Is the 2016 Toyota Highlander FWD or RWD?
The 2016 Toyota Highlander is offered with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD); there is no traditional rear-wheel-drive (RWD) option.
Drivetrain options in 2016
Overview of the available configurations for the gas-powered Highlander lineup, showing how the car is typically powered depending on trim and option packages.
- Front-wheel drive (FWD): Available on the base gas model and several trims, aimed at efficiency and passenger-focused utility.
- All-wheel drive (AWD): Optional or standard on higher trims, providing enhanced traction in rain, snow, and slippery conditions.
In everyday terms, AWD adds security in bad weather but usually costs more and can slightly reduce fuel economy compared with FWD.
What about the Highlander Hybrid?
The Highlander Hybrid is also part of the lineup and uses electric motors alongside the gasoline engine; AWD is commonly used in the hybrid configuration, and there is no RWD option in the hybrid as well.
Takeaways for shoppers
Choose AWD if you regularly drive in challenging weather or on less-than-ideal roads. Choose FWD if you mostly drive on dry pavement, want lower upfront cost, and have good weather most of the year. A pure RWD option does not exist for the 2016 Highlander.
Summary
In short, the 2016 Toyota Highlander is offered as FWD or AWD, with no RWD option. This applies to both the gasoline version and the Highlander Hybrid variant for that model year.
