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Is a Toyota Highlander good for snow?

The Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV that is generally considered a good choice for driving in snowy conditions. With its all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability, ample ground clearance, and advanced safety features, the Highlander can handle most winter weather situations effectively.


Driving the Highlander in Snow


The Toyota Highlander's AWD system is designed to provide excellent traction and stability on slippery, snow-covered roads. The system automatically distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, helping to prevent wheel spin and maintain control. Additionally, the Highlander's generous ground clearance of 8 inches or more allows it to navigate through deeper snow without getting stuck.


Many Highlander models also come equipped with advanced driver-assistance technologies, such as lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. These features can be particularly helpful in poor winter driving conditions, providing an extra layer of safety and confidence for the driver.p>

Preparing the Highlander for Winter Driving



  • Install winter tires: Equipping the Highlander with a set of high-quality winter tires can significantly improve its snow-driving capabilities. Winter tires are designed with specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns to provide better grip and traction on snow and ice.

  • Check the battery and charging system: Ensure the Highlander's battery is in good condition and the charging system is functioning properly to prevent issues starting the vehicle in cold weather.

  • Keep the fuel tank full: Maintaining a full fuel tank can help prevent the fuel line from freezing in extremely cold temperatures.

  • Pack emergency supplies: It's a good idea to keep a winter emergency kit in the Highlander, including items like a snow brush/scraper, jumper cables, a flashlight, and warm clothing.


By following these tips and taking advantage of the Highlander's inherent winter-driving capabilities, you can feel confident and prepared to tackle snowy conditions in this capable SUV.

Is the Toyota Highlander a full-time AWD?


The Highlander came standard with front-wheel drive and offered all-wheel drive (50:50 front:rear fixed torque split).



How to drive a Highlander in snow?


System operation Press the snow mode switch. When the switch is pressed, the system switches to snow mode and the snow mode indicator illuminates on the multi-information display. When the switch is pressed again, the snow mode indicator turns off.



Is the Toyota Highlander good in the snow?


The Highlander is okay in moderate snow, but definitely not so much in continuous heavy snow, this vehicle is not an off road vehicle, especially since they changed the engine to a 4 liter turbo. I would definitely without a doubt lean towards the Pilot Trailsport.



What is AWD lock on Toyota Highlander?


The AWD Lock Mode would help if you only had to use this feature when driving slower than 25 miles per hour. With all-wheel drive, the power is delivered to each wheel to prevent the car from slipping and sliding. It also works well for getting the car out of the mud or on different types of terrain.



What does snow mode do on a Toyota?


Snow mode is a driving mode that alters a vehicle's driving dynamics to achieve better control and grip. It enables the transmission to start in second gear and reduce wheel spin. It also minimizes the engine's power and accelerator response to prevent skidding.



Which Toyota is best in snow and ice?


Toyota Trucks for Ice & Snow
That's because new Tundra and Tacoma 4x4 options rank among the top-rated trucks for ice and snow. From tough winter mornings at the jobsite to cold nights out on the road, 2023 Toyota Tundra and Tacoma trucks offer the capabilities you need to be at your best regardless of the conditions.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.