AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

Comparing the Differences Between AWD and 4WD

It's a daunting task to sort through all of the different features that vehicles are equipped with these days, but these features are often what make our drives safer and more comfortable. Many of the automobiles on the market right now can come with either all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. While they sound like similar options, they're actually fairly different. Understanding what each provides will help you make a choice for your next vehicle.

What is All-Wheel Drive?

When you're driving a vehicle with all-wheel drive, you'll experience power going to both the front and rear wheels. When you're using a full-time all-wheel drive function, all four of the wheels will be moving at the same time continuously. Part-time all-wheel drive will only power two of the wheels, using all four of the wheels when additional traction is needed for safety. All-wheel drive is an automatic feature that doesn't need to be turned on or off while driving.

What is Four-Wheel Drive?

The SUV and pickup truck market is inundated with four-wheel drive that utilizes differentials in the front, middle, and back of the vehicle by way of various transfer cases/couplings. Torque goes to all of the wheels in full-time mode, and the part-time feature is available as well. Low and high ranges of driving are available by way of an electronically controlled lever. The low setting is used when a high level of traction is needed on ice or snow. Less slick surfaces like sand and gravel only require the high setting that provides less traction.

You can find out more about all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive by reaching out to McKinney Buick GMC in McKinney. We can show you some of the models that we have available on our lot, that utilize all-wheel or four-wheel drive functions. One of our dealership experts can answer any questions that you may have.