What is the difference between AWD and 4WD Highlander?
In the Highlander lineup, you get Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) rather than a traditional 4WD system, and there is no low‑range 4WD option on current models. AWD provides on‑demand traction to all four wheels for rain, snow, and light off‑road, while a true 4WD system uses a transfer case and low range for more demanding off‑road conditions.
Beyond the basic distinction, this article explains how Highlander’s AWD works in practice, what 4WD generally means, and how to decide which setup suits your driving needs.
How Highlander AWD works
Key characteristics of the Highlander’s AWD setup at a glance:
- Intelligent AWD (i-AWD) powers the vehicle primarily via the front wheels and can send torque to the rear axle when wheel slip is detected.
- There is no driver-operated lock or low-range gear; the system operates automatically and continuously, adjusting torque distribution as needed.
- Its design emphasizes on‑road efficiency and stability in rain, snow, and light off‑roading, rather than rugged off-road capability.
- Fuel economy and drivetrain durability are balanced by the system’s on‑demand nature, with a small impact on mpg versus a two‑wheel-drive setup.
In practice, Highlander AWD helps improve traction without requiring driver input, making daily commuting and variable weather safer while limiting the level of off‑road capability compared with traditional 4WD setups.
What 4WD means and how it differs from Highlander’s AWD
Four‑wheel drive (4WD) is a broader category that typically includes a transfer case, high/low range gear, and sometimes locking differentials. Systems are designed for more serious off‑road work and can be engaged manually or automatically, depending on the vehicle. With 4WD, drivers can deliver higher torque at low speeds and maintain traction across rough terrain, but these systems are heavier, often less fuel-efficient on paved roads, and can feel less stable on dry pavement.
Is a 4WD option available on the Highlander?
Current Highlander models sold in the United States do not offer a traditional 4WD system with a low‑range transfer case. Toyota markets the Highlander with AWD (specifically Intelligent AWD or Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD) and FWD configurations, but there is no low‑range 4WD hardware or manual lock feature in the lineup. Some people may refer to the AWD system using 4WD terminology in marketing or comparisons, but the underlying drivetrain remains AWD, not a true 4WD setup.
There are practical implications for buyers: if you anticipate needing a true 4WD with low range for rugged off-road adventures, a model such as the Toyota 4Runner would be a more appropriate fit. For most snow, rain, and light off‑roading conditions, Highlander’s AWD delivers capable traction with better efficiency and everyday usability.
Summary
The Highlander’s traction system is built around Intelligent AWD, which automatically distributes torque to the rear wheels as needed and is designed for on‑road efficiency and stability in adverse weather. A traditional 4WD system—with a transfer case, low-range gearing, and often locking diffs—is not offered on current Highlander models and is reserved for more rugged Toyota lineups. For most drivers, AWD provides ample traction for daily driving in snow or rain; for serious off‑roading, consider a vehicle specifically equipped with true 4WD.
