Differences between four-wheel and all-wheel drive explained

All-wheel drive is good for slippery roads and mild off-road driving.
All-wheel drive is good for slippery roads and mild off-road driving. | File photo

While four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive may sound the same, they aren't.

Carbone Automotive Group explained the key differences between the two in a recent blog post.

Four-wheel drive is a manual option chosen by the driver. When 4WD is engaged, both the front and rear axles are added to the drivetrain system. Four-wheel drive is ideal when driving in severe weather or difficult off-road terrain.

All-wheel drive is an automated system. All four wheels are included in the drive train, which increases or decreases the rotation of tires individually based upon traction or lack thereof. A computer takes care of all the details automatically and knows when this feature is needed. All-wheel drive is good for slippery roads and mild off-road driving.

To learn more, visit the Carbone team in Yorkville, New York to see examples of each type of vehicle and to find out which is best for your driving style.