All-Wheel-Drive vs. Four-Wheel-Drive Explained
All-Wheel-Drive vs. Four-Wheel-Drive Explained By Our Auto Dealership Serving Kailua, Hawaii
At Jerry for the People, we are committed to putting the fun back into buying a car. Our knowledgeable and professional sales team treats every customer with respect and courtesy to build a long-term relationship. Whether you are searching for a new or pre-owned Dodge car, Chrysler van, Jeep® SUV, or Hyundai vehicle, we will find you the best option to meet your daily needs.
If you’re focused on exploring the rugged terrain on the island, consider the Four-Wheel Drive Jeep Cherokee. This popular SUV has the ability to conquer practically any trail while still offering a plush interior and state-of-the-art technology. At Jerry for the People, you can also test drive the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe that delivers all-wheel drive in a perfect balance of horsepower and fuel efficiency in a choice of four trim styles.
Choosing AWD or 4WD
Most vehicles today are front wheel drive. But when road conditions become slippery from a tropical storm, or for roads that aren’t even paved at all, you’ll want to consider All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD).
Although the terms AWD and 4WD are often used interchangeably, they actually operate quite differently and are found on different model vehicles.
All Wheel Drive
All-Wheel Drive, as the name implies, feeds power to each corner. It is designed with a drivetrain that employs a front, rear, and center differential to provide power to all four wheels of a vehicle. Technically, most AWD systems deliver power primarily to one set of wheels, front or rear. When slippage is detected at one axle, power is diverted to the other axle for added traction.
AWD is especially helpful in sloppy road conditions and when driving over moderate off-road terrains such as mud, sand, and other loose surfaces.
AWD is also fine for most normal snow conditions or for light-duty, off-pavement journeys. If you’ll be driving in severe snow or true off-road situations, you should opt for a vehicle with four wheel drive.
Four-Wheel Drive
This is a drivetrain that has been designed to provide power to all four wheels of a vehicle. 4WD is ideal for severe off-road driving situations such as climbing over boulders, navigating through deep water, and tackling steep hills on low-traction surfaces. Quite simply, it is the best choice when regularly driving on all-terrain or unpaved roadways. And it is the best option on sloppy roads.
If you’re unsure what type of drive train is best for your lifestyle and recreation needs, give us a call or stop by our Kaneohe Chrysler dealership. We’ll help guide you toward the car, truck or SUV to best fit you and your family’s requirements, whether it is the Kelly Blue Book award winning Best Resale Value in its class 4WD Jeep Wrangler, or the popular Dodge Challenger nostalgic muscle car with modern technology, iconic design, and fuel efficiency. We look forward to seeing you soon at Jerry for the People!
