[Cheryl]

I test drove both the 1.6 Turbo and 2WD yesterday. I cannot decide which one to buy. There is a price difference between the 2 and the 1.6T definitely has more zip, however I don’t need a 4WD. I would love to hear what other people bought and why?

 

[Bebop]

They don't offer a Turbo without AWD in Australia?

 

[MarKona]

To me, the turbo had a major lag. I feel the 2 liter is more than enough. To each their own right?

 

[Cheryl]

No they don't! Do they offer the turbo without the AWD in other countries?

 

[Cheryl]

There is the 3 power option on both options ....Normal-eco and sport. The sport option really revs out on the 2WD I thought, however I think you are right MarKona the 2WD seemed sufficient. The AWD option is only really for off road and rough conditions like snow/wet I guess? And where I am there are no rough conditions other than hot weather. Thanks for your feedback

 

[theartcoach]

We got the 1.6T FWD Limited. We love it so far

 

[Shel]

Same in Canada -- turbo only with awd.

But for what it's worth the awd does have the better rear suspension. Slightly poorer fuel economy, though all fuel economy figures for Australia seem better than for Canada (and USA).

Finaly, the recommended gas here is "regular" for both the 2.0 and the 1.6 turbo -- unusual for a turbo. That's about a 20 cent saving per litre here over premium -- a difference the turbo WON'T cost you..

I bought the AWD , but need it for the winters here.

 

[johnparjr]

I have the Turbo with FWD as I didn't want AWD because the gas mileage is worse

 

[Cheryl]

In Australia the 1.6T AWD is the FWD. We only have the 2 versions, 1.6T FWD and 2WD. I have decided to purchase the 2WD Highlander as I don't require a FWD/AWD. Its a shame they didn't bring out a 1.6T 2WD here as that would have been perfect!!... I am purchasing this beauty. The car has a wrap and its Phantom Black underneath ...happy times . Thanks for all your feedback everyone.

 

[hamjp]

From little I read, the awd does have a better ride. Only reason I got awd. Then learned the limited below 19 mph use of awd. Like others I confused this with 4wd idea. Best of luck.

 

[BlackBetty]

Having driven both of the tip-trim in Australia (HighLander)

In 2WD 2.0L Auto and 1.6L AWD Turbo... I purchased the 1.6T AWD.

Suspension is nicer, it feels sportier in acceleration and has LOWER fuel usage than the 2.0.

I only wish the 6 speed auto was in the 1.6T in AWD, Dual Clutch is nice... but it's better to not have to tell people "drive it like a manual or you will kill my clutches"

(previous DSG owner anyway)