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    What is the difference between 4WD and AWD?

    Subaru Subaru Advice Subaru Forester Subaru Forester Advice

    What is the difference between 4WD and AWD? Previously, it used to be pretty easy to distinguish the two but looking at the cars available, it is hard to tell ie. Amarok doesn't have a low-range, some utes have diff-lockers, my Forester has one of the better AWD systems with an X-Mode to further aid traction. The reason I ask is that I wish to begin to take my Forester off-road (sensibly of course). If I see a track that says '4WD only', can I assume my car would be able to handle this track in good weather, with a sensible driver? 

    Answered by CarsGuide
    30 November 2017
    Graham Smith

    The difference between 4WD and AWD has become blurred as some AWD cars have become more capable of use offroad. It used to be that a 4WD were part-time four-wheel drives with high and low range, which could be locked in for off-road use. An AWD was really an on-demand system, which was front-wheel drive for most of the time, and drive as sent to the rear wheels when needed for traction. A lot of AWD SUVS now have quite sophisticated electronic systems that give them greater ability to go down bush tracks. One of the big issues for AWDs vehicles off-road is usually their ground clearance, so you have to assess the roads you want to use and drive accordingly.

    Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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