What is the difference between Toyota AWD and 4WD?

In Toyota's lineup, all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) are engineered for different driving conditions. A concise take: AWD is typically an on-demand or full-time system that improves traction on pavement and in light off-road situations, while 4WD is a rugged, transfer-case-based setup with low-range gearing intended for serious off-road use.

This article explains how Toyota's AWD and 4WD differ, where they appear in current Toyota models, and what buyers should consider when choosing between them. It covers how each system distributes power, when they engage, and practical guidance for daily driving versus off-road adventures.

How Toyota AWD works

AWD systems in Toyota crossovers and cars are designed to improve grip in rain, snow, and light off-road use while aiming to preserve fuel economy. Most models employ electronic controls to monitor wheel slip and adjust torque distribution between front and rear axles (and, in some cases, left-right torque at the rear).

• Power is delivered to all four wheels via a center differential or an electronically controlled rear differential (an e-axle in some hybrids), allowing varying torque between front and rear wheels as needed.


• Some Toyotas use on-demand AWD: the vehicle runs primarily in front-wheel drive, and torque is automatically shifted to the rear wheels when slip is detected or extra traction is required.


• Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD (DTW AWD) is available on select models (notably the RAV4 and Highlander lines) to split torque between the left and right rear wheels, improving handling and stability in corners.


• AWD typically does not include a low-range gear; it is optimized for on-road performance and light off-road traction, not for rock crawling or deep mud.


• It works in concert with vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes to maximize grip and maintain controllability in poor weather.


• For most daily driving, AWD can offer noticeable safety benefits during rain, snow, and slick road surfaces without requiring extra driver input.

Conclusion: In everyday use, Toyota AWD provides better traction and confidence in adverse conditions while minimizing fuel penalties, but it is not a substitute for a purpose-built off-road drivetrain.

How Toyota 4WD works

4WD in Toyota's lineup is designed for serious off-road driving and challenging terrain. It uses a transfer case, selectable high and low range, and sometimes locking differentials to maximize traction in mud, sand, and rock. Some systems are part-time and require engagement only in rough conditions; others are full-time with a center differential to accommodate highway speeds.

• Transfer-case based with selectable 4H/4L settings (and sometimes 2H in certain trucks) allowing the driver to choose high-range or low-range gearing depending on conditions.


• Part-time 4WD systems typically do not have a center differential; using 4WD on dry pavement can create driveline binding unless the system is designed for on-road use.


• Low-range gearing (4L) provides increased torque and crawl speed for rough terrain, steep descents, and obstacle negotiation.


• Locking differentials (front and/or rear) can be engaged to maximize traction when wheels have uneven grip, such as on rocks or loose soil.


• Typically found on body-on-frame SUVs and trucks like the 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra, Sequoia, and Land Cruiser; these vehicles are engineered to withstand rugged off-road use.


• Overall, 4WD systems tend to be heavier, more robustly built, and consume more fuel, reflecting their off-road orientation.

Conclusion: If your needs include serious off-road capability, low-range gearing, and the option to lock differentials, a 4WD Toyota model is the appropriate choice.

Toyota models: where AWD and 4WD appear

Toyota deploys AWD primarily in its crossovers, sedans, and minivans, while 4WD is reserved for the brand's more rugged trucks and off-road-oriented SUVs. The exact availability can vary by model year and market, so checking the current specs is advised.

AWD in cars, crossovers, and minivans

Examples and typical configurations include:

• RAV4: offers AWD with Dynamic Torque Vectoring, which varies torque to the rear wheels to improve cornering grip; many trims use an electronic on-demand system.


• Highlander and Sienna: AWD options to improve traction in snow and rain; hybrid variants often use e-AWD configurations that integrate with the hybrid system.


• Camry: AWD is available on select trims, primarily for enhanced wet-weather and snow handling.


• Other Toyota models such as the Venza (where available) also offer AWD variants.

Conclusion: For daily commuting in mixed weather or light off-road trips, AWD-equipped Toyotas provide improved stability and traction with minimal driver input.

4WD in trucks and off-road SUVs

Examples and typical configurations include:

• 4Runner: Traditionally equipped with a part-time 4WD system and a high/low-range transfer case on many trims, designed for off-road driving.


• Land Cruiser and Sequoia: Larger, body-on-frame SUVs with full-time or selectable 4WD setups, often including a two-speed transfer case and, in some trims, locking differentials for extreme terrain.


• Tacoma and Tundra: Pickup trucks with 4WD including high/low range and variant locking options for challenging conditions.

Conclusion: 4WD Toyotas are built for serious off-road use, with low-range gearing and locking capabilities that aid in climbing, crawling, and traversing rough terrain.

Summary

In short, Toyota AWD and 4WD cater to different driving needs. AWD improves on-road traction and light off-road capability with automatic torque distribution and often advanced electronic controls, while 4WD provides true off-road versatility with low-range gearing, transfer-case control, and, on some models, locking differentials. Choose AWD for weather- and light-terrain driving and 4WD for dedicated off-road adventures or extreme conditions. Always verify the specific drivetrain option for your model year and market.

