Which Toyotas come in 4 wheel drive?
Most Toyota four-wheel-drive capability is found in the brand’s trucks and large SUVs: 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra, Sequoia, and LC300/Land Cruiser. Other models primarily offer all-wheel drive (AWD) rather than a traditional 4WD system.
In today’s lineup, Toyota stretches its 4WD offerings across body-on-frame SUVs and pickups designed for off-road capability, while many unibody crossovers use AWD for on-road traction. Here is a breakdown of where 4WD is available, how it’s configured, and what buyers should expect from different models.
Core 4WD Toyota Trucks and Large SUVs
The following sections cover Toyota’s genuine four-wheel-drive systems in its trucks and larger SUVs. Each model can use a 2-speed transfer case or a similar setup that provides low-range gearing for serious off-road use.
Tacoma
The Tacoma offers 4WD with a two-speed transfer case on certain trims, providing low-range gearing for off-road driving. 4x4 is commonly paired with trims like SR5, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro.
- Tacoma: 4x4 capability available on multiple trims; two-speed transfer case.
In short, if you want true off-road traction in a mid-size pickup, the Tacoma’s 4WD options are the primary choice in Toyota’s midsize truck lineup.
Tundra
- Tundra: 4x4 widely available; two-speed transfer case; TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims emphasize off-road capability.
For buyers seeking true 4WD capability in a full-size pickup, the Tundra’s setup is Toyota’s dedicated option in this segment.
4Runner
The 4Runner is built around a traditional body-on-frame architecture with standard 4WD, including a low-range transfer case on most trims. It’s one of Toyota’s most recognized off-road vehicles.
- 4Runner: Standard 4x4 across most trims with a low-range option for challenging terrain.
In practical terms, the 4Runner is Toyota’s most off-road-focused SUV that consistently relies on a true 4WD system.
Sequoia
- Sequoia: 4x4 available; two-speed transfer case on applicable trims; strong towing and off-road capability.
For buyers needing a large SUV with serious 4WD capability, Sequoia remains a key option in Toyota’s lineup.
Land Cruiser / LC300
- LC300 (Land Cruiser): 4WD standard/available with a two-speed transfer case and multiple terrain modes.
For long-standing reliability and traditional 4WD strengths in a flagship SUV, LC300 continues the Land Cruiser lineage with modern technology.
Crossovers and Smaller SUVs: AWD Is Common, Not 4WD
Among Toyota’s car-based crossovers and minivans, AWD is the typical setup for traction and efficiency. These models do not use a low-range 4WD system, though some offer rugged-drive presets or off-road gearing within an AWD framework.
RAV4
The RAV4 is widely available with all-wheel drive, but it does not feature a traditional 4WD system with a low-range transfer case. AWD on the RAV4 is designed for on-road grip and light off-road use.
- RAV4: AWD available (varies by trim); no low-range 4WD.
For buyers who want Toyota capability with SUV practicality, the RAV4’s AWD is a strong option, though it isn’t a true off-road 4WD system.
Highlander
The Highlander offers AWD on many trims as a traction solution for family SUVs. Like the RAV4, these AWD systems are not low-range 4WD.
- Highlander: AWD frequently available; designed for weather and rain/ice traction rather than off-road crawling.
Highlander’s AWD setup makes it versatile for daily driving with added stability in adverse conditions.
Corolla Cross and Other Crossovers
- Corolla Cross: AWD option available; not a traditional 4WD with low-range.
Crossovers with AWD provide enhanced traction without the need for the rugged components found in 4WD trucks and large SUVs.
Summary
If you’re after genuine four-wheel drive for off-road adventures or heavy-duty use, focus on Toyota’s trucks and large SUVs: Tacoma, Tundra, 4Runner, Sequoia, and LC300/Land Cruiser. For everyday driving with improved traction in bad weather, Toyota’s crossovers and minivans generally use AWD rather than a traditional 4WD system.
