With either an all-wheel drive (AWD) or a 4-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle you will enjoy superior handling in all kinds of Minnetonka-area weather and road conditions. So, what’s the difference between AWD vs. 4WD? Is AWD the same as 4WD? Find out which drivetrain will best suit your needs in this 4WD vs. AWD comparison from Motorwerks MINI. Then, visit our dealership in Golden Valley to get behind the wheel of an exciting new AWD MINI Cooper today!
Is AWD the Same as 4WD?
Comparing 4WD vs. AWD in snow, ice, and rain shows that both will boost traction and control. However, there are some key differences between AWD vs. 4WD that you should take note of. Take a look at how each works to find out which is the better fit with your St Louis Park-area driving needs.
What Is AWD?
- All-wheel drive is a type of drivetrain that directs torque from the engine to all four wheels.
- Full-time all-wheel drive is always engaged, whereas part-time AWD systems monitor road conditions and driving behavior to send torque to all wheels only as necessary, in turn promoting efficiency.
- AWD systems are typically found on vehicles with unibody frames.
What is 4WD?
- 4-wheel drive is a traditional 4×4 drivetrain.
- 4WD systems send power to the front and rear axles, as well as direct specific amounts of power between left and right wheels.
- 4WD is typically preferred for off-roading and on truck-based frames.
Which is Better: AWD or 4WD?
So, when comparing 4WD vs. AWD the ultimate question is which is better? It really depends on how you plan to use your vehicle. All-wheel drive will give you enhanced traction on Minneapolis-area roads, while 4-wheel drive is better suited for off-roading.
MINI Cooper ALL4 All-Wheel Drive
The MINI Cooper ALL4 All-Wheel Drive System is designed to give you all the control you need no matter what the weather or road conditions may be. Which MINI Cooper models offer AWD? The ALL4 system is available on MINI Cooper Clubman, MINI Cooper Countryman, and John Cooper Works models.
What is ALL4? The MINI Cooper ALL4 system can detect when there is a loss of traction and will redistribute power as needed between the front and rear axles. Comparing AWD vs. 4WD in snow, ice, and rain shows that both drivetrains can provide the traction you need, but with ALL4 the system automatically adjusts to give you the traction required to keep you in control. When all-wheel drive is not needed, ALL4 will switch to rear-wheel drive, which will help you maintain better fuel efficiency when cruising Golden Valley streets.
Explore the MINI Cooper ALL4 Models at Motorwerks MINI
Is AWD the same as 4WD? Our 4WD vs. AWD comparison shows that while both are similar, there are some key differences that you should consider upfront. If you’d like to experience what the MINI Cooper ALL4 system has to offer, stop by our Golden Valley dealership to test drive an AWD MINI Cooper today. In the meantime, make sure to browse our new vehicle specials to get the best deal possible on a new MINI Cooper, and please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
