Which Toyota SUV is the best in snow?

In snowy conditions, the top Toyota option is usually the 4Runner when equipped with capable four‑wheel drive and winter tires; for tougher, deeper snow, the Land Cruiser/LC300 and Sequoia offer superior traction and stability. For everyday winter driving, AWD crossovers like the RAV4, Highlander, and Grand Highlander can handle typical snow well with proper tires.

Snow performance hinges on more than horsepower. Drivetrain configuration (4WD with low range vs. AWD), traction technology, ground clearance, and, crucially, the tires you mount all work together to determine how well a vehicle grips, climbs, and stops on slick surfaces. This article surveys the best Toyota SUVs for snow, explains the features that matter, and offers practical guidance for choosing and using them in winter weather.

Top Toyota SUVs for Snow

Here are the Toyota models most frequently cited for strong snow performance, focusing on drivetrain capability and traction tech rather than just speed.

• Toyota 4Runner (TRD Off‑Road / TRD Pro): 4WD with a two‑speed transfer case and available rear locking differential, designed to handle deep snow and off‑road terrain.


• Toyota Sequoia (2023+): A full‑size SUV with robust 4WD capability and options for a locking differential, well suited to heavy snow conditions.


• Toyota Grand Highlander / Highlander AWD: All‑wheel drive variants with traction features and selectable modes that help in light to moderate snow on urban and rural roads.


• Toyota Land Cruiser / LC300 (where available): Advanced 4WD systems and off‑road tech tuned for extreme snow and adverse terrain.


• Toyota RAV4 AWD (with winter tires): A compact option that delivers solid snow performance in everyday conditions when paired with proper winter tires.

In practical terms, the 4Runner and Sequoia tend to lead in deeper or more technical snow scenarios, while the Highlander/Grand Highlander and RAV4 excel for regular winter commuting with the right rubber and care.

Key features that boost snow performance

To maximize snow capability, buyers should look for drivetrain setups and traction tools that help grip slick surfaces and manage power delivery.

1. Two‑speed transfer case or a robust AWD system that can distribute power to wheels with the most grip.


2. Locking or electronically controlled rear (and/or center) differential to improve traction when one wheel slips.


3. Good ground clearance to prevent snow buildup from hindering progress and to avoid getting high‑centred.


4. Drive modes designed for slippery surfaces (such as Snow) and related features like multi‑terrain or hill descent controls.


5. Quality winter tires (and appropriate tire pressures) to maximize grip on snow and ice, regardless of drivetrain.


6. Reliable brakes and stability control tuned for low‑traction conditions to maintain control.

These features, when combined with the right tires, typically deliver the best snow performance across Toyota’s SUV lineup.

Regional availability and tire choice

Some high‑end 4WD systems and trims are not offered in every market. In colder regions with frequent heavy snowfall, shoppers should prioritize models with a transfer case, locking diffs, and strong traction control, then pair the vehicle with high‑quality winter tires for best results.

Summary

When it comes to snow, the Toyota SUV lineup offers a range from rugged, off‑road‑ready models to capable everyday crossovers. The 4Runner and Sequoia are typically the strongest performers in deep or challenging snow thanks to their traditional 4WD setups and off‑road tech. For extreme winter conditions, the Land Cruiser/LC300 family provides top‑tier capability, while the Grand Highlander, Highlander, and RAV4 offer solid snow performance with proper winter tires for daily driving. Your best choice depends on climate, how much snow you regularly encounter, and your willingness to invest in appropriate tires and accessories.

Is 4x4 or AWD better for snow?

For most drivers, AWD is better for daily driving in snow on plowed roads because it operates automatically and seamlessly to improve traction. 4WD is better for extreme conditions like deep, unplowed snow, rough terrain, or steep, icy hills, as it provides more power and control at lower speeds. 
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

• Best for: Paved roads with occasional snow and ice, city and suburban driving, and everyday commuting. 
• How it works: It automatically sends power to all four wheels as needed, providing enhanced traction and handling without driver intervention. 
• Pros: Seamless and automatic, better fuel efficiency, and works well in a variety of conditions. 

