What kind of 4WD is the Great Wall Pao? Is it full-time 4WD?
3 Answers
The Great Wall Pao's 4WD system is an on-demand 4WD, not a full-time 4WD. The commercial version of the Great Wall Pao pickup truck also has a 4WD variant, with the new vehicle offering both rear-wheel drive and 4WD configurations. There are the following differences between part-time 4WD and full-time 4WD: 1. On-demand 4WD: On-demand 4WD can automatically switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive based on road conditions while driving. However, on-demand 4WD has inferior off-road capability compared to full-time 4WD, so it is mainly equipped on urban SUVs. 2. Part-time 4WD: Part-time 4WD uses two sets of 4WD systems, where the driver manually switches the driving mode via a transfer case. It is primarily used on various hardcore off-road vehicles. Full-time 4WD is currently the most widely used 4WD system.
I just got a Great Wall Cannon, and its four-wheel drive is not full-time 4WD. My vehicle has an on-demand 4WD system, which means it mostly runs in two-wheel drive during normal conditions and automatically switches to four-wheel drive only when the tires slip or the road conditions are poor. This design is quite smart—it saves fuel and is convenient for daily driving while still offering decent off-road capability. However, in top-tier models like the off-road version, you can opt for full-time 4WD, which performs more stably on rough terrain with balanced power distribution, though at a slightly higher fuel consumption. If you mostly drive in the city or go on casual outings, the on-demand 4WD is sufficient, and there’s no need to chase after full-time 4WD. Overall, the Great Wall Cannon’s 4WD layout is well thought out, offering multiple configurations based on different needs. Just make sure to check the specific version’s parameters when choosing your car.
I've test-driven different versions of the Great Wall Poer, and the four-wheel drive systems actually come in several types: the entry-level is rear-wheel drive, mainstream models use on-demand 4WD (not full-time 4WD), while premium variants may feature full-time 4WD. My experience is that the on-demand system is practical enough—it activates 4WD when sensors detect wheel slip, with quick response, economical fuel consumption during normal driving, and reliable performance in rain or snow. Full-time 4WD provides continuous power output, offering stronger traction off-road, but it's more expensive and better suited for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Before buying, I recommend checking the vehicle manual to understand the differences in drive types, so you don't mistakenly assume all models have full-time 4WD. Overall, on-demand 4WD offers better value for money and is the ideal choice for most people.
