What’s the Difference Between 4WD and AWD?

4WD vs AWD Vehicles

What’s the difference between four-wheel drive (4WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD)? If you have ever looked at a new car, truck, crossover or SUV, you have almost certainly noticed these two terms in the list of available features, but do you know what they mean? Comparing4WD vs AWD vehicles is a great way to illustrate the positives and negatives of each feature and help you determine which fits you best. If you live in an area where you regularly face imposing road and weather conditions, these systems enhance traction and handling and can go a long way towards getting you where you need to go safely. Take a look at some of the top Chevy models at McCluskey Chevrolet, which incorporate 4WD or AWD, so you can make an informed car buying decision.

4WD Vehicles
Four-wheel drive is primarily found in trucks and SUVs and is designed to combat extreme road, weather and trail conditions. Most 4WD models offer a part-time system which you can engage at the turn of a dial. When activated, power is sent through the transmission to a transfer case, which then delivers maximum torque to each wheel equally. As a result each wheel turns at the same speed and your vehicle will keep going forward in the most extreme off-road conditions. A negative to four-wheel drive systems is that in drier conditions, especially when turning, handling can become unwieldy.

Just a couple of the award-winning Chevy models at McCluskey Chevrolet, which feature 4WD systems include the all-new, Motor Trend Truck of the Year 2015 Chevy Colorado and the power-packed 2015 Chevy Silverado.

AWD Vehicles
If you are looking for improved performance and traction in your everyday driving situations then we suggest AWD. All-wheel drive is a full-time feature and employs a gear differential, which splits torque between front and rear axles via a center differential and then between individual wheels by using front and rear differentials. In optimum road conditions, this increases performance value and when road and weather conditions are poor, it automatically delivers more torque to wheels with better traction. There are many positives to AWD vehicles, but they are not designed for more extreme situations and it can decrease your fuel economy.

Several Chevy models exemplify the overall performance benefits of AWD in the Cincinnati and Columbus, OH areas. Some excellent options with available AWD that you may want to consider include the all-new 2015 Chevy Trax and the flagship crossover 2015 Chevy Equinox.

Comparing 4WD vs AWD vehicles is a comparison of two excellent systems that will improve handling, traction, off-road capability and overall performance. Understanding the difference between 4WD and AWD is half the battle, but before you make your decision, it is important that you experience them first hand. At McCluskey Chevrolet, we offer both options, so stop in and take a new Chevy for a test drive to truly experience 4WD and AWD.