4WD vs AWD: Which is Right For Your Adventures?

Many adventure rigs send power to all four wheels for maximum traction and capability. Some have four-wheel drive (4WD) and some have all-wheel drive (AWD). While similar, the two are different, and often offer varying levels of inherent capabilities. Let’s look at these two systems. It might help determine which kind of vehicle you want for your adventures, as well as which off road suspension kits you might choose to go with it.

4WD: The Most Capable Off-Road

Most pickup trucks and many SUVs use a 4WD system. This driveline is often part-time requiring the driver to shift from 2WD to 4WD using a lever, switch, or dial. Doing so will engage the transfer case allowing 50% of the power to the rear wheels, and 50% to the front. Plus, many 4WD vehicles offer a two-speed transfer case. This gives them the ability to be in 2WD, 4WD high, or 4WD low (aka low range). Having the ability to go into low range means you can crawl along technical terrain with the most precision.

Four-wheel drive is generally very durable. But many 4WD systems, when engaged, should not be used on dry pavement, as it can damage the system. This is due to a lack of a center differential, which doesn’t allow the front wheels to turn at a different speed than the rears. Of course, there are exceptions. Some vehicles have full-time 4WD that automatically engages, or that have a center differential that can be locked when it’s time to send power 50/50 front and rear. Low range, however, almost always sends power 50/50 front and rear and should not be used on dry pavement.

Examples of 4WD vehicles include the Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner, the full-size Ford Bronco, many Land Rovers, and the majority of mid- and full-size pickups from most manufacturers.

The bottom line: You want a vehicle with 4WD if you’re doing harder off-road trails which require slower speeds and the most control.

AWD: Always-On Performance

All-wheel drive systems are regularly found on cars, crossovers, some SUVs, and even a couple of pickup trucks (such as the Ford Maverick, Honda Ridgeline, and Hyundai Santa Cruz). The nice thing about AWD is it’s always working. There isn’t usually a need to engage it, however, some systems do allow you to turn it off or on to save fuel. Because it can always be on, it is constantly offering optimal grip, including when on icy roads, dirt trails, or rainy streets. Because AWD employs a center differential, it can be used on dry pavement without worry, too.

All-wheel drive vehicles don’t offer a two-speed transfer case, so there’s no low range. Some AWD systems have simulated low range that employs the transmission (often a CVT) to slow the vehicle down. Generally, however, AWD vehicles are not as capable off road as 4WD vehicles, and the systems aren’t as stout.

It should be noted there are a variety of AWD systems depending on the vehicle manufacturer. While most offer the ability to move power from the front wheels to the back, the amount of power sent fore and aft depends. Some vehicles can only have a small percentage of power sent to the rear wheels, while others can send nearly all of it temporarily.

Examples of AWD adventure vehicles include Subaru Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek; Toyota RAV4 and Highlander; Jeep Compass; and countless others from most manufacturers.

The bottom Line: If you’re planning on running dirt roads, sticking to easier trails, or pavement, AWD offers great always-on traction for your adventures.

Which System Is Right For You?

Think about where you plan on going with your 4WD or AWD vehicle. If you’re going to tackle technical trails with big rocks that require slow, careful navigation, a 4WD vehicle may be optimal. If your adventures have you on long dirt tracks and don’t necessitate low range, then AWD can be a great way to go. Ironman 4x4 offers suspension systems for both 4WD vehicles as well as its ATS Lift Kits for AWD rigs.

No matter which you choose, be sure to Tread Lightly! And respect the land, picking up trash, and leaving your adventure route cleaner than you found it.