AWD vs 4WD: The Differences Explained

What is 4WD?

4WD vehicles usually come in the form of Utes or larger SUVs, where the system provides torque and traction to all four wheels evenly at the same time. This system, along with a higher and squarer body design, makes 4WD vehicles perfect for off-roading adventures and tackling jobs around the farm or worksite.

Most 4WD systems operate as part-time 4WD sending drive only to the rear wheels when being used on sealed roads. When you require four-wheel drive in part-time 4WDs, you can shift to high ratio 4WD on the move up to certain speeds or for more controlled traction you stop the vehicle and manually engage the low ratio 4WD.

It’s important to note that because these part-time systems might not have a centre differential it is recommended not to drive the vehicle in 4WD on regular tarmac, as this can put stress on the drivetrain.

Full-time 4WD vehicles will have a centre differential to prevent “binding up” when being used on the road. This provides traction benefits of always being in 4WD but will tend to be less economical and can create more tyre wear.

For full-time 4WDs, most vehicles have the option of ‘diff lock’. Commonly used when off-roading to gain maximum traction, this locks up the centre differential and restricts any rotational difference between the front and rear axles.

The benefits of a 4WD are:

• Lower gear traction –Low range slows down the four wheels to maximise both power and traction, and is perfect for climbing steep terrain, pulling the boat out of the water on a slippery boat ramp, and driving over soft sand or muddy paddocks.
• Body engineering –A more robust suspension and higher road clearance will allow you to traverse more challenging obstacles without damaging the vehicle.
• Greater control -The centre differential helps switch the power and torque between the front and rear axle, so the wheels that are on firmer ground can grip more effectively, or lock in place to provide as much grip as possible on all four wheels.

Rear wheel drive and Front wheel drive

Generally utes with part time 4WD are set up as rear wheel drive (RWD) and SUVs are usually front wheel drive (FWD). There are some exceptions like the Suzuki Jimny which is an RWD SUV with design elements like a separate ladder frame, to take on more serious off-roading. Called ALLGRIP PRO (4WD), Suzuki’s 4WD system with reduction gear offers extreme off-road capability.

What is AWD?

The reason that it can be hard to differentiate between 4WD and AWD is because they have similar capabilities, but there are certain features that set them apart.

AWD vehicles are usually more car-like than 4WD vehicles as they use the monocoque body design rather than a full separate chassis. While AWD vehicles do have more off-roading capabilities than a hatchback or sedan, they aren’t usually built with the same kind of ground clearance as a 4WD, which is why they’re often called ‘soft off-roaders’.

With AWD, the system usually sends the drive to the front wheels when in the standard operating or auto mode, and will only engage drive to the rear wheels automatically when necessary for better handling and control. For example, if you’re driving from smooth tarmac onto loose gravel the AWD system will detect if the vehicle is slipping, and provide more grip to the right part of the car. While AWDs do not offer the low ratio gearing for more serious off-roading, an AWD system uses a suite of electronics to maximise the performance of the transmission, engine and safety systems depending on the road surfaces and conditions.

The benefits of an AWD are:

• Automatic traction – Clever technology keeps the vehicle in 2WD mode until the system detects that you need more traction, and automatically provides extra grip where it’s needed. This is perfect for driving through conditions like snow, sand or mud.
• More fuel efficient – With no separate chassis, they are lighter than a 4WD and the SUV body shape is aerodynamic, making them more economical.
• Everyday driveability – An AWD transitions easily from parking and driving around town to more challenging conditions and the suspension settings are more on-road biased than specialised 4WD vehicles so they are more comfortable to travel in.

In Suzuki’s range of AWD SUVS, you’ll find an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system (ALLGRIP SELECT)with selectable driving modes that use a simple push-and-turn dial so you can control the driving style depending on the road surfaces or conditions.

What’s best for me?

When it comes to buying any new vehicle, it’s important to consider all of your driving requirements before committing to an AWD or 4WD vehicle. Take a look at some of these things to keep in mind:

Buy only what you really need – Be realistic about what you need your vehicle to do and narrow your options down to the vehicle which meets those everyday needs.

• If you encounter challenging driving conditions on a regular basis, such as driving up a steep gravel driveway, commuting on icy roads, or towing a caravan, then it would be worth considering a move to an AWD SUV.
• If you need a vehicle that can handle more extreme conditions, and is suitable for going off the beaten track, then a 4WD would be the better option.

Allow for extra cost - 4WD and AWD vehicles are usually more expensive to buy, as well as the cost of maintenance and fuel. The extra power and weight of the systems need more fuel, making them less fuel-efficient than their 2WD counterparts and any use off-road is bound to come with a few scrapes and dings that will need repairing.

Degrees of all-wheel drive capability - Some AWD systems are geared towards better traction and grip on tarseal surfaces during the wet weather, while others with four-modes like the ALLGRIP system are capable of taking you and your SUV on soft-roading adventures, like the beach or muddy tracks.

Size matters - Some smaller 4WDs or AWDs can perform better than larger ones as they have better balance due to short rear overhangs and their steep approach angles with more open space underneath help when clearing obstacles. A lighter vehicle rather than a heavier one uses less power and does less damage to the terrain they are travelling over as they don’t tend to “bog down” like a larger vehicle.

Towing - If you love horses, boats, fishing, camping, or DIY, chances are you need to tow once in a while. Due to their larger size and pulling power, a 4WD or AWD is handy when towing. The larger the vehicle, generally the heavier items you can tow, so choose one with the appropriate braked and non-braked towing capacity

Spare part availability - Choose a 4WD or AWD where spare parts are readily available and don’t need to be imported from overseas. One-off custom auto parts might be nice to have, but can be costly and don’t have the benefit of engineering and market testing from car experts.

Both 4WD and AWD vehicles are able to get you to places you wouldn’t normally be able to access or get you out of a sticky situation, but the differences in the operating system of each one will determine which is best for your lifestyle.

If you need some extra help deciding what’s right for you, take a look at our complete Guide to Buying a New Car below.