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Atlantic Kia
The comparison between AWD and 4WD has been raging for many years. Automotive consumers from Sackville, Springhill, Oxford, Parrsboro and surrounding areas of Nova Scotia have wondered which system will best suit their needs. At Atlantic Kia, we want to make sure you make the right choice because our primary goal is your complete satisfaction. So please continue reading to learn more about this hotly contested comparison.
All-wheel drive is a drivetrain configuration that in modern vehicles primarily sends power to the front wheels through a differential. However, through the use of sensors when power is required, it is able to distribute it in various ratios to the rear wheels via another differential. There are many different types of all-wheel-drive systems available to automotive consumers. Unfortunately, this has caused slight confusion, so let's clear it up. Two of the more popular all-wheel-drive systems are full-time AWD and part-time AWD. As the name suggests, full-time AWD sends power to all four wheels in different ratios depending on the current driving condition. While part-time AWD systems monitor many of the exterior driving conditions and driving behaviour, then decide where to distribute power. It is common to see all-wheel-drive systems available on vehicles that are constructed with a unibody frame.
Four-wheel drive, or as it was traditionally known as 4x4, relies on the concept of delivering power to all four wheels all the time. Not only can they send power to the front and rear axles, but they can also transfer torque left and right. 4WD systems have been best-known for their extreme off-road capabilities and are mostly found in vehicles that feature body-on-frame designs. The best example of a 4WD vehicle is a pickup truck.
This is a tough comparison to decide because each system has its benefits, and it truly depends on your priorities and wants. All-wheel drive vehicles will generally consume less fuel as power is only used when needed. At the same time, 4WD vehicles may consume more because power is used by all four wheels. For automotive consumers that live in suburban areas that experience various weather conditions, AWD is ideal. If you are someone that likes to take their vehicle off-roading, to the job site or haul cargo, then 4WD will suit you best.
There is no doubt that we have a large inventory of AWD Kia's for sale. But our used vehicle inventory also features 4WD vehicles that are sure to fulfill your needs and wants. So what are you waiting for? Come in and browse our complete inventory. Contact us for more information and our product specialists will be more than happy to help.