Finding the best vehicle suitable for snow and ice can be an arduous task. With drivers flocking to car sellers at the most snow ridden time of the year, many of them are taking a closer look at cars that work best under extreme climatic conditions. The choice becomes more complex, especially when you have to choose between AWD and 4WD. Learning some information about both of the drivetrain configurations can help you make a choice quickly.
Winter driving can serve as a real challenge. If you live in a snow-laden part of the country, you need a vehicle that can manage being driven on many layers of snow and in harsh weather conditions. When the weather changes to treacherous, all you need at your rescue is a safe vehicle that can help you travel from one place to another.
What makes up a suitable winter ride? We've found out it's either an all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive system that provides superior grip in slippery conditions. But the main trick lies in choosing the right one for you. So which is better for driving in snow, AWD or 4WD? We've listed down some information about both of them below, which will help you make your choice. So keep reading!
How Does Awd Work?
All-wheel drive is specialised for on-road use. It has the capacity to send the engine's power to all four tyres at the same time. It will help you move your car better on snow or rain-laden roads. Additionally, it can provide maximum forward traction during acceleration. It generally functions with no input from the driver, but some models allow it to decide how much power goes where. Two types of drivetrain come under it:
Part-time all-wheel drive-In this, part-time AWD sends torque to either front or rear wheels, depending on the type and make of the model.
Full-time all-wheel drive- In this kind of drive train, they use all four wheels continuously. In slippery conditions, they help in providing extra grip.
How Does 4wd Work?
Although 4WD and AWD are sometimes used interchangeably in advertisements, they still vary in some aspects. Just like its name suggests, it powers all of the four wheels. This system is majorly found in big SUVs and large trucks. The typical picture of a 4WD that comes to mind is a truck with a shielded underbody, tow hooks, big tyres and high ground clearance.
Primarily it is used for severe off-roading conditions such as low traction surfaces, climbing over boulders, forging deep water etc. Furthermore, most 4WD systems use heavy-duty transfer cases, both with low and high gear range. This also has two types:
Full-time four-wheel drive- This type sends power to all four tyres at all times, just like AWD. In some selected models, the driver may choose to control how power is divided to the front and rear axle through some modes.
Part-time four-wheel drive- Part-time four-wheel drive sends power to two of the wheels. This is often found in SUVs and trucks that are often designed to drive in extreme conditions, and two wheels majorly drive the vehicle.
What are Awd Pros and Cons?
Below We have listed AWD pros and cons;
Pros
The driver doesn't have to make any guesses while driving. Either the system itself is designed to be aware of a loss of traction and send power accordingly, or all the wheels are being driven full time.
You have a wide variety of options as AWD is available, from compact sedans to all sizes of SUVs.
Cons
Not is an ideal choice for an offroader who wants to go to the extreme end.
Decreases fuel economy.
Raises the cost of the vehicle.
What are 4wd Pros and Cons?
Below we have listed 4WD pros and cons ;
Pros
Good at handling bizarre conditions.
Being designed for challenging conditions and maximum pulling power, they can both play and work in rugged terrains.
Nowadays, its model of vehicles is coming in highly refined quality.
Cons
It harms fuel economy.
Causes a rise in the cost of the vehicle.
Which One Has an Upper Hand In Snow, AWD OR 4WD?
With cold weather comes rapid changing of roads surfaces, which become slippery due to snow and ice. The choice depends more on the vehicle rather than the drivetrain. All-wheel drive system automatically engages torque to all four wheels when needed. This is why it's best for driving on icy and snowy roads.
On the other hand, a four-wheel-drive system is a better option for driving in deeper snow. But it depends more on which area you are residing in and what is your personal preference. If you are hunting for a truck for moving around and hauling things through deep snow, then 4WD can be a better choice. But if you reside in a city where the roads are often ploughed, and you need a vehicle for joy rides, AWD can be the ideal choice.
We have garnered all the information regarding both technologies and listed their perks and flaws. At last, it also depends on your choice and pocket which one to go for. If you happen to reside in Australia and wish to get help from an authentic agency, then you can visit Just Jeep Auto Wreckers.
Why Buy Your AWD or 4WD From Just Jeep Auto Wreckers?
Finding a suitable AWD or 4WD for your car can be tricky. So for any assistance, you can contact the experts at Just Jeep Auto Wreckers. We have been serving the automation industry for more than 30 years, and therefore you can rely on our advice for your product.
We are knowledgeable about the products we deliver. Each of your queries will be answered here. Topmost, we don't compromise with our quality. We offer both an online store and an offline store in Australia. Therefore the answer to your question, which is better for driving in snow AWD or 4WD, can be found here at Just Jeeps. For more information, you can visit our website also!