Is the 3.5 Highlander a Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive?
3 Answers
3.5 Highlander is a full-time four-wheel drive. Below is a detailed introduction to the Highlander: 1. Exterior: The Highlander features a stylish and noble appearance with an elegant and imposing presence. Triangular headlights, a hexagonal angular front grille design, the integrated Toyota emblem, thick chrome accents, fog lights embedded with chrome trim, and a slightly forward-leaning front end give the entire front fascia a fashionable and three-dimensional look. The robust and continuous waistline running from the front to the rear, prominent wheel arches, black side skirts, and chrome door sills make the body appear solid, elongated, and dynamic. 2. Powertrain: The Highlander is equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission and a 2.7L L4 engine.
Speaking of the Toyota Highlander's 3.5-liter version, I have to mention its four-wheel drive system. This model typically uses a Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive system, rather than full-time four-wheel drive. Full-time four-wheel drive means all four wheels are constantly engaged, like in some rugged off-road vehicles, but the Highlander's design is more intelligent. In most daily driving scenarios, it operates solely on front-wheel drive, and only when the system detects wheel slippage or acceleration demand does it quickly distribute power to the rear wheels. The advantages of this approach are clear: it improves fuel efficiency by saving the energy consumption of the rear wheels on smooth roads, while ensuring safe traction in rainy or snowy conditions. Toyota has tuned this system to make the transition smooth—you can hardly feel the shift, making the drive feel very natural. In practical use, as I've experienced with similar models, it performs reliably both in city commuting and occasional suburban roads. The fuel consumption is significantly lower than that of full-time four-wheel drive, and maintenance is simpler, without the need for frequent checks on complex components. The key is to drive appropriately according to road conditions to maximize its potential.
I own a Highlander-like SUV at home, and I have some thoughts about its four-wheel drive system. The 3.5L Highlander doesn't feature full-time 4WD; instead, it uses an intelligent responsive AWD system. On dry roads, it operates in front-wheel drive mode for quiet and fuel-efficient performance. However, when encountering slippery surfaces or sharp turns, the vehicle automatically adjusts torque distribution to engage the rear wheels. This design offers a more agile driving experience without the constant heaviness associated with full-time 4WD, making long-distance driving particularly effortless. I find this system excellent for family use – whether shuttling kids or weekend getaways, it handles unexpected road conditions seamlessly without requiring driver intervention. Compared to full-time systems, this Highlander version has lower maintenance costs due to reduced drivetrain wear, and insurers favor it too with relatively affordable premiums. Remember, regular tire and sensor checks are crucial to maintain system responsiveness.
