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WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AWD AND 4WD?
When it comes to describing a vehicle’s drivetrain, the terms all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) are sometimes used interchangeably — and they shouldn’t be. Some believe AWD and 4WD are the same. After all, both systems ensure that power goes to the front and rear axle to provide improved traction in rain or snow and uneven terrain.
Whether you choose a vehicle with AWD or 4WD depends on how the vehicle will be used. If you’re shopping for an SUV and just want some extra confidence and control on the road or light off-road fun, AWD might be the choice for you.
However, if you’re climbing steep hills or sand dunes and taking on rocks and other extreme terrain, then 4WD is the answer.
Mid-Size SUVs like the GMC Acadia offer available AWD, which:
- Allows drivers to activate or deactivate the AWD system depending on weather situations or needs
- Sends power to the front and rear wheels to help optimize traction on dry, wet or snow-covered roads
Large SUVs like the GMC Yukon/Yukon XL equipped with 4WD offer an available Autotrac® 2-speed transfer case with the following settings:
Two-Wheel-Drive High: Use for driving on most streets and highways. The front axle is not engaged. This setting provides the best fuel economy.
Four-Wheel-Drive High: Use this setting when extra traction is needed, such as when driving on snowy or icy roads, when off-roading or when plowing snow.
AUTO (Automatic Four-Wheel Drive): Use when road surface conditions are variable. When driving in AUTO, the front axle is engaged, and the vehicle’s power is sent to the front and rear wheels automatically based on driving conditions. This setting provides slightly lower fuel economy than Two-Wheel-Drive High.
To learn more about which vehicles offer AWD or 4WD, visit https://www.gmc.com/help-me-find/vehicle-lineup.
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