What is The Difference Between AWD and 4WD?

If added traction on Alcoa roads is what you’re after when searching for your next vehicle, you’ll come across many AWD and 4WD vehicles. This might lead you to ask about the difference between AWD and 4WD and which is better: AWD or 4WD for your commute. So, is AWD the same as 4WD? The short answer is no. AWD means “all-wheel drive,” and 4WD means “four-wheel-drive.”

Today at Ole Ben Franklin Motors of Alcoa, we’ll go over what is the difference between AWD and 4WD, compare AWD vs. 4WD, and then determine which is better: AWD or 4WD. Then feel free to take a look at our large selection of pre-owned vehicles to find a capable AWD and 4WD vehicle.

Is AWD the Same as 4WD?

So, is AWD the same as 4WD? While they sound similar, there are fundamental differences when comparing AWD vs. 4WD. Before deciding if you want a vehicle with AWD or 4WD, let’s explore what is the difference between AWD and 4WD:

AWD

AWD or “all-wheel drive” means power from the engine is directed to the front and rear wheels via a differential. Full-time AWD and part-time AWD are the two most common AWD systems. As their name suggests, full-time AWD means power is sent to the front and rear wheels at all times. Part-time AWD means power is sent to the front and rear wheels where traction is needed. When deciding between AWD or 4WD, you’ll notice most AWD cars are unibody vehicles.

4WD

4WD stands for “four-wheel-drive”. You’ll notice most 4WD platforms are on truck-based vehicles. 4WD is a traditional 4×4 drivetrain and similar to AWD in that power is sent to the front and rear wheels. However, the difference between AWD and 4WD is that 4WD vehicles can also direct power between specific left and right wheels as well. If you’re regularly going off the beaten path in Lenoir City in an AWD vs. 4WD vehicle, you’ll notice the 4WD vehicle likely performs better. 4WD drivetrains are usually designed to handle off-road conditions.

Is AWD Better than 4WD?

Now that we know the difference between AWD and 4WD? Let’s go over which is better: AWD or 4WD? The truth is, they’re both capable systems, and it just depends on your specific Sevierville needs. Is AWD better than 4WD for quick trips around town? Possibly, but 4WD is likely better suited for off-road adventures as well.

In general, AWD is more than enough for most drivers who are looking for added traction when the weather gets tough. But if you’re regularly going to be in off-road conditions or need something for the job site, we’d recommend a 4WD vehicle. If you’re ready to get behind the wheel of one of our AWD or 4WD vehicles, get ahead by applying for financing today!

Explore an AWD and 4WD vehicle at Ole Ben Franklin Motors of Alcoa Today!

Since we’ve answered, “Is AWD better than 4WD?”, explore our selection of AWD and 4WD vehicles today at our Alcoa dealership. We’re proud of our expansive inventory, and we know there’s bound to be one that fits your needs and budget. Our finance experts are excellent at what they do, and they’re ready to assist you with your options. As always, please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or visit the Ole Ben Franklin Motors of Alcoa team in person, and we’ll assist you in any way we can. See you soon!