All-Wheel Drive vs. Four-Wheel Drive

For a fine selection of Ford vehicles, choose Hall Ford Elizabeth City, a premier Ford dealer serving South Mills, NC and numerous surrounding cities. Many of our Ford vehicles come with either all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), drivetrains which offer superior traction and control in bad weather and/or off-road.

The Difference between AWD and 4WD

One of the biggest differences between 4WD and AWD is weight. 4WD systems are larger and heavier, which is why you'll only find this particular drivetrain on SUVs like the Ford Explorer and pickup trucks like the 2018 Ford F-150. 4WD systems can be also be turned on and off by the driver, whereas virtually every AWD system is "always on", automatically distributing power to the wheels that need it most when driving on slippery roads or in inclement weather.

An AWD system's lightweight, compact structure means it can be integrated into sedan and SUV body styles - for example, the 2017 Ford Fusion and 2017 Ford Explorer. The latter handles like a sedan, and with AWD on-board it also provides excellent traction. Meanwhile, the 2017 Ford Fusion model's AWD system allows it to perform like a svelte, powerful sedan, while still offering superior confidence when driving in snow, rain, or sleet.

Driving Conditions for AWD and 4WD

When you visit our Ford dealership at 1310 North Road Street in Elizabeth City, you can test dive both drivetrains for comparison's sake. Essentially, 4WD is superior in terms of off-roading and towing/hauling.  This system offers better power and control on gravel, rocks, snow, etc., and vehicles equipped with 4WD typically have larger wheels, more durable tires, and a higher ground clearance, all of which are important off-roading factors.

The Ford dealers at Hall Ford Elizabeth City will also explain AWD's advantages. These high-tech systems incorporate sensors that check for wheel-slip and apportion power accordingly, keeping the vehicle on course. In some cases, AWD can also improve a car's performance by powering-up an individual outside wheel during turns, adding even more balance and grip.

For the finest new and used Ford vehicles near Camden, you can't go wrong with our Ford dealership in Elizabeth City. When considering your next automobile purchase, make sure to factor in 4WD vs. AWD. Feel free to contact our Ford dealers any time to discuss the each drivetrain's benefits.