AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

Avoiding confusion is important when you're looking at the different vehicles available at Vandergriff Honda in Arlington. It can become overwhelming to consider all of the different features that are available both inside and out of an automobile these days, and you may not know what to choose. Safety is something that many of our clients care a great deal about, and we have a number of vehicles on our lot that come with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Not sure how they're different? Let's talk a bit more about these features.

What is All-Wheel Drive?

The powertrain in a vehicle with all-wheel drive is going to power the front and rear tires when the full-time mode is functioning. This same vehicle will also be equipped with a two-wheel, part-time mode that is in use most of the time. The vehicle senses when to switch over to the full-time mode in order to provide ample traction. Nothing needs to be done on your end. This is something that will engage on its own.

What is Four-Wheel Drive?

A larger vehicle that has a bit more weight to it is typically equipped with four-wheel drive. There are differentials, transfer cases, and couplings on the front, center, and rear in order to transfer power to all four of the wheels that are in motion.

The torque that's sent to all four wheels will be provided as your vehicle needs it for traction. Full-time and part-time modes are also available for this option, as well as low and high ranges. The low setting is used for ample traction on surfaces that are very slick. There is a high setting for other road surfaces that require less traction, such as snow or gravel.

We encourage you to reach out to Vandergriff Honda if you're interested in learning more about the all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models that we have available at our Arlington location. Our expert team of professionals can also answer any questions that you may have regarding the differences between these two features.