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You’re on the hunt for a new pickup truck or SUV, and you notice that the models on the lot have either an AWD, 4WD, or 4xe system. All three options are designed to ensure that your tires grip the ground no matter the terrain or the weather conditions. Still, there are noticeable differences between them and the impact on your driving experience. Take a closer look at each drivetrain to identify which one is best suited for you and the kind of adventures you want to have on and off the highway.
What Is AWD?
All-wheel drive (AWD) distributes power to the wheels of your vehicle simultaneously to maintain good traction on the road. The system uses sensors to track how much power your wheels are exerting and detects when more power is necessary. While driving a vehicle with AWD, such as the 2024 Dodge Durango , you don’t have to monitor torque. The system will do it for you, ensuring that your ride is smooth and comfortable.
There are two types of AWD: full-time and part-time. Full-time AWD applies force to all four tires at once. Part-time AWD applies force to the front wheels or the rear wheels, but not at the same time. This drivetrain is suitable for your everyday commutes, like when the road is wet and slick from a recent thunderstorm.
What Is 4WD?
Four-wheel (4WD) is also designed to deliver torque to all four wheels at the same time. Unlike AWD, the driver chooses to engage or disengage the system. In other words, you can control how much power you want your tires to exert when you’re behind the wheel.
Like AWD, 4WD has a full-time and part-time version. With full-time, all four wheels are applying force all the time. Part-time 4WD is also known as two-wheel drive (2WD), meaning that only two wheels apply force at once.
A 4WD system is ideal for off-roading. As your heavy-duty truck, such as the 2024 Ram 1500 , trudges through mud, splashes through puddles, or traverses on bumpy roads, you control the power of your tires to gain traction.
What Is 4XE?
Four-wheel electric drive (4xE) works with a combination of an electric drivetrain and a traditional gas engine. Like 4WD, 4xe is compatible with veering off-road across unstable terrain. It also makes long road trips easier because you can rely on the electric motor and the gas in your tank. Plus, the 4xe system is more flexible than AWD and 4WD, allowing you to adjust the system based on the road conditions.
For example, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe model offers three driving modes. The electric mode maximizes torque, the hybrid mode pairs the turbo engine with the electric motor, and the eSave mode saves electric battery power. If you’re wondering how to charge the Jeep 4xe, you can find a charging station near you using a built-in network.
Find Your Ideal Drivetrain at Greensboro CDJR
Whether you’re looking for a large SUV to tow heavy equipment or a new RAM truck for sale, there is a drivetrain that boasts the power and control you need to reach your destination. Visit our dealership today to test out the AWD or 4WD system for yourself. While you’re there, be sure to ask about our models with 4xe, such as the electric Jeep Wrangler , to experience what the hybrid system has to offer.