Always confirm the exact drivetrain on the specific vehicle and model year you’re considering, as configurations can vary by region and year.
Which Toyotas are AWD?
Many Toyota models are available with all-wheel drive (AWD), including SUVs like the RAV4, Highlander, 4Runner, Sequoia, and Corolla Cross. Sedan and hybrid options with AWD include the Camry, Corolla, and Prius. Trucks like the Tacoma and Tundra are available with 4WD, which is different from AWD but provides similar capabilities for slippery conditions.
SUVs and Crossovers
- RAV4 (including Hybrid and RAV4 Prime)
- Highlander (including Hybrid and Grand Highlander Hybrid)
- 4Runner
- Sequoia
- Corolla Cross
- Venza
- Land Cruiser
Sedans
Camry, Corolla (including the hybrid), and Crown (comes standard with AWD).
Trucks
Tacoma (available with 4WD) and Tundra (available with 4WD).
Hybrid and Electric
Prius (available with AWD), RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime, Highlander Hybrid, Corolla Hybrid, and Sienna (available with AWD).
Other considerations
- AWD is generally for improved traction on slippery roads, while 4WD is typically for off-road conditions.
- The availability of AWD can depend on the specific trim level, model year, and region.
- Some models like the 2025 Camry and GR Corolla have advanced AWD systems geared for enhanced performance.
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.
What is the difference between 4WD and AWD Highlander?
Four-Wheel Drive
4WD is designed for off-road use whereas AWD is for paved roads and highways. Like AWD, 4WD is not always on because it is not really designed for the pavement. To use the 4WD function, it has to be engaged manually through a lever, switch, or button. Typically, 4WD vehicles are made for off-road use.
Are all highlanders all-wheel drive?
All Highlander Hybrids are all-wheel drive, and the EPA has rated the hybrid at 8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg‑imp (27 mpg‑US) for the city and 9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg‑imp (25 mpg‑US) for the highway, same as the previous model.
