AWD vs 4WD - What's the Difference?

Ideally, it would be best if you understood all of the different features included in the vehicle you're considering buying or leasing. With so many different things included in the vehicles on the market right now, we anticipate some features being confusing to you. When it comes to all-wheel drive versus four-wheel drive, we'd like to clarify what's different about them. A lot of people assume that they're the same thing, but they actually function differently.

What is All-Wheel Drive?

Powering the front and back tires of a vehicle is possible through the powertrain of an all-wheel drive model. Full-time mode means that the power is being provided at all times, and there is also a part-time mode that your vehicle will use most often. The full-time AWD feature is likely to engage when you're driving on a very slick surface, and your vehicle senses that is needs to kick its traction into high gear. Your vehicle will make any necessary changes for you; you solely focus on driving.

What is Four-Wheel Drive?

Expect the four-wheel drive to be provided in a large vehicle like a full-sized SUV or large truck. Full-time and part-time functions are provided in this instance as well, along with high and low settings. You don't need to control the part-time and full-time modes, but you'll have the ability to select between high and low using a lever accessible while you're driving. We recommend using the low setting when you're looking for a high level of traction on very slick road surfaces. The high setting will be used more often for regular driving or semi-slick conditions.

Reach out to ABC Nissan if you're interested in learning more about the differences that exist between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. We can also show you some of the different vehicles on our lot that come with these options.