[mr2turbo18]

Hello,

My wife is planning on getting a 2006 base V6 and I'm wondering if the AWD is worth the extra cost? I couldn't find anything 0-60 wise to compare the two(except for the Hybrid #'s). I live in Georgia so I won't be fighting snow at all. Is the AWD worth the upfront cost and extra gas cost? If it improves the 0-60 by a half a second over the 4x2 then I'd think it would be worth it. Does the FWD version have trouble containing the power of the V6(I have that problem now on my SRT)?


Thanks in advance!


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--2004 SRT-4

 

[djd1atwfu]

I don't have an SRT-4 to compare with, but we just purchased a base 2006 V6 2WD and faced the same decision you have. We simply decided that for the amount of snow and ice we get in NC (very little) we wanted to save the $2000 and get a 2wd. There is very little torque steer, although I guess if you completely floor the V6 you might get some. The traction control works just fine, and I like the idea of the snow mode, although we haven't tried it yet--no snow.

We are averaging 20-21 mpg with around 1300 miles on the car, and I figured the mileage would be 1-2 mpg less if we had gone with the AWD. I know some other folks who got the AWD and like it, but I've had no trouble driving in up to 8 inches of snow with just front wheel drive, so I think the AWD was wholly unnecessary for us.

If you want to go offroading, the Highlander is definitely not the car you want anyway.

So far we are very pleased with the car. Best of luck in your decision!

 

[98CamryLE]

I'd get the 2WD. 4WD will actually slow your 0-60 time because of the extra weight involved in the 4WD system.

The only benefit for 4WD for someone who lives in a place where there is no snow would be the possible added traction in heavy rain, and it will be worth more when you trade it in.

 

[toyoonly]

I live in colorado, and I think that the AWD is unnecessary. I have used it before, however I have a 92 Camry that has really never had any problems in the snow. If you are buying new, I wouldnt get it. Its just an extra 2000, and worse MPG.

 

[BOWTIE 3]

FWD or AWD?

Hello,

My wife is planning on getting a 2006 base V6 and I'm wondering if the AWD is worth the extra cost? I couldn't find anything 0-60 wise to compare the two(except for the Hybrid #'s). I live in Georgia so I won't be fighting snow at all. Is the AWD worth the upfront cost and extra gas cost? If it improves the 0-60 by a half a second over the 4x2 then I'd think it would be worth it. Does the FWD version have trouble containing the power of the V6(I have that problem now on my SRT)?


Thanks in advance!


---------------------------------------------------------------------
--2004 SRT-4[/quote

The Lexus RX300-RX330 has the same transmission as the Highlander. The AWD transmissions have a poor reliabilty history when compared the FWD vehicles. The Lexus forums are loaded with unhappy AWD owners who have paid $4000-$6000 for a replacement transmission. Get the FWD Highlander! It's quicker, get's better fuel mileage, requires less maintenance, AND lasts longer.