which is better 4x4 or All wheel drive?

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Depends on your needs. All Wheel Drive is a full time four wheel drive system, but it doesn't always run in four wheel drives. Most are designed to run in two wheel drive until the system detects a need for the other two wheels to engage. Then they will automatically engage- without driver input. You just keep driving and the system takes care of the rest. This system is used in cars and SUVs and is ideal for onroad use in extreme weather (ie. rain, snow, etc.) conditions. It can also be used for light off roading at times as well.

Many vehicles with All Wheel Drive will be referred to as 4X4s and while it is true, it can be misleading. 4x4s or standard four-wheel drive units are generally found in all pick up trucks and many SUVs- mostly truck-based SUVs. This system operates normally in two-wheel drive and must be shifted via driver input by way of a gear lever (or a push button on electronic 4 wheel drives). Most have locking hubs for the wheels and a transfer case. This system can also be used for on-road use in rain, snow etc., but differs from All Wheel Drive in it's ability to be used off paved roads. This is the system you want for heavy-duty offroading because of it's generally built to withstand abuse and is better controlled in extreme off road conditions. I hope this helps....Show more

All wheel drive is the same thing as 4x4

4x4 literally means 4 wheels x 4 drive wheels (aka, all wheel drive)

4x2 would mean 4 wheels x 2 drive wheels

Semi trucks are 6x4, 6 wheels x 4 drive wheels....Show more

All Wheel Drive keeps you on the road. Four Wheel Drive takes you off-roading....Show more

They are the same Offroad or in snow.

4WD(4x4) can turn to 2WD when you want to.

AWD is always on. You can never switch to 2WD....Show more

all wheel is better is ates pass...Show more