What is the difference between AWD and 4x4?

What’s the difference between a 4x4 and AWD. Which is better?

Asif Iqbal, Hubli

Autocar India says: The primary difference between a 4x4 and an all-wheel drive (AWD) system lies in the way they distribute power to the wheels. While a 4x4 SUV runs in rear-wheel-drive or 2WD mode by default and comes equipped with a transfer case to divide power between the front and rear axles, an AWD system automatically distributes power between the two axles using a central differential.

A 4x4 system gets multiple modes—2WD, 4WD High and 4WD Low—by virtue of the high- and low-ratio gears present in the transfer case, and requires the driver to manually engage either of them using a switch or lever. On the contrary, an AWD system uses a viscous coupling or a multi-plate clutch in the centre differential, and constantly monitors wheel traction by using sensors to automatically adjust power depending on wheel slip.

Furthermore, a 4x4 system also gets optional locking differentials to transmit power equally to both wheels on the same axle for combating extremely tough situations, whereas an AWD system uses open differentials with electronic controls for power distribution.

Therefore, with its significantly more capable hardware and manual control, a 4x4 offers usability even in extreme off-road conditions, while an AWD system, with its continuous power variation between the front and rear axles, is more suitable for moderate off-road scenarios, as well as for gaining better traction on the road. Making a choice between the two boils down to the specific use case one might have.

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