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What is the difference between all wheel drive and four wheel drive? It’s a common question and one I was too embarrassed to ask decades ago when I bought my first 4×4. So we broke it down in under 90 seconds.
Now, this is just a quick explanation and we could definitely waffle on a lot longer on the differences between all wheel drive and four wheel drive, but this is a simple explanation for those looking for a quick answer. Watch the Short below and scroll on for the basics explained in plain English.
4×4 vs AWD: The quick breakdown
Let’s start with part-time 4WD (aka 4×4). This setup lets you choose between 2WD and 4WD. You control when you need extra traction, usually via a selector switch or gear stick. You’ll simply switch it over into 4×4 mode when you need to. There are actually a number of different 4×4 modes to choose from, but that’s a discussion for another day.
Then there’s AWD, or all-wheel drive. AWD is automatic. Some systems always drive all four wheels, while others are on-demand, kicking in the extra two wheels when they sense slippage. It’s great for wet roads, compacted dirt and gravel roads, but not so great for hardcore trails and serious off-roading.
Full-time 4×4 is similar to AWD in that it always powers all four wheels. The big difference? You can pop it into low-range 4×4 when needed for proper off-road work, and it usually comes with extra gear for 4WDing. Think LandCruisers and Patrols.
So which is better?
It depends. If you’re heading off-road properly, a 4WD (especially one with low range) is still your best mate. But for most on-road driving and slippery conditions, AWD is simple, safe, and smart.
For a simple explanation, check out the full Short above. And if you’ve got a question you’re too afraid to ask – send it our way and we’ll do our best to answer it. No judgement here.
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Um, why didn’t you mention that your Jeep that you are filming shifting into 4H also has on-demand 4WD (4H auto)? It has the option of both Part time 4wd and torque on demand auto 4wd. It’s also arguable that the default setting is 4H auto, not 2H. The whole point of torque on demand is to provide almost instant traction when needed (e.g. in the rain, gravel roads etc, this is the safest setting to leave it in both on and off-road until locking the drive train 50:50 front to rear is required (4H part time or 4L as designated on the jeep transfer lever). The only reason to use 2H is to try and save 50c of fuel per 100K or drop burn outs/ drift/hang the arse out around round-a-bouts!