Difference between AWD, and 4WD       

When reading a car description, it might seem like you're reading a mysterious message. So many random characters and digits are strewn about. If you've heard the terms AWD and 4WD and want to know what they mean and what the difference is, you've come to the correct spot.

What Do the Abbreviations Mean?

Let us begin by defining the acronyms for you.

•       AWD means All Wheel Drive
•       4WD means Four Wheel Drive

What exactly is AWD?

AWD vehicles, as the name suggests, drive with all four wheels. That is, in an AWD powertrain, power is distributed to all four wheels.

The main advantage of AWD vehicles is that they enable the average person to avoid becoming stuck in the snow, mud, ice, sand, or shallow water.

Unless a wheel slides, a button is hit, or the automobile detects a loss of power in one of the wheels, most AWD vehicles run as FWD vehicles. In most circumstances, you won't even notice when your vehicle enters AWD mode. A computer is continually running in your automobile, determining whether or not AWD is required.

The advantages of an AWD vehicle extend beyond just getting you out of the snow. You will benefit from improved handling, turning, launching, and overall performance. The only disadvantage is that your fuel efficiency will suffer.

AWD drivetrains are favored in sports cars and premium vehicles for these reasons. Given that AWD systems often cost thousands of dollars more than FWD or RWD systems, it makes sense to include this powertrain in higher-priced vehicles.

Pros:

• Improved grip, performance, and control in all driving situations 
• The handling and traction are more sporty. 
• Works without user intervention.

Cons:

• The fuel economy is deteriorating.
• Not suitable for genuine off-roading.
• Heavier, more complicated, and costlier than FWD or RWD

What exactly is 4WD?

Many people mix up 4WD with AWD or believe the phrases imply the same thing. 4WD stands for four-wheel drive, which sounds a lot like all-wheel drive. They are, in fact, extremely different.

For serious off-roading, 4WD is the way to go. A transfer case replaces the differential between the drive shafts. This configuration allows each wheel to experience the same torque and spin at the same pace.

This means you can tackle hilly, muddy terrain without worrying about getting trapped. The front and rear wheels of an AWD vehicle spin in tandem with one another. Each wheel in a 4WD vehicle may spin independently.

Pros:

• The only real off-road answer.
• Technology is tough, long-lasting, and dependable.
• Best possible traction.

Cons:

• All other drivetrains are heavier, more costly, and more complicated.
• Not suited for all driving situations.
• On the open road, this can sometimes lead to danger.

Conclusion:

You should now be better familiar with the four main types of drivetrains. You should even be able to tell which one is best for you. Both AWD and 4WD serve distinct functions and have distinct advantages and disadvantages. This information should assist you in making a better-educated selection the next time you visit a dealership.