Is Quattro a Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive or an On-Demand Four-Wheel Drive?
2 Answers
Quattro mostly adopts full-time four-wheel drive in National V emission standard models, while it uses on-demand four-wheel drive in National VI emission standard models. Introduction to Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive: It refers to a driving system where all four wheels independently propel the vehicle at all times. In English, "All Wheel Drive" is abbreviated as "AWD" to distinguish it from 2WD (which includes FWD and RWD). Function of Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive: It means that the vehicle maintains a four-wheel drive form throughout the entire driving process, with the engine's output torque distributed to the front and rear wheels in a fixed proportion. This driving mode ensures good off-road and handling performance at all times, but it cannot adjust torque distribution based on road conditions and has relatively higher fuel consumption.
The Quattro system is mostly full-time all-wheel drive, meaning all four wheels are constantly in operation and don't just engage when slipping. This is particularly evident in Audi's S and RS series, where the car feels as if it's gripping the road tightly. I remember driving an Audi A4 with Quattro on the highway during heavy rain, feeling extremely secure with its exceptional tire grip—unlike on-demand all-wheel drive systems that only intervene in certain situations and often have delays. However, Audi uses an on-demand all-wheel drive variant in some entry-level models like the A3, switching electronically to save fuel. The core Quattro still emphasizes all-weather performance, derived from rally technology, which makes enthusiasts like me see it not just as a safety enhancement but also as a symbol of Audi's relentless innovation in drivetrain systems. If you frequently drive on slippery roads, this full-time design is the optimal choice.
