Difference Between All Wheel Drive and All Wheel Drive

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Some of the terms you come across in new or used car ads are quite simple, such as year, make, model, mileage, and car category. However, other terms, in particular “all-wheel drive” (4WD or 4×4) and “all-wheel drive” (AWD) can be a little confusing. Here’s what you need to know about the difference between the two.

What is the difference between 4WD and 4WD?

Given that most cars, SUVs, and non-commercial trucks have four wheels, it’s safe to assume that 4WD and AWD are one and the same. But that would be too easy. To complicate matters further, some manufacturers come up with their own names for driving systems, such as 4MATIC (Mercedes-Benz) and xDrive (courtesy BMW).

In addition, the two systems tend to appeal to the same consumer group: those who live in areas where rain, snow, and other weather conditions affect road conditions, and/or people who plan to drive off-road.

Here are some of the main differences between 4WD and AWD, according to Kelley Blue Book and Carmax :

four-wheel drive vehicle

  • Designed for slippery, loose or uneven surfaces.
  • Distributes power evenly between front and rear wheels
  • Usually uses the rear wheels on paved roads.
  • Handles steep slopes well
  • More towing options than all-wheel drive
  • Poor fuel economy
  • It is used by most pickups.

Four-wheel drive

  • Designed for road use
  • The car automatically switches power between the front and rear wheels to achieve optimal traction.
  • Provides extra grip in bad weather
  • Costs higher but adds value if you sell
  • More economical than 4WD
  • Used on cars and vans.

This guide from Kelley Blue Book provides more information about each system, including what to consider when buying a new car.

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