AWD vs 4WD: Which is Better?

The advancements in All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) systems have blurred the differences in how different these two systems are. The fact that AWD systems are readily being used in crossover SUVs adds to the confusion, as many people compare crossover SUVs with conventional off-roaders.

You may also like:

So what are the differences between AWD and 4WD systems, how do they work, and what are the key advantages and disadvantages? Let’s find out.

What is AWD?

As the name suggests, the All-wheel drive system means that all four wheels are engaged simultaneously. Usually, AWD cars are always locked in four-wheel driving mode. This means, unlike conventional 4×4 vehicles, front and rear wheels cannot be operated independently. With the advancements in technology, auto manufacturers have enabled part-time AWD abilities. Some recent models now use part-time AWD rather than conventional AWD systems. With the help of these systems, rather than staying locked in all-wheel-drive settings, front and rear axles can be engaged and disengaged at any given moment.

AWD systems can control the traction of each tyre separately. Irrespective of its type, any AWD vehicle can control the power delivered to each wheel separately. This ensures maximum traction and control over any given moment.

More about how the AWD system works below.

How Does an AWD System Work?

AWD cars require no input from the driver. Full-time and part-time AWD both stay locked in their respective configurations. Every wheel in an AWD system gets independent traction, power and control. Any conventional AWD system has three gearboxes located in the vehicle’s front, center, and rear. This has complete control over the power distribution to each wheel.

Most AWDs come with advanced DCT systems, viscous couplings and multiple differentials. These systems synchronize to deliver the best driving experience with minimal driver input.

The engine delivers the power to the transmission and fine-tunes the raw energy. This rotational energy is then transferred to differentials located in the car’s center, front and rear. With each differential controlling the power and torque, greater efficiency is achieved.

This type of driving system is most common in urban offroad vehicles, crossover SUVs and premium vehicles. Recently launched, KIA Sportage and Tucson are full-time AWD drive vehicles.

What is 4WD?

4WD vehicles are capable of moving all four wheels in multiple configurations. This usability feature gives this driving mode an inherent benefit over any other driving style. The ability to engage and disengage multiple differentials at once explains why all off-road vehicles have it.

4WD, also known as 4×4, is more rugged and advanced than AWD systems. 4WD vehicles have both mechanical and electronic controls for drivers to have maximum control over the car. A normal 4WD has a two-speed transfer case. The high and low range modes handle each off-road situation by manipulating the amount of torque and hp needed at any moment.

High range modes are for less demanding situations. For less abrupt and shallow surfaces, the high range mode ensures each tyre has maximum traction and momentum to keep it going.

Low range modes are for maximum traction, making sure the vehicle runs smoothly over muddy, offroad and uneven surfaces. This mode is preferably only for extreme offroad scenarios as you cannot drive at high speed.

How Does a 4WD System Work?

Some 4×4 vehicles stay locked in a four-wheel-drive system. Toyota Land Cruiser is an excellent example. Don’t confuse differentials with the driving mode. Despite being an all-time 4×4, you can still engage low and high modes for torque and power adjustments. The driver has full control over the power delivery to each wheel.

Traditional 4WD cars come with selectable differential and driving modes. These cars use part-time 4×4 technology, enabling them to use FWD or RWD simultaneously. There is usually a mechanical level or an electronic switch to change differentials and driving modes. Many owners lock the front differential only to allow maximum fuel efficiency. In desperate situations like a car stuck in the mud, locking all differentials gets the vehicle out of the surface.

What’s the Difference Between AWD and 4WD?

Both AWD and 4WD cars spin all four wheels. So, what’s the difference?

AWD systems do not have a transfer case for selecting low and high range modes. Most AWD cars stay locked in all-wheel-drive configuration, while only a handful have part-time AWD abilities. Still, none of these have independent control over differentials and power adjustments.

AWD cars have additional center differentials, which are basically clutch or viscous units. What this center differential does is control the power delivery automatically. Any tyre having less traction is supplied with more power to regain maximum traction. AWDs are smart enough to adjust traction on a per wheel basis.

No matter how advanced these systems are, they are still no match for the control offered by a 4×4 car. The driver can adjust traction to each wheel through transfer case and manual differentials, there is no need for a center differential. Thus allowing for higher control over the vehicle. The reason why 4×4 are preferred in off-road conditions is their higher control, durability and superior off-road capabilities.