During your search for a new vehicle, you may come across options with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). And you might wonder, is AWD the same as 4WD? In short, no. These drivetrain systems are similar in that they both allow all four wheels to spin when you need more traction on the Bethel Park roads, but they’re not the same. Then, what is the difference between AWD and 4WD? Learn more below, and determine whether AWD or 4WD is more appropriate for your driving experience in Canonsburg.
Spitzer Acura has many new Acura vehicles with AWD, but you can also find some 4WD options from a variety of manufacturers in our used vehicle inventory. Learn the difference between AWD and 4WD below.
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 Acura MDX and the Acura RDX.
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 simultaneously, 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.
Is AWD better than 4WD, or is it the other way around? The truth is that it depends on your priorities and driving habits. In general, AWD vehicles prove to be the best option for most suburban drivers in the Pittsburgh area looking for extra traction in inclement weather and poor road conditions, while 4WD vehicles prove a better choice for those seeking the most rugged off-road conditions or truck utility for a job.
Now that you’ve learned more about AWD and 4WD, do you know which one suits you best? We’ll be happy to help you find an equipped vehicle in our inventory, whether it’s a premium new Acura with AWD or a quality used 4WD vehicle. Either way, your vehicle will be protected by the Spitzer Shield! We hope to see you soon at Spitzer Acura in McMurray.
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