What does 4*2 mean for a car?
3 Answers
4×2 indicates a two-axle vehicle (four-wheel support) with two-wheel drive (typically rear axle drive). More related information is as follows: 4×4 indicates a two-axle vehicle (four-wheel support) with four-wheel drive (both front and rear axles are drive axles); 6×2 indicates a three-axle vehicle (six-wheel support) with two-wheel drive (typically middle axle drive); 6×4 indicates a three-axle vehicle (six-wheel support) with four-wheel drive (typically middle and rear axle drive); 6×6 indicates a three-axle vehicle (six-wheel support) with six-wheel drive (all three axles are drive axles). More related information is as follows: Note: The first digit indicates the number of axles the vehicle has, regardless of the number of tires on each axle, which is converted to 'one axle with two tires.' Therefore, 6*X represents a three-axle vehicle, and 4*X represents a two-axle vehicle, while the second digit represents the number of drive wheels.
I used to be curious about this term when driving. A 4*2 vehicle means that out of the four wheels, only two are responsible for propulsion, like most sedans such as my old Honda Accord, which operates in rear-wheel drive mode. Driving this type of car in the city has many benefits—it has quick turning response and is quite fuel-efficient due to minimal power loss, unlike heavier and more fuel-consuming all-wheel-drive vehicles. I remember one long trip where my 4*2 car ran hundreds of kilometers on just half a tank, while my friend's all-wheel-drive SUV kept stopping at gas stations. The downside? It tends to slip in snowy conditions, but fitting winter tires can handle that. It's perfect for daily commutes and highway driving—economical and hassle-free. Maintenance is also simpler, with fewer complex components, making it ideal for long-time drivers like me who know how to choose a car that saves both money and hassle.
As a car enthusiast, I've studied various drivetrain systems. The 4*2 configuration refers to two-wheel drive out of four wheels, commonly seen in front-wheel or rear-wheel drive models like the Toyota Camry. Its advantages include higher fuel efficiency, reduced vehicle weight for better handling fun, and especially quick acceleration in urban areas, making driving more exciting. Compared to four-wheel drive, 4*2 is lower in cost and simpler to maintain, but lacks traction on slippery roads, something I've personally experienced - you need to watch your speed and tire wear in rainy conditions. Relatedly, let's talk about AWD (all-wheel drive), which is more versatile but consumes more fuel, while 4*2 offers a balanced choice. I recommend choosing based on your lifestyle scenario, and for budget-conscious enthusiasts, I'd suggest prioritizing 4*2.
