Is On-Demand AWD Useless?

[McMiguel]

Not useless. On-demand AWD is commonly found in current urban SUVs on the market, such as the RAV4, CR-V, Highlander, and X-Trail, all of which use on-demand AWD. This AWD system detects via computer whether the front wheels are slipping. If slippage occurs, it transfers some power to the rear wheels to help free the vehicle, typically operating in front-wheel drive under normal driving conditions. The advantages of on-demand AWD lie in its simplicity and ease of use, with all actions directly controlled by the computer, though its off-road capability is very limited and the computer's response is quite slow. Below is relevant information about on-demand AWD: 1. How on-demand AWD works: On-demand AWD only switches to four-wheel drive when necessary, remaining in two-wheel drive under other conditions. The system automatically switches between two-wheel and four-wheel drive modes based on the vehicle's driving conditions without requiring manual operation. 2. Advantages of on-demand AWD over full-time AWD: Compared to full-time AWD, on-demand AWD has a much simpler structure, which not only effectively reduces costs but also helps lower the overall vehicle weight. Due to its unique structure, on-demand AWD is more suitable for models with a front-transverse engine and front-wheel-drive platform, enabling many SUVs or AWD sedans based on this platform to be equipped with an AWD system. The front-wheel-drive platform, compared to the rear-wheel-drive platform, is more conducive to expanding interior space, offers higher transmission efficiency, and produces less noise from the transmission system. These advantages are particularly important for compact SUVs, especially those with smaller engine displacements.