FWD Vs. AWD Toyota RAV4: Performance, Efficiency, & Traction Compared

I have encountered many people who need assistance with getting FWD or AWD. Although the Toyota Rav4 has different trim levels, people mostly consider FWD and AWD when planning to buy one.

Below, we provide a detailed guide for comparing Rav4 FWD and AWD, so let’s get to it without wasting time.

What is FWD, and How Does it Work:

Well, front-wheel drive, also known as FWD, is a system that powers up or delivers power only to the front wheels. The rear wheels follow the front wheels as they steer and pull the vehicle forward. This system layout is common to compact SUVs, including the base models of the Toyota RAV4.

What is AWD, and How Does it Work:

All-wheel drive, also known as AWD, is a system that delivers power to all four wheels simultaneously, either partially or fully. Toyota’s RAV4 AWD models have a feature that allows the AWD system to automatically adjust the power distribution between the wheels depending on the driving condition.

Check out the video below to see how the AWD Toyota RAV4 powers through snow, delivering superior grip and control in slippery conditions.

Differences Between Toyota RAV4 FWD Vs. AWD:

There are key differences between front-wheel driving and all-wheel driving. We’ve made a list of those comparisons, so let’s get to it.

Difference in Interior:

The interior of the Toyota RAV4 remains the same whether you choose the FWD or AWD model. Both offer almost similar layouts, materials, and features like seating capacity, infotainment systems, and storage areas for your stuff. However, the AWD system comes with a few extra settings and control modes, such as Multi-Terrain Select, AWD Lock Button, Downhill Assist Control (DAC), and Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD on the dashboard to control the AWD system.

Rav4 FWD Vs. AWD Interior Dimensions Table

Difference in Exterior:

From an exterior perspective, the FWD and AWD RAV4 models are nearly identical in design, with the same overall shape, body lines, and color. The color options for both include:

• Midnight Black
• Magnetic Gray Metallic
• Ruby Flare Pearl
• Blizzard Pearl
• Silver Sky Metallic
• Blueprint
• Cavalry Blue
• Lunar Rock
• Midnight Black, etc.

Other than that, the AWD has slightly different higher ground clearance (The AWD Toyota RAV4 has a ground clearance of 8.4 inches, compared to 8.0 inches for the FWD model) and roof rails, while some also have a moonroof.

Rav4 FWD Vs. AWD Exterior Dimensions Table:

Engine Specification:

Both FWD and AWD have the same engine options: a standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. They have the same features, but the AWD system adds an extra component that distributes this power to four wheels instead of two. The engine performance remains the same in both trims, but AWD models may experience a drop in fuel efficiency due to extra power usage.

Engine Specs Table for Both FWD & AWD

Performance on Different Terrains:

Due to the front-wheel control, the FWD performs well on dry, paved roads but struggles on slippery, uneven roads. I won’t recommend FWD if you mostly drive on rough roads and paths. The AWD is doing great on rough terrain, and it will give you better control and stability than the FWD.

Handling in Wet and Snowy Weather:

Because of its all-wheel power, AWD offers a clear advantage in snowy and wet conditions. It automatically adjusts the power distribution to help the wheel spin, giving you better control when the road is slippery or has ice on it. While, according to my personal experience, FWD is good and very durable on roads, it didn’t impress me on rough terrain.

Source.

Fuel Economy:

One of the most significant differences between FWD and AWD is Fuel Economy. FWD models in the RAV4 generally offer better gas mileage due to their lighter weight and less power usage only on the front wheels. AWD systems use more fuel and have less fuel economy because they use more power because they use all of their wheels, which consume more energy than FWD.

Cost:

For cost, we provide the actual price of both Rav4 AWD and FWD in the chart below.

Gas Mileage:

The gas mileage of both rav4 FWD and AWD is almost the same. The gas mileage of the RAV4 FWD is about 27 MPG in the city and 35 PMG on open highways. At the same time, the RAV4 AWD has 24 MPG in the city while 33 on the highway.

Pros and Cons of RAV4 FWD Vs. AWD:

Below, we list some common advantages and disadvantages of rav4 AWD vs FWD.

Now it is time to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of AWD:

How to choose the Right Trim:

If you’re having trouble deciding between Rav4 FWD and AWD, we have a couple of suggestions.

Urban Commuters:

If you are an urban commuter, meaning you spend most of your day driving your car in the city, I suggest getting an FWD because it is generally the most stylish option out there. It offers style with better fuel efficiency for your city drives.

Adventurous Driver:

This is for those who enjoy weekend trips to the mountains, live in snowy climates, or constantly drive on unpaved roads. I recommend you go with AWD because it provides peace of mind and can give you the best in every condition.

Budget Considerations:

If you are a bit tight on budget and don’t want to spend too much on a car, then I recommend going with FWD because it is the more cost-effective choice, both in terms of purchase price and long-term maintenance. On the other hand, AWD systems are more expensive because of their features.

Conclusion:

Choosing between FWD and AWD for your Toyota RAV4 depends mainly on your driving terrain and personal preferences. However, FWD offers style with fuel efficiency at a reliable cost if you primarily drive in the city on paved roadways. But if you regularly go on road trips and like off-road driving, then consider AWD because it is worth your investment.