AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?
There are many decisions you will need to make when you buy a car. One factor you'll need to think about in your next ride is the type of drivetrain that you want. The drivetrain might not be the first item that comes to mind when car shopping, especially if you are focused on other benefits such as safety and technology. However, the type of drivetrain you get determines the vehicle's capabilities and how well it performs in adverse conditions such as bad weather and rocky terrain. Two of the most common options you'll see when looking for a car are all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (FWD). All-wheel drive is generally found on cars of all sizes, while many trucks and SUVs have four-wheel drive.
What is All-Wheel Drive?
All-wheel drive is for the most part an automatic drivetrain. When you are driving along under normal conditions, AWD sends power evenly across all four wheels. AWD is a great choice if you are looking for fuel efficiency, as the steady supply of power that it provides to the wheels translates to better gas mileage. Although most wheels receive an equal distribution of power, all-wheel drive may occasionally send power to just the two front or rear wheels when necessary for better traction. AWD is considered a versatile drivetrain system that helps your car get through normal driving conditions and some bad weather.
What is Four-Wheel Drive?
Four-wheel drive sounds similar to AWD, but there are some distinct differences between the two that should be considered. FWD can be either a part-time or a full-time drivetrain depending on the vehicle you get. FWD is commonly found on trucks and SUVs. While AWD sends power to all wheels at the same time in your car, FWD will only send power to the wheels that require more power on demand. Four-wheel drive systems are preferred for handling tougher conditions since they are better at helping cars tackle rough and rocky terrain. Four-wheel drive comes in two types, which are part-time and full-time systems. Four-wheel drive is also available in several ranges, including low and high range. While four-wheel drive is typically automatic, the driver can choose between low-range and high-range gearing for an optimal ride. The driver can switch between the two gearing systems using a mechanical level on the floor. Low-range gear provides optimal traction, while the default setting is high-range gearing.
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