What is AWD?

[DeLola]

AWD on a vehicle refers to full-time four-wheel drive, where the engine distributes power evenly to all four wheels through the drivetrain. Below is a detailed introduction to the four-wheel drive system modes: H4F Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive: H4F is the default four-wheel drive mode for the Prado, used during everyday city driving. H4L High-Speed Four-Wheel Drive: In high-speed four-wheel drive mode, both the front and rear differentials are locked, causing all four wheels to rotate at the same speed. This prevents situations where lifted wheels spin rapidly while stuck wheels remain stationary. When in H4L mode, it is best not to exceed a speed of 80 km/h. L4L Low-Speed Four-Wheel Drive: Low-speed four-wheel drive is typically used in slippery conditions such as mud or swamps. It reduces speed through a gear mechanism to increase torque. The Prado's low-speed four-wheel drive can amplify the torque by 2.6 times compared to high-speed four-wheel drive, providing greater power to escape difficult situations, though the vehicle speed will be slower.

[AmyFitz]

AWD stands for All-Wheel Drive, meaning all four wheels of the vehicle can receive power to help you drive more steadily. Having been in the automotive industry for many years, I've found it particularly useful on slippery surfaces, such as rainy days or snowy roads, where it provides more even traction. Compared to two-wheel drive systems that only power either the front or rear wheels, AWD uses an intelligent system to automatically distribute power to the wheels that need grip, preventing slippage. The system includes differentials and couplings that work together to ensure power isn't wasted on spinning wheels. Common types include full-time and on-demand AWD, differing in their level of automation. Many urban SUVs and family cars come with it as standard, especially brands like Subaru and Audi, which are well-known for their AWD systems. When driving in mountainous areas or on slippery muddy roads, AWD gives me peace of mind regarding safety, though fuel consumption may be slightly higher than in regular cars, but it's acceptable.

[SanEmery]

Living in the cold northeastern region, I often encounter icy roads while driving, and AWD has been a lifesaver for me. All-wheel drive prevents the car from skidding easily during acceleration and turns, especially on snowy days when the roads are slippery while taking my kids to school—AWD is much more stable than two-wheel drive. Although it adds some complexity with features like electronic control systems that adjust power distribution to the wheels, maintenance isn’t too troublesome—just regular check-ups. The downsides might be a slight increase in fuel consumption (around 5%) and a higher upfront cost, but I believe spending a few thousand extra for year-round peace of mind is worth it. I recommend family car owners consider AWD models, especially those with kids or who frequently drive long distances—it’s more hassle-free than fitting winter tires. On winter highways, it automatically optimizes traction, reducing accident risks, making it highly practical.

[DelNolan]

AWD sounds technical, but it's actually crucial for everyday driving. With over 20 years of driving experience, I can tell you that AWD stands for All-Wheel Drive. By powering all wheels simultaneously, it enhances traction, preventing skidding during storms or on snowy roads. It's not a miracle solution, but it can reduce accident probability by over 40%, especially during emergency braking or sharp turns. The system relies on sensors to monitor wheel speeds and dynamically adjust power distribution, ensuring no power is wasted. Although it consumes slightly more fuel, the trade-off for safety is negligible. When choosing a car, prioritize the AWD version.