AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

AWD vs. 4WD System - What's the Difference?

One beauty of shopping for a new, used, or certified pre-owned car is that there are many options to pick from. Choosing an SUV, car, or truck with 4WD or AWD is one of the options, but which is better, and how do they differ. When you needed a machine that used all wheels to drive a few years ago, you could only pick from heavy-duty trucks and full-size SUVs with a 4WD system. Thanks to technology, different automakers make cars with all-wheel drive systems, creating room for more options. However, the main challenge comes in differentiating between the two options.

What is All-Wheel-Drive System?

AWD system is a drive mode that transmits power to both the rear and front wheel. However, this occurs in two ways: part-time and full-time. The full-time system will continuously transmit power to both the rear and front wheels, regardless of the driving condition. The part-time will send power to two wheels and automatically turn on the AWD feature when the car needs traction.

On various occasions, the driver does not need any input to run these systems. But some models come with different drive modes that the driver might need to change to give the car more power and control over rough obstacles.

What is Four-Wheel-Drive System?

Many automakers have equipped their heavy-duty trucks and SUVs with a 4WD system for many years because of its robust nature. 4WD systems are always ideal for vehicles that want to take on off-road conditions, including areas with snow, sand, mud, and water.

4WD system features a series of differentials in the center, rear, and front paired with transfer cases and couplers to provide power to the wheels. Reconnection and disconnection of the 4WD system occur with simple buttons and knobs, but old models come with a lever that turns the system on and off. They also have selectable high and low ranges that give the car total control. The high-setting gives the car better control in slick conditions, while the low-range setting equips the car with more traction for off-road purposes.

To know whether you need an AWD or 4WD car, understand how you use your car, SUV, or truck. You can also speak to our sales team at Vandergriff Chevrolet, who will help you with your needs. Feel free to stop at our dealership and take a test drive.