AWD vs. 4WD: What’s the Difference?

What’s the difference between AWD (all-wheel drive) and 4WD (four-wheel drive)? Is AWD the same as 4WD? These two drivetrains operate similarly, but they’re different overall. Is AWD better than 4WD for your Coon Rapids drives? Take a deeper look at how these two drivetrains operate with the service center at Morries Forest Lake Chevrolet!

AWD vs. 4WD: All-Wheel Drive

AWD (all-wheel drive) directs torque from the engine to the front and rear axles of your car. The power is sent to all four of your car’s wheels through differentials, and there are actually two different kinds of AWD systems: full-time AWD and part-time AWD. Here’s how the two systems work: 

• Full-Time AWD: This system sends torque to the front and rear axles at all times. 
• Part-Time AWD: This system monitors the conditions of the roads of St Paul as well as our own driving patterns. Then, the system decides when to send torque to the front axle only. 

So, is AWD the same as 4WD? They both have similar functions, but 4WD has a slightly different purpose than AWD. 

AWD vs. 4WD: Four-Wheel Drive

4WD (four-wheel drive) operates on a similar level as AWD in the sense that 4WD sends power to the front and rear axles. So, what’s the difference between AWD and 4WD? 4WD is able to determine how much power it sends to the left and right wheels, and it can send different levels of power to each wheel individually. 4WD systems are usually preferred by Minneapolis drivers who want to take their Chevy vehicle off the road or need something that can do a lot of heavy-duty towing and hauling. 

Which is better: AWD or 4WD? Let’s take a look at both drivetrains below. 

Is AWD Better Than 4WD? 

The system that’s better for you is the system that best serves your driving needs. Take a look at the benefits of both options:

• AWD: AWD is usually better for everyday drivers who need a little more traction in rougher weather or rougher road conditions. 

• 4WD: When drivers need something that can help them drive with more control on off-road terrains or job sites, they usually opt for 4WD. 

So, which is better: AWD or 4WD? To see which option is better for you, visit Morries Forest Lake Chevrolet to take a test drive of any of our heavy-duty Chevy models!

Which Is Better: AWD or 4WD? Find Out in Forest Lake!

Now that you know what the difference is between AWD and 4WD, you’re invited to visit our dealership and figure out which of our Chevy models is the right fit for your driving needs! Contact us to explore our inventory, see which of our models stands out to you, and get behind the wheel for a test drive to see how it would feel on your daily commute.