AWD vs. 4WD

With the full lineup of used AWD vehicles for sale near Marietta at Atlanta Autos, you may find yourself wondering if AWD is the same as 4WD. You may even be wondering, is AWD better than 4WD? The short answer is: No. The long answer is: It’s complicated. 

So what is the difference between AWD and 4WD, and which is the better option for you? Find out if AWD or 4WD is the better option for your Atlanta drives below. Then, check out all the SUVs and crossovers for sale at our dealership in Marietta!

What is AWD?

So, what’s the major AWD vs. 4WD difference? 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. There are a couple of different kinds of AWD systems, including 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, while part-time AWD systems can 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, like the Cadillac Escalade.

What is 4WD?

4WD, or “four-wheel drive,” is a traditional 4×4 drivetrain. The principle difference between 4WD vs. AWD 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, such as the Toyota Tacoma.

Which is Better: AWD or 4WD?

Is AWD better than 4WD? Is AWD the same as 4WD? The truth is that it depends on your priorities and needs. In general, AWD vehicles usually prove to be the best option for most suburban Smyrna drivers looking for extra traction in inclement weather and bad weather conditions, while 4WD vehicles prove a better choice for those seeking the most rugged off-road conditions or onsite truck utility for a job.

Explore the AWD & 4WD SUVs at Atlanta Autos!

Among our inventory of pre-owned vehicles for sale, Marietta drivers will find plenty of AWD SUVs, but we also have quite a few 4WD SUVs for sale in our used inventory. Contact us online to schedule your test drive today! Our team members won’t rest until we match you with an SUV or crossover that’s right for you and your family!