AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

When you shop for cars, you'll soon find that you have multiple options available for choosing the right drivetrain. Cars have different drivetrains that are designed to handle different conditions. While some drivetrains are primarily suitable for driving on paved surfaces, others such as four-wheel drive can help vehicles drive on-road or go off-roading. One of the choices that you'll have, depending on the model and trim level that you're looking for, is whether to get an all-wheel drive (AWD) or a four-wheel drive (FWD). Both types of drivetrains can have different advantages. Four-wheel drive systems are generally more common in trucks and SUVs. Sedans may have all-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive can also be found in trucks and SUVs. While there are some similarities between the drivetrains, there are some distinctions as well that might make one a better choice than the other for your next car.

What is All-Wheel Drive?

All-wheel drive is a drivetrain configuration that sends power simultaneously to each of the car's wheels. The wheels have an equal distribution of power, and they receive power continuously as you drive. The consistency of AWD lends itself well to giving your car superior fuel economy. If saving money at the pump is a consideration when you look for your next vehicle, choosing a car with AWD can help maximize those savings. A vehicle with an all-wheel drive will have an automatic transmission most of the time, but more contemporary models also give you the option of getting a car with paddle-shifting technology so that you can turn on AWD or choose different driving modes as needed.

What is Four-Wheel Drive?

Four-wheel drive is another drivetrain that you can choose. FWD is usually found in larger vehicles such as trucks and SUVs. FWD uses a special torque system that delivers torque on-demand to any of the four wheels when they need additional power. A four-wheel drive can send power as required to one wheel or to multiple wheels in order to provide a vehicle with the traction and stability that it needs. Four-wheel drive comes in two forms, which are part-time and full-time four-wheel drive. They work in the same way, but with a part-time drive, you will have to shift the car into FWD mode as needed. A car with full-time FWD has four-wheel drive all the time, and all four wheels get power continuously.

To find out more about AWD and 4WD and which is best for you, contact our dealership today.