AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

When you get a vehicle, you want to make sure that it is matched for your lifestyle in many ways. One aspect of your vehicle that you will want to think about is the drivetrain that it has, which in turn determines what kind of conditions your car can drive in and even where you can safely and confidently venture. The powertrain that your car has will also be determined in part by the car's body style. If you drive an SUV or a truck, your vehicle is more likely to have four-wheel drive, which is a practical drivetrain if you want to be able to drive in bad weather or if you plan to drive your vehicle off-road. Four-wheel drive comes in several gear ranges to ensure that you can get through harrowing conditions with more confidence. You may not have as many off-road capabilities with all-wheel drive, which is another popular and versatile drivetrain option, but all-wheel drive provides exceptional fuel economy and the satisfaction of knowing that you will enjoy a stable and confident ride no matter where you go.

What is All-Wheel Drive?

All-wheel drive is a popular drivetrain that is found on many kinds of cars. An all-wheel drive is a good option for a drivetrain if you drive a sedan, crossover, truck, or SUV. All-wheel drive provides a car with a decent amount of traction and handling, which in turn translates to good control and performance. The added advantage of all-wheel drive is that it delivers power evenly and consistently to all four wheels at once unless the system detects that some wheels need more power than others. All-wheel drive will automatically make adjustments to send power as required to all wheels or some wheels on demand. All-wheel drive may come as a part-time feature with your car, which means that you can switch into all-wheel drive when your vehicle needs additional traction or handling. All-wheel drive comes with automatic and manual transmissions.

What is Four-Wheel Drive?

Four-wheel drive is another option for your vehicle when you are deciding on a drivetrain to get. Four-wheel drive gives your car the handling capabilities provided by all-wheel drive and more. When you get four-wheel drive, your car will be able to get through a broader range of conditions and tackle steep and formidable terrain with greater ease, including rocky and muddy trails. A four-wheel drive also comes with low-range gearing.

To learn more about the benefits of AWD, 4WD, or both, contact our helpful dealership today.