What's the difference between AWD and 4×4?
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What is the difference between an AWD (all wheel drive) and a 4×4 suv? what about 4 wheel drive (4wd)
Tags: 4x4 SUV, awd, wheel, wheel drive 4wd
4 Responses to “What's the difference between AWD and 4×4?”
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AWD (All Wheel Drive) means that all 4 wheels get power to them at all times. Basically it’s permanent 4WD.
4X4 or 4WD (4 Wheel Drive) is where you can put the car or truck in either 4WD or 2WD.
In other words a 4X4 you get to choose when to use 4WD. In AWD you don’t.
AWD does not have a transfer case thus no low range gearing. AWD always has some sort of center differential set up. Many AWD systems have a viscous clutch or electronic means of engaging the second axle, ie under normal conditions are really only 2 wheels are driven until slippage is detected. Because of the lack of transfer case AWD is lighter, more fuel efficient and better suited for on road use.
4WD may or may not have a center differential, usually has low range. 4WD is usually driver engaged.
Dave has it right
two drive drive. just has limited slip on both axles. one spins, applies power to the other. yes a little better then a four wheel drive for hiway use. off road no.