The terms ‘four-wheel drive’ (4WD), ‘all-wheel drive’ (AWD) and ‘four by four’ (4×4) are often used to mean the same thing, but there are actually some important distinctions. Although you might think you understand what they are, you might be wrong.
What is AWD exactly? What’s the difference between AWD and 4WD? Is there a difference between 4×4 and 4WD? Answers to all your questions are below.
What is 4WD?
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When the engine of a vehicle sends power equally to all four wheels, it is called four-wheel driving (4WD). A transfer case uses the vehicle’s two axles to split the power allowing each wheel to move at the same pace. A 4WD vehicle has increased power, grip and traction, which makes it ideal for towing or driving off-road.
There are 2 states of 4WD.
- The 4L (four-wheel-drive, low-range) is when all four wheels are driven at a low ratio, typically on softer surfaces like sand and mud or when driving steep hills.
- The 4H (four-wheel drive, high range), offers better traction on more firm surfaces, such as gravel roads, dirt roads, and sand that is firmer.
It’s worth noting that even if a vehicle has more than four wheels – such as a six-wheel truck – and…
