Is 4WD Necessary for SUVs?
2 Answers
If you frequently drive on rough roads and often encounter slippery surfaces, then purchasing a 4WD vehicle is advisable. However, if most of your driving is done on well-maintained urban roads, there is no need to opt for 4WD. Relevant information is as follows: Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): In a 4WD system, all four wheels of the vehicle receive driving force. This means the engine's power is distributed to all four wheels, reducing the likelihood of wheel slippage on poor road conditions and significantly improving the vehicle's off-road capability. Classification of 4WD Systems: 4WD systems are mainly divided into two categories: Part-Time 4WD and Full-Time 4WD.
I live in the mountainous area of Northeast China where heavy snow piles up every winter, making the roads extremely slippery. I used to drive a two-wheel-drive SUV, which often slipped on slopes. Once, it nearly slid into a ditch, scaring me so much that I didn't dare to drive it anymore. After switching to a four-wheel-drive vehicle, the power is evenly distributed to all four wheels, providing much better traction. Driving on snowy and icy days has become much more stable, and my wife and kids feel safer in the car. Although it's more expensive and consumes more fuel, it's nothing compared to life safety. Of course, if you live in the city year-round without such issues, a two-wheel-drive would be more cost-effective. But for those of us living in mountainous areas, four-wheel-drive is an absolute necessity—you can't skimp on that.