What's the difference between 4 wheel drive and all wheel drive

All-wheel drive, or AWD, refers to a system where all four wheels can gain traction independently of each other. The difference between AWD and 4WD is that AWD is typically always on while you can toggle between having 4WD on and off.

What are the disadvantages of AWD?

Unlike AWD systems, relying on a computer to shift engine output to all four wheels, 4WD systems require some driver participation to get the most performance out of all the wheels. This means that by way of a button, dial, or shift lever, the driver must engage the system at some point.

Is 4x4 same as AWD?

Four-Wheel Drive Disadvantages\n\n The main disadvantage of 4WD is added cost for purchase, maintenance, and fuel. The extra equipment (differentials, transfer case, etc.) adds complexity and weight to the vehicle, increasing initial market value, tire wear, and the cost of repairs and maintenance.

What are disadvantages of AWD and 4WD?

Strictly speaking, 4൴ cars have engines that power all four wheels. In a lot of cars, in addition to crossover SUVs, the 4൴ drivetrain systems are all-wheel drive (AWD), and not four-wheel drive (4WD) as often found in cars and off-road SUVs.