AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

There are all types of features that you can find in new cars as vehicles become more advanced in the industry. As you shop around, there's a chance you can choose between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. It can be easy to confuse these systems if you think they're the same thing, but they differ and are separate from one another. Although you might not know how each option is different, a few facts can help you determine which option is the best to choose for your next vehicle.

What is All-Wheel Drive?

When a car comes with all-wheel drive, it has a powertrain that delivers sufficient power to each wheel on the front and back of the vehicle. This feature comes with a full-time all-wheel drive option, which helps the wheels stay in constant motion. With a part-time system, it primarily uses a two-wheel drive and has the ability to switch back to an all-wheel drive for added traction.

When the AWD feature is in use, the driver isn't required to engage the system for it to operate, but there are still a few types of cars on the market that offer a few options for control. Each wheel gets enough torque through couplings, differentials, and clutches that are present.

What is Four-Wheel Drive?

Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks often come with four-wheel drive to ensure the wheels remain planted on the ground. This system relies on a set of differentials in the center, front, and rear, in addition to couplings and transfer cases to give power to each wheel.

If you select the 4WD design, it sends torque to each wheel on the car and is available in full-time and part-time modes, which is what you also get with AWD. You can choose between the high ranges and low ranges as the car is operating. You can set this up with a lever or electronic switch, which is easy to do. The low setting works well when you need as much traction as possible. The high setting works better if you plan to drive on gravel, sand, or snow.

Contact or visit our dealership today to learn more about the main differences between AWD and 4WD. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you better understand each option to ensure you can make the right selection for your next car.