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

• Best for: Deep snow, unpaved roads, steep hills, and off-roading. 
• How it works: It typically requires a driver to manually engage, sending power to all four wheels for maximum traction at lower speeds. Some systems also have a low-range gear for heavy-duty tasks. 
• Pros: Provides brute force and maximum traction for extreme conditions. 
• Cons: Less efficient, and can be detrimental to handling on dry pavement, as it can cause binding if not disengaged. 

Which one should you choose?

• Choose AWD if: You primarily drive on roads that are regularly cleared of snow.
• Choose 4WD if: You frequently drive in rural areas, experience very heavy snowfall, or need to navigate rough terrain. 

Important considerations

• Winter tires are non-negotiable: Regardless of whether you have AWD or 4WD, a good set of winter or snow tires is the single most important factor for safe winter driving. 
• AWD is not four-wheel-drive: Many modern AWD systems have a center differential, allowing the front and rear wheels to turn at different speeds, which is beneficial for cornering on dry or wet roads. 
• 4WD is for low-speed, high-traction situations: Avoid driving in 4WD on dry or paved roads, as it can damage the drivetrain. 

Which Toyota is best in snow?

The best Toyota for snow depends on your needs, but top contenders include the RAV4 for its balanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability and higher ground clearance, the Highlander for its advanced traction and larger size, and the 4Runner for its ruggedness and off-road features like locking differentials. Other strong options include the Tacoma and Tundra trucks, or even an AWD Camry for a sedan choice.
 
Top Toyota models for snow

• Toyota RAV4: A versatile and popular choice due to its available AWD, higher ground clearance, and winter-focused driving modes. It offers a good balance of fuel efficiency and capability. 
• Toyota Highlander: A capable mid-size SUV that comes with advanced features like Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive and selectable drive modes to handle slippery conditions. It's a solid option for families or those who need more space. 
• Toyota 4Runner: An extremely rugged SUV with excellent off-road capabilities that translate well to snow. It features 4WD, a locking center differential, and high ground clearance for deep snow. 
• Toyota Trucks (Tacoma and Tundra): These trucks, especially in TRD trims, are designed to handle challenging conditions. They offer high ground clearance, powerful drivetrains, and features like multi-terrain systems. 
• Other models:
  • Toyota Camry: Available with all-wheel drive for a capable sedan option in snowy environments. 
  • Toyota Sienna: The minivan comes with a Snow mode for enhanced grip on slippery roads. 
  • Toyota Grand Highlander: A larger, more spacious version of the Highlander that is also well-equipped for winter. 

Key features to look for

• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): This is crucial for maximizing traction on snowy and icy roads, and it's available on many Toyota models. 
• Higher Ground Clearance: This prevents the vehicle from getting stuck in deeper snow and is a major advantage of SUVs and trucks. 
• Drive Modes: Features like the RAV4's Multi-Terrain Select system or the Highlander's selectable modes offer specific settings to optimize performance for conditions like snow. 
• Safety and Driver-Assist Technology: Advanced systems like Toyota's Safety Sense™ provide helpful features like pre-collision warning and lane departure alert to increase confidence while driving in poor conditions. 

Which Toyota SUV has the least amount of problems?

Most Reliable Toyota SUVs

• Toyota RAV4. The Toyota RAV4 is the highest rated Toyota SUV for reliability according to RepairPal, a website that specializes in vehicle reliability facts.
• Toyota 4Runner.
• Toyota Venza.
• Find the Most Reliable SUV for You in Mt.

Which is better in snow RAV4 or Highlander?

Both the Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Highlander come with standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive - the latter is the better choice for conquering the snowy highways of the region or the muddy, or sometimes non-existent, roadways around Newburgh or Scotchtown.