AWD vs 4WD

[Operator]

Well I didn't want to start up a new thread with what some may think is a stupid question but here goes anyway. I just wanted to know if there is a difference between 4WD and AWD.

[Joel_CA]

All wheel drive is a non switchable full time 4wheel drive system with a center differential that allows for use in dry roads or situations with good traction.

4WD is a part-time 4wheel drive system with NO center differential. This means that both front and rear center driveshafts are rotating at equal speeds at all times. Great for off-road use, but NOT GOOD for high traction situations and city driving in which lots of turns (turns will attempt to force the center driveshafts to rotate at different speeds).

The A4WD system on the Montero Sport is a AWD system that allows the center differential to be locked into a part time 4wd mode for the best of both worlds.

Joel, CA

[CerOf]

to throw another option in there:

Full Time 4 Wheel Drive v. All Wheel Drive


FT4WD has a 2 speed transfer case (i.e. Low range)


AWD has a single speed transfer case (no low range)

AWD is found on the likes of the Lexus RX330 and various cars including Audi and Volkswagens, Subaru, etc

FT4WD is found on the likes fo the Montero Sport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus LX470, Various Range Rovers and some other vehicles that also have a low range.

[Operator]

With my option to shift between 4H and 4L is that allowing the center differential to be locked. My MS has AWD on the back I've done a search for "The A4WD" and can't find anything. Although my ride says AWD do I really have "FT4WD has a 2 speed transfer case (i.e. Low range)" as was posted?

[Joel_CA]

The "A" in the AWD in the back is written in 2 shades of color. It's meant to say A4WD.

Joel, CA

[Operator]

Thanks for all the info!!!!