Is 4WD Necessary for SUVs?

[MacKiara]

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.

[AlessandraLee]

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.

[LaVera]

For daily commuting in the city, SUVs offer spacious interiors and excellent visibility. After driving for several years, I've never encountered a situation where four-wheel drive was necessary. Traffic jams, traffic lights, and paved roads make for stable driving conditions where front-wheel drive is more than sufficient. Four-wheel drive systems not only add several thousand dollars to the purchase price but also complicate maintenance with more parts prone to issues, plus they increase fuel consumption by about 10%. I recommend that average families prioritize two-wheel drive versions, saving money to upgrade the interior or for routine maintenance—much more practical. If you really want to go on trips, stick to mainstream road destinations. Don’t be swayed by advertising; practicality should always come first.

[DelAugust]

When traveling with family, safety is the top priority, and choosing a four-wheel-drive SUV indeed delivers reliable performance on slippery roads. Driving in the rain, the tires are less prone to skidding, and the system automatically adjusts power distribution to reduce the risk of rollover. I remember last year driving on the highway during a heavy downpour with many puddles on the road—two-wheel-drive vehicles were crawling along, while my car handled steadily. Spending a bit more on the budget enhances peace of mind. Key points include pairing with good tires to amplify the effect, but the core lies in the extra layer of protection provided by four-wheel drive.