What Is the Difference Between 4WD and AWD?

If you listen to people with English accents, you’ll hear them talk about a car with all-wheel drive (AWD) as having four-wheel drive (4WD). But why do we here in America say cars have all-wheel drive and then say trucks and SUVs have four-wheel drive? Is an Altima with Nissan Intelligent AWD the same as an Armada with Intelligent 4WD? Well, no, there are some nuanced differences.  

Are there any Similarities Between the Two? 

Regardless of any differences that we will get to, the similarities are that a Nissan car or crossover with AWD and Nissan truck or SUV with 4WD allow a vehicle to get traction to all four wheels to assist drivability and grip in less-than-ideal weather conditions and off-road surfaces. However, how they do that is where the similarities end.  

What Is 4WD? 

Four-wheel drive is sometimes referred to as 4×4 on the sides of trucks or other vehicles. A vehicle with four-wheel drive sends an equal amount of power to all wheels at the same time without using any fancy electronics. It does this by using a transfer case that allows you, the driver, to select between 4Hi or 4Lo, as basically determined by the speed you’re traveling. So, if you are driving down the road in snow, you’ll want 4Hi, while if you are going off-roading and driving slowly, then obviously you’ll select 4Lo. At this point all of the power is being pushed to the front and rear differentials equally.  

What Is AWD? 

An all-wheel drive vehicle has a center differential that routes power appropriately and uses electronic know-how to figure out where the power will be most effective. Lots of AWD cars, such as small crossovers, are based on front-wheel drive (FWD) setups and actually start out pushing most or all of the power to the front wheels until the system detects that the front wheels are slipping and then throws equal or more power to the rear wheels to help ensure the car won’t get stuck. This is done without the driver having any involvement; the driver doesn’t make a decision regarding the power and traction.  

Should I Drive My Nissan Differently? 

Because AWD vehicles have electronics that know what’s going on at all times and send power back and forth accordingly, you don’t need to worry about anything. A 4WD vehicle has a standard two-wheel-drive mode that should be used in normal, everyday driving conditions, unless of course your commute takes you off-road or the roads become treacherous.  

Come on by and See the Differences for Yourself 

You should stop by Dick Smith Nissan of Lexington and take a look at the numerous offerings with all- and four-wheel drive from the Nissan brand. Whether you need a crossover, truck, or car, there are plenty of models that will fit your budget and needs.  

Why Choose Dick Smith Nissan of Lexington  

At Dick Smith Nissan of Lexington, we believe our customers deserve the best prices and services. With over 100 new and used vehicles to choose from, our outstanding sales team and finance department will work hard to make sure you drive away happy. Our fantastic service department will take care of your new-to-you vehicle as if it were their own.