Which term describes a system that is optimized for driving on highways?

The term that describes a system optimized for driving on highways is all-wheel drive (AWD). AWD systems distribute power to all four wheels automatically, which enhances traction and stability on paved surfaces, making it ideal for highway driving. This system is designed to improve handling and traction in a variety of driving conditions, including rain or light snow, often found on highways.

Unlike four-wheel drive (4WD), which is typically designed for off-road use and often requires driver engagement, AWD operates automatically without the need for driver input, making it well-suited for the continuous and varying conditions encountered on highways. Furthermore, off-road is a term that emphasizes capabilities for rough terrains and uneven surfaces, not for optimized highway performance. A manual transmission simply refers to the type of gear-shifting mechanism in a vehicle and does not relate to the drive system optimized for highway use.