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Not to be more technical, but no, 4WD and AWD, are not the same thing. While I generally don't like to bust chops over semantics, if you want to talk technical turkey in an automotive forum, even one on this site, you should try to get the facts straight.
From an industry perspective:
4WD = A non-permanent system that uses a selectable transfer case to lock/unlock drive axles. This system is the one commonly used on trucks and full sized SUV's and would be generally considered "real 4WD".
AWD = A permanent system that uses a series of sensors and differentials to automatically proportion power as needed between drive wheels. This comes in multiple styles and types from mechanical differential style systems like Torsen to part-time systems like Haldex.
To up the confusion factor a bit you also have hybrid systems like the ones on full size GM SUV's that allow you to use a selector to lock in the transfer case ala regular 4WD, but that also have a selection for "Auto" that locks in the drive axles, but leaves the diffs open until slip is detected, making it operate more like AWD.
This was the wiki style summary and both systems can get far more complex when dealing with the technical details, but, yes, from an automotive standpoint, there is a difference between 4WD and AWD.
ok ur being rude. ty for the lesson on vehicles but do you really need to be rude? ugh.
In rural South Texas, every full sized sedan looks like a cop car. All civilians drive pickups, so cops are easy to spot at a distance in the only sedans. Ive noticed the cops are starting to switch to trucks.
Yup, you're right iColt1, 4wd and AWD are the same thing, except in the elitist mind.....
Thanks, no ones ever considered me an elitist before.
I really wasn't trying to be rude or indignant and I apologize if it came off that way. I was honestly just trying to explain the technical differences in the systems. Spread the knowledge, so to speak. I will admit that in a regular conversation a lot of people use the term interchangeably, but there is a significant technical difference especially when talking about a vehicles capabilities.
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