AWD vs. 4WD – What’s the Difference?

Vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive are becoming more and more popular. But what is the difference between AWD and 4WD? Is AWD better than 4WD? Which is better suited to handle the Crawfordville roads? To help you tell the difference and to see which is right for you, we’ve put together a detailed AWD vs. 4WD comparison below.

What is the Difference Between AWD and 4WD?

So, what is the difference between AWD and 4WD, exactly? It has to do with how power is distributed to the wheels. Both types of drivetrains distribute power to all four wheels, allowing for better control. But there is a difference is in how that power is distributed:

AWD vs. 4WD – Power Distribution

  • Full-time AWD – Power is sent to all four wheels all the time
  • Part-time AWD – Power is sent to front or rear axle as needed
  • 4WD – Power can be sent to the front or rear axle but can also be sent to the driver or passenger side

AWD vs. 4WD – Going Off Road

Is AWD better than 4WD for off-roading? Which is designed for handling rough terrain and keeping a vehicle from getting stuck in an off-trail rut? 4-wheel drivetrains produce the kind of versatility you need off-road. If one wheel starts to spin, it’s not a problem. A 4WD vehicle can divert power to one side or the other.

AWD vs. 4WD – Rough Driving Conditions

Is AWD better than 4WD for harsh road conditions? Which is better for navigating Quincy roads in the rain, AWD or 4WD? All-wheel drive is especially well-suited for these kinds of conditions. The typical all-wheel drivetrain can sense which wheels are losing traction and divert power to the front or rear axle accordingly, providing more control for the driver.

Check Out AWD and 4WD Vehicles at Dale Earnhardt Jr. Chevrolet

Are you ready to get behind the wheel of your next AWD or 4WD vehicle? Dale Earnhardt Jr. Chevrolet has helped lots of customers just like you from Havana and beyond to find the vehicle that’s just right for them. You can start today by filling out our online finance application. Feel free to contact us today!

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Hendrick Vehicle Disclaimer:
$989.00 Predelivery Service Charge included in advertised price; this charge represents costs and profit to the dealer for items such as inspecting, cleaning, and adjusting vehicles, and preparing documents related to the sale.

All prices exclude all taxes, tag, title, registration fees and government fees. Out of state buyers are responsible for all taxes and government fees and title/registration fees in the state where the vehicle will be registered. All prices include all manufacturer to dealer incentives, which the dealer retains unless otherwise specifically provided. Dealer not responsible for errors and omissions; all offers subject to change without notice; please confirm listings with dealer.

All vehicles may not be physically located at this dealership but may be available for delivery through this location. Transportation charges may apply. Please contact the dealership for more specific information. All vehicles are subject to prior sale.

Additional Disclaimers:
*0% APR for 48 months for well-qualified buyers when financed w/GM Financial. Monthly payment is $20.83 for every $1000 you finance. Average down payment is 18%. Some customers will not qualify. Take new retail delivery by 06-02-2025. **Well-qualified customers who purchase a new, used, or certified pre-owned vehicle, 4 model years or newer with less than 60K miles between May 1 2025 and May 31, 2025, and finance through a participating dealer and lender have the option to defer monthly payments for 90 days from contract date. Finance charges begin to accrue on the date you sign the Retail Installment Sale Contract at the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) disclosed in the contract. May not be combined with other preferred lender financing offers. 72 months maximum term limit. Equal monthly payments only. Not available to Pennsylvania residents; see your dealer for details. Must take retail delivery by May 31, 2025. See dealer for complete down payment and interest rate options and details.

*1.9% APR for 36 months. Finance charges accrue from date of financing. Deferred monthly payments for 90 days. Monthly payment is $28.60 for every $1,000 you finance. Example down payment: 18.5%. Must finance with GM Financial. Not available in PA. Some customers may not qualify. Not available with lease and some other offers. Take new retail delivery 6/2/2025.

*0% APR for 48 months for well-qualified buyers when financed w/GM Financial. Monthly payment is $20.83 for every $1000 you finance. Average down payment is 18%. Some customers will not qualify. Take new retail delivery by 06-02-2025. **Well-qualified customers who purchase a new, used, or certified pre-owned vehicle, 4 model years or newer with less than 60K miles between May 1 2025 and May 31, 2025, and finance through a participating dealer and lender have the option to defer monthly payments for 90 days from contract date. Finance charges begin to accrue on the date you sign the Retail Installment Sale Contract at the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) disclosed in the contract. May not be combined with other preferred lender financing offers. 72 months maximum term limit. Equal monthly payments only. Not available to Pennsylvania residents; see your dealer for details. Must take retail delivery by May 31, 2025. See dealer for complete down payment and interest rate options and details.

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