ALL WHEEL DRIVE VS 4WD: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE & WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

August 29, 2025

AWD VS 4WD? LET’S BREAK IT DOWN

You’re eyeing that rugged SUV or sleek crossover, dreaming of beachside drives, mountain trails, or just a safer school run, and the spec sheet says “AWD” or “4WD.” But what does that actually mean? These features are all about how your vehicle sends power to the wheels, and they make a huge difference in how your car handles, especially in rough terrain or unpredictable weather.

Before you hit the road (or the sand), let’s take a closer look at what you need to know about how your car handles power, terrain, and tricky conditions. As a one-stop car dealership, the team at Automall West have the inside information you need to help you make the right choice.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AWD AND 4WD?

Both AWD (All Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four Wheel Drive) systems send engine power to all four wheels. But they’re built differently and serve different purposes.

An AWD is commonly found in cars and crossovers. Crossovers, such as Honda ZR-V, Subaru Forester and MG ZS, are a type of SUV built on a car’s unibody platform for a smoother ride and better fuel economy than traditional, truck-based SUVs. The AWD works automatically, adjusting power between wheels based on traction. This makes it ideal for everyday driving, particularly in slippery conditions like rain, hail and even light snow.

4WD, on the other hand, is typically used in larger SUVs and utes (also known as pickup trucks). It’s designed for tougher tasks and uneven terrain, giving the driver manual control to engage or disengage the system as needed. That makes it better suited for off-roading and challenging environments.

WHICH PERFORMS BETTER IN EVERYDAY CONDITIONS?

On regular roads, whether it’s your daily commute, a wet highway, or a winding suburban street, AWD tends to be more seamless. It’s smooth, consistent, and doesn’t require any thought from the driver. You’re getting better fuel efficiency, easier handling, and added grip when the roads get slick.

In contrast, 4WD really shines in rugged scenarios. Think gravel roads, steep hills, and muddy tracks. It offers superior pulling power, extra durability, and the kind of off-road capability weekend adventurers crave. Just be aware, the additional power required usually comes at the cost of fuel economy.

HOW AWD VS 4WD SYSTEMS WORK

Mechanically, these two systems use different approaches to get the job done.

AWD vehicles use a centre differential to automatically distribute power between the front and rear axles. This allows the wheels to turn at different speeds, which is important for smooth cornering and responsive traction. Depending on the setup, this can be full-time AWD or part-time AWD that engages when needed.

4WD systems use a transfer case to split power between axles and usually lock the front and rear axles together for consistent grip. Some 4WD vehicles come equipped with low-range gearing, which adds torque for climbing over rocks, crawling through deep mud, or navigating tricky trails.

4WD VS ALL WHEEL DRIVE: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Choosing between AWD and 4WD often comes down to how and where you drive.

If your lifestyle involves exploring nature, towing a trailer, or venturing off the beaten path, 4WD is your go-to. It provides confidence in tough conditions and is built to handle extreme scenarios.

If you’re looking for comfortable peace of mind during your weekday drives, an AWD offers reliable traction and a hands-free experience. You won’t have to think about switching modes or settings; it simply works.

4 WHEEL DRIVE VS ALL WHEEL DRIVE PROS & CONS

	Pros	Cons
AWD	Always active or automatically engaged Perfect for wet roads and light snow Low maintenance and user-friendly	Less capable for serious off-road use Repairs can be costly due to system complexity
4WD	Built for off-road and heavy-duty use Handles extreme terrain with ease Offers selectable modes like low range for added control	Usually less fuel efficient Can feel rough or excessive on dry pavement Requires manual engagement and driver awareness

AWD VS 4WD & YOUR DRIVING STYLE

Still unsure which one suits you best? Think about:

Where you drive most often
Whether you face wet, unsealed roads, or hills regularly
If you’ll be towing or carrying heavy loads
Whether you prefer low-maintenance convenience or like to take the wheel on decisions

AWD vehicles are generally better for city and suburban life, with their smart handling of unexpected situations. Many offer the traction benefits of a 4WD without any extra effort. Some even start in two-wheel drive and engage AWD only when needed.

Meanwhile, 4WDs often start in two-wheel drive mode as well, giving drivers the option to engage four wheels when needed for improved traction. They’re engineered with durability in mind, especially their four wheel drive systems and more rugged underbodies.

UNDER THE HOOD: WHAT IT MEANS FOR OWNERSHIP

AWD vehicles use advanced electronics and sensors to manage power automatically, making driving effortless, but repairs are more specialised and costly.

Four wheel drive systems are usually more mechanical and simpler, easier to maintain or modify, but they require regular upkeep, especially on parts like the transfer case and rear wheels.

Many 4WDs operate in two wheel drive by default and let you switch between high range and low range for different conditions. This gives you control, but also means you need to know when to engage each mode to avoid damage.

If you prefer low-maintenance, hands-off driving, AWD is ideal.

If you like control and don’t mind the extra care required, 4WD offers flexibility and durability. Regardless of which you pick, Automall West offers quality vehicle servicing for both types.

HOW AWD SYSTEMS WORK SMARTER

It’s not just about raw strength; it’s about how that strength is managed. That’s where part-time AWD makes a difference. Unlike full-time AWD systems, it only engages all wheels when needed, keeping your two-wheel drive vehicle efficient during light driving on paved roads.

But when driving conditions shift, like sudden rain or loose gravel, these systems react fast, using the engine’s torque to deliver more power to the wheels that need it. That means better grip and control on road, without wasting energy when extra traction isn’t necessary.

LOOKING FOR ALL WHEEL DRIVE VS 4WD VEHICLES IN BRISBANE?

With such a great selection of AWD and 4WD systems to choose from for weekend getaways or day-to-day driving, Automall West has the vehicle for you. We offer a broad selection of new vehicles, SUVs, utes, and crossovers, with everything from AWD for comfort to 4WD for capability.

Our relaxed, pressure-free showroom inside Indooroopilly Shopping Centre makes it easy to compare models, chat with experts, and test drive your top picks—all in one convenient spot.

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