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4X4 vs AWD

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Old Jan 25, 2007 | 05:40 PM
  #1  
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From: Catlettsburg,KY
4X4 vs AWD

Hi guys im replacing my 02 Explorer that was totaled and was wondering what your thoughts were on 4X4 vs AWD. My 02 was shift on the fly 4x4 which I liked but would AWD be better or worse.

THANKS
 
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Old Jan 25, 2007 | 05:44 PM
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awd better if you are usually on regular roads with occasional off road and 4x4 with the available 4low is better for serious off road use.
 

Last edited by quicklook2; Jan 25, 2007 at 05:47 PM.
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Old Jan 25, 2007 | 05:45 PM
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what kind of drving do you do? If it's all on pavement, I think AWD is fine. But if you ever have to get through mud or deep snow, 4WD is a whole diffferent animal.
 
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Old Jan 25, 2007 | 05:57 PM
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I've heard that AWD is tougher on gas mileage and tire wear. I'm sure others will jiump in here.
 
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Old Jan 25, 2007 | 06:13 PM
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Its pavement 99% of the time a little snow but not much, Its mainly a pice of mine for me im out of town alot and dont worry about my wife as much.
 
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Old Jan 25, 2007 | 08:01 PM
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All wheel drive has power going to all wheels all the time, whereas 4X4 is primarily rear wheel drive, engaging the fronts as needed.

All wheel was developed for better handling and bad weather driving, but not intended for serious off road use.. there is a small hit on fuel economy, but not the much difference.

Hope this helps.
 
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Old Jan 25, 2007 | 08:12 PM
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Thumbs up

Thanks for the replies guys
 
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Old Jan 26, 2007 | 09:07 PM
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The simple answer si that AWD means that all 4 tires spin all the time. This is not always true though. Many modern day AWD drives are a 2wd that automatically engage the 4wd when the 2wd slips.

The best of the two is a preference. Like previously stated the 4wd is better for off road because it has more capabilities since awd does not have 4wd low. If you simply stay on the roads and want "4x4" but dont want to have to hit any buttons or switch any gears then AWD is for you. If you want to have more control over what/when the wheels spin and plan to drive on aggresive terrain, the 4wd is for you.

Hope this helps
 
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Old Jan 27, 2007 | 09:19 PM
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I would have to say awd, it's what I have and my wife loves it, come snow or sun(usually half and half) We are from North East, then we are good to go 24/7.
 
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