AWD vs. 4WD vs. 2WD: Our Complete Guide to These Drivetrains

When purchasing a new vehicle, there are many crucial factors to consider. One of the most significant of these is the drivetrain, as it can affect the car’s overall performance and capabilities, particularly as you choose a vehicle based on your lifestyle and driving habits. 

You have an option for three types of drivetrains: all-wheel drive (AWD), two-wheel drive (2WD), and four-wheel drive (4WD). These drivetrains tell you how the engine distributes power among the four wheels on your vehicle. Each of these options provides unique advantages, making it important to take the time to research them carefully before making a decision. 

Keep reading to learn more about the differences among these drivetrains!

What Is All-Wheel Drive (AWD)?

As the name suggests, all-wheel drive (AWD) distributes power from the engine to all four wheels. AWD is categorized into two types: full-time AWD and part-time AWD. Full-time AWD continually distributes power to all wheels regardless of driving conditions. On the other hand, part-time AWD (or automatic AWD) mainly operates in a two-wheel drive mode, but power can be transferred to all four wheels when needed, such as in slippery or hilly terrain. 

Benefits of AWD

One of the primary benefits of AWD over 4WD is that drivers do not have to switch between two-wheel drive and AWD manually. The car’s computer assesses driving and road conditions and makes the appropriate decision.

Another major benefit of AWD is that this type of powertrain is better at handling during challenging conditions. If you drive in any of these conditions, AWD can come through with better traction:

• Loose gravel
• Dirt
• Mud
• Snow
• Ice
• Rain-covered pavement

AWD puts less strain on the brakes because the vehicle’s computer can automatically supply or take away power to the wheels when needed.

Peace of mind is perhaps the most important advantage of AWD. You still need to drive safely with AWD.  However, you’ll have confidence knowing that your AWD powertrain can help when conditions turn challenging. If you’re driving on dry pavement, you can use 2WD without any difficulties.

Drawbacks of AWD

One drawback of AWD is that it costs more versus a comparably equipped 2WD vehicle. However, the benefits of peace of mind and better handling can outweigh the drawbacks. If you calculate that an AWD vehicle is around $2,000 to $3,000 more than a similarly equipped 2WD, spreading that amount over an auto loan of 60 months is negligible regarding your monthly budget.

Another disadvantage is that AWD vehicles typically have worse gas mileage than 2WD vehicles because the engine uses more gasoline to power all four wheels. But with modern engines, the figures only come to two or three miles per gallon.

Tires will wear more quickly with AWD, but that’s why we recommend having regular tire rotations every 3,000 to 5,000 miles on an AWD vehicle. Our team will ensure your tires stay in top shape and even out the tire tread wear.

What Is Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)?

Four-wheel drive (4WD) systems are similar to AWD in distributing power to all four wheels. However, 4WD is less dynamic than AWD, meaning 4WD gives the driver more control over when it engages. And the vehicle’s computer may have fewer capabilities to send power to the wheels automatically. In general, an AWD system is more advanced and can handle all types of driving.

The main advantage of 4WD over AWD comes from off-roading and rugged terrain. Full-time 4WD is ideal when there are no roads and you’re driving on trails or managing a rural property. Full-time 4WD works very well when muddy conditions or ruts are in the trail. It’s also better for steeper terrain when you need all four wheels to have power.

What Is Two-Wheel Drive (2WD)?

Two-wheel drive (2WD) vehicles send power to only two wheels through either front-wheel drive (FWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD). The front wheels receive power in FWD vehicles, while the opposite is true for RWD cars. 2WD drivetrains are most suitable for mild climates with less snow or rain. In adverse weather conditions or driving on surfaces other than pavement, it’s better to have AWD.

The main advantage of 2WD is that the tires don’t get as much wear as AWD. In general, they are also better on gas mileage. But again, the fuel economy numbers are negligible (2 to 3 mpg).

When Do You Need AWD vs. 4WD vs. 2WD?

For light rain and traveling mostly on paved roads, 2WD should work just fine for your needs. If you live in a climate with lots of rain or lots of snow, or you travel on dirt or gravel roads on a frequent basis, consider an AWD or 4WD vehicle.

Typically, we have over 100 new vehicles in stock with AWD or 4WD powertrains, perfect for off-road adventures or managing your rural property.

GMC & Buick Vehicles With AWD or 4WD

Many GMC and Buick vehicles come with AWD or 4WD as standard or options. GMC, in particular, has robust AWD capabilities in its SUVs, while the trucks have 4WD when traveling off-road.  Any of these vehicles have better handling on slick roads or when you manage a rural property in Southwest Missouri.

Take a look at the vehicles with AWD or 4WD on our lot.

GMC Pickup Trucks With 4WD

GMC Canyon: 4WD standard on the highest three trims, optional on the Elevation trim.

GMC Sierra 1500: 2WD standard on the lowest four trims, 4WD standard on the three highest trims, and optional on the lowest four trims.

GMC Sierra HD: Drivetrain depends on the cab size you select. 4WD may be the only choice on higher trims, like the AT4 and Denali trims. 

GMC SUVs With AWD

GMC Terrain: FWD standard on SLE and SLT trims with AWD optional, AWD only for AT4 and Denali trims.

GMC Acadia: FWD standard on SLE and SLT trims with AWD optional, AWD only for AT4 and Denali trims.

GMC Yukon and Yukon XL: FWD standard on SLE and SLT trims with AWD optional, AWD only for AT4, Denali, and Denali Ultimate trims.

GMC Hummer EV: For EVs, the GMC Hummer has either two or three powerful electric motors for AWD capabilities.

Buick Models With AWD

The Buick Enclave, Envision, and Encore GX all have FWD as a standard with possible upgrades to AWD. Some packages, like the Cold Weather Package for the Encore GX, come with AWD as standard.

One final note on Buick’s AWD vs. FWD: If you want better trailering capabilities, we highly recommend the AWD for better control over your trailer, whether you have a camper, boat, or utility trailer behind you.

4WD and AWD Vehicles for Sale in Springfield, MO

Contact us or call 417-763-6811 if you have any questions about these vehicles. If you’re ready to drive one, schedule a test drive with our team!