In recent years vehicles have evolved to include multiple driving modes that help you achieve several objectives. Such as increasing traction when driving in snow and increasing acceleration to help while driving in rough driving conditions.
One such model is the Power mode in Toyota Highlander. Please keep reading to learn more about this mode and how you can use it.
What does power mode (PWR) mean in a Toyota Highlander?
The modes are not explicitly intended for any specific road or traffic type. Still, they enable to improve fuel economy by allowing more/less control on the request of power from the drivetrain via the gas pedal.
The Toyota PWR mode maps the accelerator pedal to make the vehicle feel sportier. The power output is the same, but the first half of the accelerator travel is more aggressive. Air conditioning is normal, and the engine is less likely to turn off.
The Power ECT Snow mode– (Electronically Managed Transmission) reduces throttle response for extra gradual acceleration on snow/ice to assist scale back wheel spinning. In addition, when the system detects that several wheels are beginning to slip, the system instantaneously recalculates acceleration to increase traction.
The gas pedal is the most reactive; the mode tends to stay on when releasing the gas pedal to improve the response of the drivetrain when depressing the gas pedal again; no changes in A/C-heater functioning.
PWR mode is more responsive than the drive train on winding-mountain roads, merging on a highway quickly without feeling that you need to kick down to get to speed. To get a quicker overall response by keeping the mode on more often
The fuel consumption might not be affected by using the three modes – fuel efficiency is greatly dependent on how one accelerates, traffic, type of roads, temperature, etc.; there are users on Prischat.com that claim very good fuel efficiency in PWR mode, others that cannot get a good fuel efficiency at all in PWR mode
When to use power mode in a Toyota Highlander
Once the Toyota Highlander power mode is activated:
- The internal combustion engine stays on, even during decelerating
- Power management in the ECU is optimized for acceleration pedal response
You can use power mode when you need to make swift progress, such as pulling out of a busy junction during in-city driving.
It can also be used to stabilize your car when driving in the snow. Additionally, Power mode is essential when towing. It accelerates the car making it easier to tow heavy loads.
What is the difference between eco mode and power mode?
ECO mode reduces fuel consumption by modifying accelerator pedal response and heating/cooling performance. It is perfect for urban driving and short distances. ECO mode regulates air conditioning, heated seats, and other instruments that use power in your vehicle.
This alleviates pressure from the engine. And when your engine isn’t working as hard to drive and power all of those instruments, it contributes to better fuel efficiency.
Compared to other driving modes, the eco mode makes driving more economical. That means that you’re saving money on fuel costs. But you’re also contributing to fewer emissions and, ultimately, reducing your ecological footprint.
POWER Mode provides a stronger acceleration response, ensuring more agile driving on slopes and winding roads. In addition, power mode enhances a car’s acceleration range.
Will my Toyota Highlander consume more fuel in PWR mode?
Yes. Power Mode uses the battery to help boost acceleration and the engine’s use. Unfortunately, this means it needs fuel injection to generate engine power. As a result, power mode reduces your car’s fuel efficiency. The Power (PWR) mode keeps your gasoline engine running and adjusts your throttle response.
How do I activate the Power (PWR) Mode in my Toyota Highlander?
In older models, there is a button on the center stack under the radio and to the right of the shifter where a dedicated Power (PWR) Mode button is located. Once activated, a light on the dash with PWR MODE will illuminate just above your vehicle’s speed.
In newer models, the button to activate the Power (PWR) Mode is located on the lower center stack to the right of the shifter and is named DRIVE MODE. Once pressed, the instrument panel will illuminate with various drive modes until PWR MODE is selected, turning some of the backgrounds on the dashboard red.
Note: The power mode will reset to normal once you turn off your vehicle. After each restart, you will need to reactivate the Power (PWR) mode every time manually should you want to continue driving in this mode. Also, selecting another mode, such as ECO mode, would disable the Power (PWR) Mode.