Is the Toyota Highlander front or rear wheel drive?

The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size crossover SUV that is primarily available in a front-wheel-drive configuration. However, some models can also be equipped with an optional all-wheel-drive system.

Front-Wheel-Drive Configuration

The base model Toyota Highlander comes standard with a front-wheel-drive drivetrain. In this setup, the engine's power is transmitted to the front wheels, which are responsible for propelling the vehicle forward. Front-wheel-drive vehicles generally offer better fuel efficiency and are more affordable compared to all-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive options.

All-Wheel-Drive Option

While the standard Highlander is front-wheel-drive, Toyota does offer an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant as an optional upgrade. The AWD system automatically distributes power to all four wheels as needed, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions, such as inclement weather or off-road situations.

Rear-Wheel-Drive Configuration

The Toyota Highlander does not come in a rear-wheel-drive configuration. Rear-wheel-drive vehicles are more commonly found in sports cars, luxury sedans, and some pickup trucks, but are not offered in the Highlander lineup.

Conclusion

In summary, the Toyota Highlander is primarily a front-wheel-drive vehicle, with an optional all-wheel-drive system available for those who require additional traction and capability. The Highlander does not offer a rear-wheel-drive variant.

Are Toyota Highlanders front or rear wheel drive?

While all trims come with Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive is available on the LE, and XLE, and Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive is offered on XSE, Limited, and Platinum trim levels. Hybrid models are available on the LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum, increasing the mpg to 36 city/ 35 highway.

What is the lawsuit against the Toyota Highlander?

Recent Toyota Highlander lawsuits allege defects in the power liftgate (2025), fuel tank capacity (2022), and door lock actuators (2024). There was also a 2021 lawsuit regarding a faulty hybrid system, a 2020 lawsuit concerning a transmission defect, and an official recall for a bumper cover issue affecting 2020-2023 models.
 
This video discusses a recall for Toyota Highlander SUVs: 19sWFAAYouTube · Oct 27, 2023
Recent lawsuits

• Power Liftgate Defect: A 2025 class action lawsuit alleges that some Highlander models have a defective power liftgate that can break and prevent the rear door from closing. 
• Fuel Tank Capacity: A 2022 lawsuit claims that 2020-2021 Highlander models have a fuel tank that cannot be filled to its advertised capacity, leaving a significant portion of the tank unusable. 
• Door Lock Actuators: A 2024 lawsuit claims a defect in the door lock actuators of multiple Toyota models, including the Highlander, can cause doors to fail to lock or unlock, creating a safety risk. 

Older lawsuits and recalls

• Hybrid System Defect: A 2021 lawsuit alleged a defect in the hybrid system, potentially similar to the one in certain Toyota RAV4 Hybrids. 
• Transmission Defect: A 2020 class action lawsuit claimed that 2017 and newer Highlander and Sienna models had a transmission defect that could cause the vehicle to surge while driving. 
• Bumper Cover Recall: Toyota initiated a recall in May 2025 for 2020-2023 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid models because the front lower bumper cover could detach during normal operation. 

Is the 2012 Toyota Highlander FWD or AWD?

A five-speed automatic and front-wheel drive are standard; all-wheel drive is optional. A Highlander Limited AWD tested by Edmunds sprinted from zero to 60 mph in just 7.5 seconds, which makes it one of the quicker crossovers on the road.

What is the most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?

Common problems reported for the Toyota Highlander include air and water leaks, particularly around roof rails and seals, and issues with the infotainment system, such as freezing or becoming unresponsive. Other frequent complaints involve premature brake rotor warping, resulting in vibrations, and, for models with the turbocharged engine, inconsistent acceleration.
 
Common problems by category
Air and water leaks 

• Leaks: Water leaks from the roof, especially in heavy rain, can accumulate inside the vehicle. 
• Wind noise: Owners report excessive wind noise coming from the cabin. 
• Seal issues: Problems with roof rail seals or other weatherstripping are a recurring theme. 

Engine and performance

• Acceleration delay: Models with the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine can experience a hesitation in acceleration followed by a sudden jump forward. 
• Oil leaks: While many modern engines can develop leaks, this is cited as a problem for some Highlander models. 
• Ignition coils: Ignition coils may fail after high mileage, leading to a check engine light. 

Brakes

• Warped rotors: Some owners report vibrations during braking, especially at highway speeds, which can be caused by warped rotors. 
• Brake wear: In some Toyota models, brakes may wear out more quickly than expected. 

Infotainment and electrical

• Infotainment issues: The touchscreen can freeze, reboot unexpectedly, or become unresponsive, affecting features like the backup camera and Bluetooth. 
• Airbag light: A faulty center airbag sensor can cause the airbag light to illuminate. 
• Air filter hose: The hose for the air filter housing can sometimes disconnect, leading to a check engine light. 

Other

• Fuel tank capacity: Some 2020 models have reported issues with the fuel tank not being able to be filled to its advertised capacity. 
• Trim peeling: In some model years, interior trim pieces or sealant strips can peel off.