What's the Difference Between AWD & 4WD?

With a lineup of sedans and crossovers available with all-wheel drive and the Escalade SUV available with four-wheel drive, Heiser Cadillac offers a large selection of foul-weather vehicles to choose from for your Menomonee Falls commute and longer drives past the Port Washington area. But is AWD and 4WD the same? While both systems are capable of sending power to all four wheels, they’re not the same. Compare the difference between AWD and 4WD in this guide from the team at Heiser Cadillac.

Is AWD and 4WD the Same?

What is AWD?

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 chassis, like the Cadillac XT6.

What is 4WD?

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, 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, like the Cadillac Escalade.

Which is Better: AWD or 4WD?

Is AWD better than 4WD, or is it the other way around? The truth is that it depends on your priorities and Hartford driving needs. In general, AWD vehicles usually prove to be the best option for most suburban 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 their Grafton jobs. Either way, AWD or 4WD models will give you extra capability you can’t find in FWD or RWD vehicles!

Find Your Next AWD or 4WD Model at Heiser Cadillac

Now that we’ve answered your question: ”Is AWD and 4WD the same?”, it’s time to explore our new, certified pre-owned, and pre-owned inventory of AWD and 4WD vehicles. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with our AWD and 4WD models to ensure you find the best configuration for your needs. Save time when you get pre-approved for financing online. Be sure to ask about our new vehicle specials and pre-owned vehicle specials in West Bend.