AWD vs. 4WD: Which To Choose When Buying a Vehicle

When it comes time to buy your next vehicle, there are many factors to consider when shopping in today’s market. Should you buy used or new? Which make and model is going to be best for your lifestyle? Once you’ve narrowed down your choices for which vehicle you want to buy, you’ll be prompted with one more decision – all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. 

While all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive may sound similar, there are a few key differences between the two. The terms “all-wheel drive” and “four-wheel drive” refer to the way your vehicle’s wheels make contact with the road. This decision will be based on your driving habits, lifestyle, and needs, but both all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive provide great benefits to the driver. If you have questions about the best vehicle for you, contact our service team in Sumter!

What is AWD?

All-wheel drive, often referred to as AWD, is a drivetrain system engineered for on-road use. When you’re on the road, each wheel gains traction independently, but all-wheel drive sends engine torque to all four wheels simultaneously. This benefits the driver greatly for regular commutes or traveling in potentially dangerous road conditions. 

All-wheel drive helps provide a more stable base for SUVs and crossovers carrying many passengers and cargo and keeping the vehicle planted on the road. Generally, AWD kicks in without input from the driver, but some models offer a selectable mode that gives the driver some control over how much power goes to which wheel.

Some newer vehicles even offer a part-time AWD system, which allows the engine to send torque to two wheels, either the front or the rear, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. This system will then automatically engage the other two wheels when road conditions demand extra traction. 

What is 4WD?

Four-wheel drive, also known as four by four or 4x4x, refers to a part-time drivetrain system designed for off-road driving and increased safety on rugged terrains. More often found in pick-up trucks and large SUVs, four-wheel drive allows drivers to get all the power to all four wheels at once as the front and rear axles lock together to give all four-wheels equal power. 

In most cases, drivers will have to shift into four-wheel drive in conditions where one or more tires could lose traction. The drivetrain system works with the engine to send torque to all four wheels to help drivers get up a steep hill, get over rocky terrain, or through a muddy pit down one’s favorite backroads. 

Which Drivetrain Should You Choose: AWD or 4WD?

After weighing your options, which drivetrain system is best for your lifestyle? If you’re a commuter, a regular traveler, or spend a lot of time driving back and forth around town no matter the weather, all-wheel drive can help provide more flexibility in various driving conditions and better fuel efficiency. All-wheel drive systems turn on and off automatically, keeping your eyes focused on the road. If you’re anticipating winter full of snow and ice, all-wheel drive may be a great option for you!

Four-wheel drive typically requires the driver to engage and disengage the system, but if you tackle tough terrains and anticipate going off-road often, four-wheel drive will be the better option. In addition to being a great accessory for off-road adventures, four-wheel drive can also improve your towing capacity!

Four-wheel drive comes in handy when:

• You need extra torque when pulling heavy loads at slow speeds
• You descend at a slow speed with a healthy load in tow
• You are going over steep inclines and declines
• You are stuck in mud, snow, ice, or sand

Whichever drivetrain system option is best for you, our Sumter team is here to help you find your next best ride!

Questions? Contact Your Local Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Dealer in Sumter! 

Choosing your next new or certified pre-owned vehicle can be a difficult decision to make. That’s why our team at Sumter Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is here to help! We want to make sure your car-buying process is stress-free, and with our huge selection of new vehicles in Sumter, we’ll find the right one for you.

We have the most popular current models available, like the Jeep Compass, Jeep Gladiator, Dodge Charger, Ram 1500, and more waiting for you to test drive. If you’re looking for a great deal on a certified pre-owned vehicle driven only by one owner, we have plenty of those, too! Our team is conveniently located in Sumter, SC, near Manning, Columbia, and Camden County. Find your next ride and come see us for a test drive today! 

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