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Wondering what's the difference between AWD and 4WD?

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Lost in translation?
Not catching up with the marketing acronyms for cars?

Here's what makes the difference between All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) and 4-Wheel-Drive (4WD, 4x4) vehicles.

Make sure of the use you intend to do with your car prior to deciding which of the AWD or 4WD (4x4) you will purchase.
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Comparative chart for 4WD and AWD vehicles, differences between both modes of transmission.

The below is a general comparison between vehicles with AWD transmission and others with 4WD (or 4x4) transmission.
Some exceptions can be there since marketing acronyms for cars are not standardized.
This is a bit like the "GT" label which can be used on a wide range of vehicles from a sporty version of a common vehicle to a super car.
Feature
AWD
4WD
Purpose of vehicle
AWD vehicles are not designed for off-road use. Their four-wheel-drive system is compatible with road use like on wet, snowy roads and mud or dead leaves covered slippery rural paths.
4WD vehicles are designed for off-road use. Their four-wheel-drive system is compatible with both off-road and slippery roads conditions (see further below for road handling).
Ground Clearance - Chassis / Body strength
The ground clearance of AWD vehicles is either identical to regular cars or slightly higher but not enough to get clear of obstacles in off-road conditions. The lower body part and suspension are not designed to tackle rough terrain, stones, rocks, shocks, etc.
Ground clearance, lower body robustness and suspension travel of 4WD vehicles are designed to be able to cope with difficult terrain, shocks and vibrations. The suspension travel is increased to maintain traction in tough conditions
Four wheel drive transmission type, speed and road handling
Permanent on all wheels reason why it is so-called All-Wheel-Drive or AWD.
The four wheels remain connected to the engine at all time and regardless of the vehicle speed. There is no low gear in the vehicle transmission which is designed to increase the road grip and handling on medium and high speeds. AWD vehicles can easily get stuck in difficult situations at speed zero, especially in thick snow or mud.
The driver has the choice between 2WD in normal use and 4WD when off-roading. Some vehicles offer an automatic 2WD/4WD mode shifting under slippery conditions. The 4WD transmission is associated with a lower gear that does not allow to reach high speeds. This provides the choice between 4H (4-wheel drive high gear) and 4L (4-wheel drive low gear) transmissions. The vehicle's road handling is poor however, mainly due to the higher center of gravity.
Tires and accessories
AWD vehicles are equipped with high performance summer tires, possibly all-season tires in vehicles with a slightly increased ground clearance. Available accessories are the standard accessories for regular cars.
4WD vehicles are equipped with M+S tires or off-road tires with a deeper pattern that is more suitable for off-road use. A range of accessories can be fitted to these vehicles from simple tools up to complete upgrades of the suspension.

See also our comprehensive tutorials for car maintenance: