Kyle’s Corner (FYI) Are 4WD and AWD identical?

January 6, 9:20 AMAutomotive ExaminerKyle Busch

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There are a number of terms used to describe vehicle
drivetrains which include front-wheel drive (FWD),
rear-wheel drive (RWD), part time and full time
four-wheel drive (4WD), and part time and full
time all-wheel drive (AWD).

A front-wheel or rear wheel setup is self explanatory as
most drivers have vehicles with such systems. However,
what about the other drivetrain offerings?

Four-wheel drive vs all-wheel drive can be divided into
maximum off road toughness and durability for the former
(4WD) or smoothness and grip for harsh on-road weather
condition for the latter (AWD).

A four-wheel drive such as the Toyota 4Runner operates
in rear-wheel drive until the driver moves a gearshift into
four-wheel drive. Thus, the vehicle is either in or out of
four-wheel drive.

Some part time all-wheel drive systems let the driver
choose if the vehicle operates in front-wheel drive or
all-wheel drive mode. Such systems are designed for
limited all-wheel drive use.

A full time all-wheel drive system provides power to
all four of a vehicle’s wheels as needed continuously.
Subaru’s Outback and Forester are vehicles equipped
with such a drivetrain system.

With the increased use of electronics, auto manufacturers
will continue to blend the benefits of 4WD and AWD
systems. However, at the moment, these drivetrain terms
are different and the systems are designed for select
driving conditions.

Kyle Busch is the author of “Drive the Best for the Price…” He
welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site:
www.DriveTheBestBook.com.