Is Toyota AWD the same as 4WD?

The biggest difference between AWD and 4WD models is that not only are 4WD systems capable of sending power to the front and rear axles – they're also capable of directing a precise amount of power between the right and left wheels.

Is AWD or 4WD better for snow?

For most drivers, AWD is better for snow because it automatically adjusts power to the wheels for better traction on snowy or icy roads, making it convenient for daily driving. However, 4WD is better for deep, unplowed snow or extreme conditions due to its ruggedness and low-range gearing for maximum traction at lower speeds. For both systems, using good winter tires is the most critical factor for winter driving safety. 
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

• Best for: Regular driving on roads that get light to moderate snow and ice. 
• How it works: It's typically a full-time system that automatically sends power to the wheels with the most grip without driver input. 
• Pros: Offers enhanced traction, handling, and fuel efficiency for everyday use. 
• Cons: Less suitable for extreme off-roading or very deep snow compared to 4WD. 

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

• Best for: Heavy, unplowed snow, rough terrain, and off-roading. 
• How it works: It's often a part-time system that the driver must manually engage. It typically has a low-range gear for maximum torque at low speeds. 
• Pros: Provides superior, robust traction for the most challenging conditions and often has higher ground clearance. 
• Cons: Less fuel-efficient and can cause driveline binding or damage if used on dry, paved roads, requiring more driver management. 

The importance of winter tires

• Neither AWD nor 4WD is a substitute for good winter tires.
• Proper snow or winter tires are the single most important factor for grip and safety in snowy and icy conditions. 

What is the disadvantage of AWD?

The main disadvantages of all-wheel drive (AWD) are higher costs, including a more expensive purchase price and increased maintenance, poorer fuel efficiency, and more complex systems that can be costly to repair. Additionally, AWD systems have a higher potential for increased tire wear and may provide a false sense of security that can lead drivers to overestimate their vehicle's capabilities in bad weather, especially with braking. 
You can watch this video to learn about the disadvantages of all-wheel drive, including higher costs and maintenance: 59sScotty KilmerYouTube · Mar 5, 2020
Cost

• Higher purchase price: Vehicles with AWD are often more expensive to buy than their two-wheel drive counterparts. 
• Increased maintenance and repair costs: AWD systems have more complex components, which can lead to higher maintenance and repair bills. 
• More expensive tires: AWD can lead to more even wear on all four tires, but it also means tires need to be replaced more frequently, and tire rotation is more critical. 

Performance and efficiency

• Lower fuel economy: The added weight and mechanical components of an AWD system require more energy to operate, resulting in lower fuel efficiency compared to FWD or RWD vehicles. 
• Increased stopping distance: The extra weight of an AWD system can increase the distance it takes to stop, even though it helps with traction when accelerating. 
• Limited off-road capability: Most AWD systems are not designed for heavy off-roading and are less robust than true four-wheel drive systems. 

Other drawbacks

• Less interior space: The additional components can take up valuable space in the cabin or cargo area. 
• Overconfidence: Drivers may feel a false sense of security in poor conditions, believing AWD can overcome the laws of physics, which can lead to dangerous situations. 
• More components to fail: A more complex system means there are more parts that could potentially fail over time. 

Which is better, 4WD or AWD?

Neither 4WD nor AWD is universally better; the best choice depends on your needs. AWD is better for everyday driving on paved roads and in light-snow conditions, as it automatically engages for improved traction without driver input. 4WD is superior for off-roading and extreme conditions, such as deep snow, mud, or sand, because it can be manually locked for maximum grip and often includes a low-range gear for more torque. 
This video explains the difference between AWD and 4WD: 56sWonder WorldYouTube · Apr 17, 2018
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

• Best for: On-road driving in varied weather conditions (rain, light snow, ice). 
• How it works: It's a full-time system that uses sensors to automatically distribute power to all four wheels when slippage is detected. 
• Pros:
  • No driver input is needed; it's always active or engages automatically. 
  • Provides better traction and handling on paved roads. 
• Cons:
  • Less capable for serious off-roading or extreme conditions. 

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

• Best for: Off-roading, rough terrain, and deep snow or mud. 
• How it works: It's a part-time system that must be engaged by the driver. It also often includes a low-range gear for extra torque and a locking transfer case that mechanically links the front and rear axles for 50/50 power distribution. 
• Pros:
  • Provides superior grip and control in off-road situations. 
  • Better for heavy-duty tasks and towing. 
• Cons:
  • Can cause drivetrain binding and is not meant for use on dry pavement, especially during turns. 
  • Requires manual engagement and disengagement. 

This video explains the basics of AWD and 4WD: 56sCarMaxYouTube · Dec 16, 2022