AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference

Most vehicles sold in the United States come with either a four-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive system. However, 4WD and AWD terminology can be confusing, especially since 4WD systems have become more sophisticated while AWD system has gotten more robust, blurring the differences between the two. Below is a simple definition of the differences between the two and how each works.

What is All-Wheel Drive?

An all-wheel drive system helps in powering both the rear and front wheels at the same time. However, there are two types of AWD drivetrains; full-time AWD and part-time AWD. Part-time AWD, also known as automatic AWD, operates in two-wheel drive mode but changes to an all-wheel drive model when you need more traction. On the other hand, full-time AWD drives all-wheel continuously, regardless of the road surface.

Both part-time and full-time AWD systems function with no involvement from the driver. Nevertheless, some cars provide drivers with selectable modes, allowing the driver to determine the amount of torque that goes to a specific wheel. For the car to optimize its power, all wheels get enough torque from a set of multi-plate clutches, viscous couplings, and differentials.

What is Four-Wheel Drive?

You will primarily find this system in large trucks and SUVs. However, thanks to technology, the engineering of the 4WD system has become more sophisticated, and you can find this system in luxurious and comfortable sedans and coupes. Like the all-wheel drive system, the four-wheel drive system sends power to all wheels, increasing the car's traction when needed. They also come with two driving modes; the part-time driving mode and the full-time driving mode.

Many four-wheel drive systems also have high and low ranges that the driver can select using a mechanical level or an electronic switch. The low range setting provides the car with extreme traction on off-road surfaces, while the high setting is useful for slippery road conditions like loose sand, ice, snow, and gravel. If you live in a remote area, enjoy off-road trips, or need to work in harsh weather conditions, a machine with a 4WD system can work the trick.

If you want to learn more about the strength of these two systems, feel free to contact Westway Ford. We have a team of experienced and fully-trained experts who can help you identify the two differences.