AWD vs. 4WD: What’s the Difference?

You’re shopping for a quality vehicle that can handle IN winter roads and wet weather. As such, you need to know the difference between AWD and 4WD. The team at Lafayette GMC has several AWD and 4WD vehicles, like SUVs and pickup trucks, you can shop for.

You may wonder: is AWD the same as 4WD? In short, no, they are not the same. So what is the difference between AWD and 4WD, and which is the better option? Find out with this helpful guide, and then, check out all of our new vehicles for sale at our dealership in Lafayette!

What Is AWD?

AWD, or “all-wheel drive,” is a drivetrain configuration in which torque is directed from the engine to the front and rear axles to all four wheels via differentials. AWD vehicles typically have two kinds of systems, such as full-time AWD and part-time AWD.

As their names suggest, full-time AWD systems send torque to the front and rear axles all the time. Meanwhile, part-time AWD systems monitor road conditions and driving behavior to decide when it makes sense to send torque only to the front axle. It is most common to see AWD systems on vehicles with unibody frames because they have better stability.

What Is 4WD?

4WD, or “four-wheel drive,” is a traditional 4×4 drivetrain. The principle difference between AWD and 4WD is that, while 4WD systems can send power to the front and rear axles, they’re also able to direct a specific amount of power between the left and right wheels. In general, 4WD systems are designed for maximum off-road prowess and are usually built into vehicles with truck-based platforms.

Which Is Better: AWD or 4WD?

Is AWD better than 4WD, or is it the other way around? It depends on your priorities and needs when it comes to a drivetrain. Generally speaking, AWD vehicles are the better option for most city and suburban drivers looking for improved traction in bad weather conditions, such as slick roads that are wet, icy, or covered in snow.

Meanwhile, 4WD vehicles offer a better choice for drivers who travel along off-road conditions or need better utility for a job site or property work, such as on a farm or ranch. If you’re looking for AWD and 4WD vehicles, both will give you improved traction on pavement, gravel, and dirt roads in or near Indianapolis and Frankfort. But both serve different purposes.

Test Drive an AWD or 4WD Vehicle Today!

Delphi drivers will find many new AWD SUVs and pickup trucks here at Lafayette GMC. We also have many in our certified pre-owned inventory. Contact usor call (765) 257-2942 to schedule your test drive today! Look over our new vehicle specials to see if you can save some money on your next purchase.