What are the advantages of 4WD?
2 Answers
Four-wheel drive vehicles have two major advantages: improved off-road capability and enhanced active safety. Four-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the vehicle can receive power, enabling the wheels to rotate and propel the vehicle forward or backward. During uphill climbing, vehicle tilt can cause uneven weight distribution, with greater pressure on the rear wheels. Four-wheel drive models allocate driving force to the rear wheels, making it easier to climb slopes. When vehicle tires get stuck in mud, it's difficult to drive out. However, four-wheel drive vehicles can utilize the differential lock function to distribute sufficient torque to the tires and push the vehicle out. Four-wheel drive vehicles also have significant advantages when driving on snow, effectively utilizing tire traction to make the vehicle easier to control. The four-wheel drive systems used in vehicles include full-time four-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive, and on-demand four-wheel drive. Full-time four-wheel drive and on-demand four-wheel drive are generally front-wheel-drive-based four-wheel drive systems. During operation, multi-plate clutches are used for front and rear wheel power distribution. Vehicles equipped with part-time four-wheel drive systems allow drivers to manually switch between different drive modes while driving.
I've driven a four-wheel-drive vehicle for several years, and I feel its biggest advantage is the exceptional stability during daily commutes. Especially on rainy or snowy days, it doesn't slip when starting on slippery roads, and cornering feels much safer, giving me a lot more peace of mind. Where I live, it snows frequently in winter, and regular front-wheel-drive cars tend to skid easily on the road, but four-wheel-drive vehicles don't have this issue—all four wheels work together, providing much stronger traction. When driving with family, especially with more passengers or heavier loads, climbing hills is also easier without worrying about rolling back. Even on highways during heavy rain, the handling is excellent, reducing the risk of accidents. Although fuel consumption might be slightly higher, considering the safety and peace of mind, it's absolutely worth it.
