![screenshot 202026 09 10 20134526]()
AWD vs. 4WD Explained
We describe how all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD, a.k.a. 4x4) work: similarities, differences, and ways they can be confused.
By Eric Tingwall | Caranddriver
Here's a comparative analogy for understanding the similarities and differences between all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD): an espresso is to Irish coffee as all-wheel drive is to four-wheel drive. While espresso and all-wheel drive are acceptable for everyday use, Irish coffee and four-wheel drive should be reserved for more special occasions (though never at the same time), the times when you really need something with an extra bit of strength. And to clear things up, the term 4x4 is synonymous with 4WD, much as 4x2 is analogous to two-wheel drive (2WD).
How All-Wheel Drive Works
AWD is optimized for on-road use. It can send the engine's power to all four tires all of the time. Due to this, AWD helps keep your vehicle moving forward better than front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive on snow-covered or rain-slicked roads.
How Four-Wheel Drive Works
Four-wheel drive systems are part-time setups intended only for use off-road or on extremely slippery surfaces. Vehicles with these setups require the driver physically shift into and out of 4WD by turning a knob, pushing a button, or yanking a lever. Doing so locks the front and rear driveshafts together, keeping the front and rear axles turning at the same speed.
In sand, mud, and snow, this guarantees that, at a minimum, engine torque is always being sent to at least one front and one rear wheel, without relying on computers to predict or detect wheelslip. And that means there's more power being put to the ground in ultraslippery conditions to get you moving and keep you going. But 4WD is not designed for use on paved roads. It's typically reserved for vehicles with serious off-road chops, such as the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator SUV and pickup.
Restrictions on Four-Wheel Drive Use
In a curve, a vehicle's four wheels all rotate at different speeds. You can see this in the tracks left when a vehicle turns through fresh snow as each wheel traces a unique arc. To allow the front and rear tires to spin at different speeds, AWD systems use either a center differential or a clutch-pack coupling between the front and rear axles. We've covered the complexities and nuances of the common hardware in our overview of AWD systems.
Best of Both Worlds
Just as you can down separate shots of espresso and Baileys simultaneously, it's possible to buy a vehicle with both an AWD and a 4WD system. Such systems allow the driver to choose AWD with an Auto or 4Auto mode and 4WD with a separate 4High setting. (These vehicles typically also include rear-wheel-drive 2High and low-range 4Low modes.) A Mercedes G-class, for instance, behaves like an AWD vehicle until you lock its center differential, at which point it becomes a 4WD truck.
4WD and AWD In the Ice and Snow
After getting stuck or losing control in slippery conditions, some drivers become convinced that they need a vehicle with AWD or 4WD. That's not necessarily true. Because AWD and 4WD send power to all four wheels, rather than two, they do provide roughly twice as much traction as a two-wheel-drive vehicle for accelerating in slippery conditions.
Click HERE to read more!
SOURCE: AWD vs. 4WD Explained
Visit our website for many more details and pictures at www.CourtenayMazda.com
We are a family-run, locally owned and operated dealership in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island specializing in new and used vehicle sales, and servicing all areas of the Comox Valley including Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, Parksville, Nanaimo, Victoria and all of Vancouver Island. Call us toll-free at 1-866-806-2818 or locally at 250-338-5777.
Come visit Vancouver Island's Premier pre-owned vehicle location across from Costco and Crown Isle in Courtenay, BC. We have an exceptionally large and fully reconditioned inventory with a complete 155-point inspection on every vehicle! Hundreds more on-line to choose from. We also service all makes and models with 6 service bays, including Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Ford, Dodge, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Hyundai, Jeep, Pontiac, Subaru, Kia, VW, BMW, Mercedes and so many more. Tour our welcoming facility, meet our staff and join us for a coffee!
We are the one of the busiest pre-owned vehicle dealerships on Vancouver Island. Along with our fine line of New Mazda cars and Used Mazda vehicles, we market pre-owned import and domestic brands of quality Cars, Trucks, Vans, CUV's and SUV's - you name it and we will find it - and can help you get into the car or truck you need, no matter your current credit situation, without hassle or delay. Let us help you!
For more than 20 years, Courtenay Mazda has been a trusted and respected used car dealer in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island. We are dedicated to ensuring that you go far in a used car or truck, and it starts with an exclusive inventory of quality, reliable used cars and trucks, and a financing service that can provide you with guaranteed approval, help you restore your credit, and get you the best rate possible for your needs and situation.
Courtenay Mazda -- MVSA Certified #40158
