All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vs Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) in Oshawa, ON

Car buyers often make the honest mistake of assuming that all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles are the same as four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles. With how similar the wording seems, it’s no surprise that people confuse the difference between these two popular drivetrains. Continue reading below as our team at Fraser Chrysler shed light on the differences between these two drivetrain systems.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Systems

The difference between AWD and 4WD is how each system distributes power to the wheels. All-wheel drive vehicles use a system that automatically transfers power between the front and rear wheels, depending on the road conditions and driving situations. It constantly monitors traction and redirects torque accordingly, delivering a seamless driving experience on both dry and slippery surfaces. Passenger vehicles like the Chrysler 300, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Hornet and Dodge Durango are examples of popular models that can be equipped with all-wheel drive systems.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD or 4x4) Systems

On the other hand, four-wheel drive vehicles are typically equipped with a part-time system. These drivetrains allow the driver to manually engage or disengage the power distribution to all four wheels. Under normal conditions, 4WD vehicles primarily operate in two-wheel drive mode, with power usually directed to the rear-wheels to conserve fuel and reduce wear. When additional traction is needed, the driver can activate 4WD, sending power to all four wheels for improved off-road capability. The Jeep model lineup comes exclusively equipped with various iterations of their legendary 4WD or 4x4 drivetrain systems, while most Ram pickup trucks come equipped with a rear-wheel drive biased 4x4 system that allows owners to electronically-engage all four wheels with a simple twist of a dial.

Fraser Durham Chrysler is your local Oshawa, Ontario Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram dealership. Whether you’re in the market for an all-wheel drive vehicle or a purpose-built four-wheel drive pickup truck or SUV, our friendly & knowledgeable sales professionals are here to help. Stop by our showroom at 799 Bloor Street West and browse through our inventory of available AWD and 4WD vehicles, today!