Head-to-Head Analysis of Four-Wheel-Drive vs AWD

While all cars, trucks, and SUVs have an engine, transmission, and four tires, the way these components interact can vary. For example, the engine and transmission channel power to the front two wheels on front-wheel drive vehicles, but power is sent to the back two wheels on rear-wheel drive vehicles. But with a four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive system, power is sent through all four wheels. When and how this power is sent further differentiates four-wheel-drive vehicles from all-wheel-drive vehicles. Let's take a closer look at four-wheel-drive (4WD) vs all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles to understand the differences and pros and cons of each. If you have further questions or would like to get more up close and personal with a vehicle of your choosing, contact Clift Buick GMC.

What Is Four-Wheel-Drive?

4WD Highlights

Perfect when driving off-road and navigating more difficult terrain
Designed for confidently driving in more extreme conditions
Usually offered on larger trucks and SUVs
Often reserved for vehicles with higher towing capacities

4WD is the older of the two types of drive trains. With 4WD systems, the front and rear wheels are linked and power is split evenly among them. As a result, 4WD vehicles feature four wheels that turn all the time. These tough and rugged drivetrains are more useful for serious off-roading on trucks and SUVs.
4WD power is perfect for cranking through mud bogs and climbing over boulders. 4WD systems keep the tires moving and pushing no matter what's underneath. Utilizing 4WD systems is only suggested when tackling the roughest and most rugged terrain because it can reduce fuel efficiency, overwork your vehicle, and eat through road tires.

Pros of 4WD

4WD drivetrains are usually ideal for water and boulder crossing or more rigorous off-road conditions.
The extra weight from the added 4WD components helps increase grip.

Cons of 4WD

4WD systems tend to cost more than front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive drive trains
The extra weight from 4WD parts can reduce fuel efficiency.

All-Wheel-Drive Drive Trains

AWD Highlights

A smart system that thinks for itself, so you can focus on driving
Strikes a balance between extra traction and fuel economy
Engineered for paved road driving, but can be useful in light off-road driving
Offered on an expansive selection of crossovers, cars, and SUVs

While 4WD is commonly reserved for SUVs and trucks and can be activated with a switch, you can find all-wheel-drive on an expansive selection of cars and SUVs. Like 4WD, AWD connects your vehicle's engine to the rear and front wheels. However, most AWD systems can alter the amount of power channeled to the back and front wheels based on your needs. AWDs may even be able to disconnect power entirely from one set of wheels, which is a part-time all-wheel drive system. Part-time AWD is the most common.
Because AWD systems are not active around the clock, vehicles utilize sensors to detect when more traction is needed. These sensors monitor slippage and seamlessly activate additional wheels to ensure you have the traction to navigate the best path forward. All you have to do is drive, and your vehicle will take care of the rest. This makes life easier for you and ensures your vehicle operates with maximum efficiency.

Pros of AWD Drive Train

Instinctively provides traction when you need it
Can bolster the resale value of your vehicle
Increases confidence and peace of mind when driving on wet, snowy, or inhospitable terrain.

Cons of AWD Drivetrain

While the AWD is less expensive than a RWD or FWD, it costs less than the 4WD
It has added complexity
Increases the weight of the vehicle and can decrease MPGs

Contact Clift Buick GMC

If you're in the market for a new or used truck or SUV, Clift Buick GMC offers one of the largest and most diverse selections of 4WD and AWD vehicles. Our experts specialize in understanding your needs and matching you with the best possible solution. Contact Clift Buick GMC today.