Should You Buy a Vehicle with All-Wheel Drive?
Should You Buy a Vehicle with All-Wheel Drive?
Posted on June 23, 2020
AWD drive systems are can be a great addition to any vehicle. They the driver to maintain control of the vehicle while driving over various types of terrain. In order to help you better understand the pros and cons of an AWD drive system, let us take an in-depth look at what a 4WD system is and when it can be beneficial.
2WD vs 4WD vs AWD: What is the Difference?
2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive refers to how many wheels on the vehicles are receiving power. If the vehicle has only a 2-wheel driving system, it will have either a front-wheel driving (FWD) system or a rear-wheel driving (RWD) system.
FWD vehicles allow the driver to have more control and are better able to drive over rough terrain and climb steep hills. RWD vehicles are commonly found on heavy-duty trucks and are best suited for drivers who plan on hauling heavy loads with their vehicles.
4-wheel driving systems and all-wheel driving systems are pretty much the same things. With these systems, power is being evenly distributed to all four wheels and gives you the advantage of a front-wheel-drive system and a rear-wheel driving system. However, 4WD systems are usually designed to handle rough terrain other off-road conditions with a little more ease than an AWD system.
What are the Benefits if an AWD and 4WD?
In addition to effortlessly climbing over rough and steep terrain, AWD/4WD vehicles are usually preferred when driving through snowy and icy conditions. Because power is distributed to all four tires, each wheel is able to gain traction and is less likely to skid and slide across the slippery road.
Many SUVs and pickup trucks have the option to switch between 2WD and 4WD. When driving on a paved road on a sunny or rainy day, 2WD will be your best option. However, if you feel like taking your vehicle off of the paved path, or wintery conditions get too intense, 4WD or AWD are the best t driving systems to help you navigate your way through the rough and slippery terrain
Should You Buy a Vehicle with All-Wheel Drive?
This is one of the most-asked questions that we get at our dealership. Most drivers understand that a 2WD vehicle will suffice during the summer. However, during the brutal Canadian winter, the roads can quickly turn into a slippery and dangerous place.
If you plan to drive in an area that sees a lot of snowfall in the winter, then it is recommended that you have a vehicle that is able to switch to an all-wheel driving system as needed.
But it is also important to remember that just because you have a 4WD or an AWD system does not mean that your vehicle is invisible from off-roading mishaps. The AWD system will provide you with better traction. However, it does not mean that your vehicle will not slip and slide.
If you have any questions about which driving system is right for you, feel free to contact us today.