AWD vs. 4WD – Differences, Features and Examples

  AWD and 4WD have many differences. A 4WD (4 wheel drive) car divides equal power amongst the wheels whereas AWD (all-wheel drive) electronically lets the driver control power in the front and back wheels. The AWD operates without any input from the driver whereas 4WD requires the driver to fully add input and operate it. Furthermore, AWD is more robust and 4WD more sophisticated.  

What is an AWD (All wheel drive)

An AWD gives power to both the front and rear wheels at the same time and lets you drive continuously. It runs smoothly under normal conditions.  

How does an All-wheel drive work?

This technology is fully automated and requires no activation for the driver to put in. Most of the newer edition cars send power to either the front or rear axle and takes it away when it detects any loss of grip. 

Types of All-Wheel Drives

Full time AWD

An AWD provides a better drive on dry pavements, icy, slippery and snowy roads as well as muddy tracks. It is a comfortable and convenient.  

Part time AWD

Depending on the make, part-time AWD provides torque to either front or back wheels. It automatically detects the demand and engages the either two wheels.  

When to use an AWD

Even though some people think AWD is best for slippery roads, in fact the front wheels of AWD have no solid grip and should be used in areas with more rough surfaces. They provide a significant safety driving in the city and also perform better there. The AWD has more safety benefits than 4WDs and provides a higher level of control. It also gives a lower risk of accidents.   

Examples of AWD cars

1. Honda HR-V - $19,670

2. Sabaru Forester - $24,295

3. Toyota RA-V4 - $24,660

4. Sabaru Crosstrek - $22,710

 

Honda HR –V - $19,670  

Sabaru Forester - $24,295  

Toyota RA-V4 - $24,660 

Sabaru Crosstrek – $22,710  

  

Pros and Cons of All Wheel Drive Cars

Pros:   · An AWD car provides great acceleration as well as traction included which is distributed among all four tires.  · It is great for sandy or dry area and wouldn’t need to be towed. It also runs great in hard or developed areas.  · It would make a great resale in places with harsh cold weathers or rough, rocky roads. · The driver doesn’t need to fully engage in controlling.  · AWDs come in wide varieties like SUVs and sedans.      Cons:   · The AWD cars are not fuel efficient  · They are high priced.  · The maintenance is also very costly even if doesn’t need often. · These cars do not drive well in snowy areas as they are only made for acceleration and traction purposes. · AWD need uniform tire tread otherwise it will affect the entire balance of the car.   

What is a 4WD

4WD vehicles usually come in SUVs that engages a person in mechanical driving to give power on all four wheels. The mechanics principle goes back to the traditional system of motorized transportation and is more sophisticated. It is great for more off-road use.  

How does Four Wheel Drive work?

A 4WD vehicle has a direct mechanical connection to the front and rear axles with no technicalities to control or change movements in terms of different rotations. This means that on any slippery surface the tires will not have any control on the axles with a smaller radius.   

Full time 4WD

Full time 4WD increases traction in surfaces that are slippery, muddy or rough. Unlike AWD they have a much better grip on these surfaces and improve handling as they give full control to the driver. 

Part time 4WD

Part time vehicles put all four tires in use only when needed. Without this, the 4WD works just like a 2WD. 

When to use a Four Wheel Drive

4WD provides torque to all four of the wheels to increase traction. It also gives amazing drive on extremely slippery grounds. They are more strongly built and are great for on-road conditions like snow, ice, sand or gravel.  

Example of 4WD cars in 2018

1. Jeep wrangler - $23,995

2. Sabaru Impreza - $18,495

3. Honda CR-V - $24,250

4. Toyota 4Runner - $34,810

Jeep wrangler - $23,995 Sabaru Impreza - $18,495 Honda CR-V - $24,250 Toyota 4Runner - $34,810     

Pros and Cons of 4WD cars

Pros: · When needed, the 4WD will transmit traction to two tires.  · It will reduce your chances of getting stuck and will help you tow heavy things. · Best for both on and off road. · Great resale value. · More weight contributes to better grip on roads. Cons: · These vehicles cost more  · It has more fuel consumption  · These cars can be difficult in mechanics.  · Costly maintenance  · They are heavier vehicles and increase the braking distances.    Final Word For AWD cars, these are best for casual use inside developed cities on hard and dry surfaces and can also be great for sandy areas. They can be available in cars, trucks and SUVs in every size which means that there is a more variety in these types.  Whereas in, 4WD vehicles are great for travelling on steep and rocky surfaces as well as slippery grounds. It is a better choice for those who live in remote areas with extreme weather conditions. These usually come in trucks and SUVs and comfortably manage on and off roads. It gives the driver a great amount of control over the vehicle.