AWD vs 4WD: Know the Differences

With the rise in popularity of SUVs and CUVs, driver preference has shifted to vehicles with either all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). While they both provide great traction and control, AWD and 4WD are often mistaken for each other despite their differences. It is important to understand the distinction, though, because it can mean the difference between getting home safely in inclement weather or having trouble on the road.

In terms of basics, AWD and 4WD utilize different parts of a vehicle. All-wheel drive typically uses more components: an engine, a torque converter (or clutch), a transmission, a center differential, a clutch pack, a rear differential, and a front differential; although, some other AWD systems use unique technology such as hybrid electric. On the other hand, four-wheel drive typically uses an engine, a torque converter (or clutch), a transmission, a transfer case, a rear differential, and a front differential.

All-wheel drive

So, what is an AWD system? Simply, it is a system that delivers power from your vehicle to all four wheels at the same time for the entire time you are driving your car; however, the amount of torque allocated to each wheel varies across time. This is called active AWD, and depending on the vehicle’s system, it will typically operate with either a front or rear bias. However, the system will direct power to your vehicle’s axle when traction is needed at one or more of the other wheels. AWD systems also typically use a center differential (there are many different types) that enables the front and rear wheels to operate at different speeds.

When an AWD system is front-biased, it means the vehicle distributes more torque to the vehicle’s front wheels than rear wheels. Of course, then when the system is rear-biased, it distributes more torque to the rear wheels and the front wheels.

Four-wheel drive

The original four-wheel drive system was developed to maintain optimal traction when manually selected. So how does 4WD work? Four-wheel drive means the front and rear driveshafts can be locked together to move at the same speed and distribute the same amount of torque to all four of your vehicle’s wheels, and it is generally intended for off-road use and on very slippery surfaces, such as inclement weather. However, there are several different types:

• Part Time 4WD: The most traditional and best type of 4WD system, this operates on two-wheel drive unless manually or automatically switched to four-wheel drive.
• On-demand 4WD: This system operates in 2WD and automatically activates other wheels when traction is needed.
• Full-time 4WD: Sometimes called permanent 4WD or automatic 4WD, this system sends an equal twenty-five percent of power to each wheel all of the time, but a clutch pack or center differential enables the front and rear driveshafts to operate at different speeds.

Four-wheel drive vs all-wheel drive in snow

Frequently asked about, there is indeed a difference between the performance of 4WD and AWD when driving in the snow. However, it really depends on how much snow there is and the setting of the drive. For driving over a snow-covered flat field, 4WD is best, but AWD is better for driving on a snowy highway.

For all of your questions about the difference between AWD and 4WD, visit or call Smith Chevrolet in Hammond, where our team of automotive experts are eager to help!