4-Wheel Drive (4WD) vs All-Wheel Drive - Know The Difference!

Posted on: Feb 2, 2022 | | Written by:

4-Wheel Drive (4WD) vs All-Wheel Drive - Know The Difference!

Published on February 01, 2022. EST READ TIME: 3 minutes

Cars are such great companions – they get the job done whether you wish to cruise along highways, navigate busy roads or enjoy adventurous off-roading. However, their technologies determine their performance in different situations, to a large extent. For example, an All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) is not the same as 4-Wheel-Drive (4WD). You need to understand how they are different to make the right choice.

But first, remember this about the drive system of cars. Engines produce torque, which is the fundamental driving force of cars. Getting the torque to move the wheels is how cars move. This torque is directed to the wheels via the transmission unit to the axles, both front and rear. The manner in which this power is transmitted defines the drive system. If power is directed only to the front driveshaft, the car is a front-wheel drive car. Similarly, rear-wheel drive cars have power directed to the rear axles. It is important to remember that torque chooses the path of least resistance.

Now, let’s dive into 4WD and AWD. Also, remember to do your car insurance renewal online on time, so that you are financially protected in case of any unforeseen events.

How does AWD work?

An AWD system directs power to all four wheels all the time, to minimise torque wastage and maximise grip. This system works best under slippery road conditions where grip is often lacking. In high-performance cars (that are traditionally rear-wheel drives), the high amount of torque, when launching the car from a standstill, is often wasted in wheel spin. AWD systems avoid that by distributing the power to all the wheels at once, resulting in similar rotation on all the wheels and better grip. Modern AWD systems go one step further, and shift torque between the front and rear tyres as needed, to improve fuel efficiency. Furthermore, AWD cars can be used on paved roads, as the engineering system enables each tyre to rotate at its own speed, a practical requirement when turning.

Limitations:

Perhaps the limitation with AWD is that most of the power is directed towards the wheel, which is most likely on a slippery surface (as this is the path of least resistance). This could be wasteful as the wheel would simply continue spinning without providing real grip. While a limited slip differential can help with such situations, a 4WD system is ideal.

How does 4WD work?

A 4WD system locks the central differential and splits the power evenly between the front and rear axles. What this means is that both the front wheels and rear wheels receive the same amount of power. It guarantees that power is being sent to at least one front wheel and one rear wheel at the same time. This is especially useful in off-road situations wherein the rear or the front of the car gets stuck in mud or is off the ground. Then the power that is being distributed to the grounded part of the car will be able to find the grip to move the vehicle out of the jam it finds itself in.

The engagement of the 4WD must be done by the push of a button or pulling of a lever, as it’s only meant to be used in off-road conditions.

Limitations:

The 4WD system locks the front and rear driveshafts together, making all the wheels rotate at the same speed all the time. This makes turning the car difficult, as the wheels need to move at different speeds to corner effectively. The inner wheel, while taking a turn, has a slower rotation than the outer wheel that must cover a larger distance during the same time. Therefore, the outer wheel will be rotating faster – a phenomenon made possible by the differential systems in modern cars. If you turn the car with 4WD engaged, you will end up damaging the transfer case, gears, and drive shafts. That is why it is recommended to engage 4WD only if it’s needed, when you’re off-roading.

How do you get the best of both worlds?

Capable SUVs come with an all-wheel drive system to distinguish themselves from competitors. Higher-end vehicles also add the 4WD system to the AWD, which can be activated when needed. However, each manufacturer has their own definition and marketing term for these technologies. Some manufacturers may call their AWD a 4WD system, and in turn, call the 4WD system a 4x4 system. The best way to understand the difference is to open the manual and read the capabilities of the technology. If it is something that needs to be activated, it’s most likely a 4WD system. Also, if it’s recommended to not activate it on dry pavement, it is most likely a 4WD system. Otherwise, it is in all likelihood, an AWD.

Conclusion

In conclusion, AWD cars are best suited for different road conditions, while the 4WD system should be reserved for serious off-roading situations only. Both systems hamper the fuel economy, with the AWD providing lower mileage than 4WD. An AWD system can be part-time as well, delivering power to all four wheels only when it detects low traction surfaces. Whereas a 4WD system is usually in a two-wheel-drive mode, by default. Stick to the usage manual for these systems to prevent damage to the components, as the cost of fixing them will be significant. And don’t forget to go for your car insurance renewal online to stay financially protected always.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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