Still confused about the difference between AWD and 4WD? Don't worry, you're not alone! Although these two terms often appear in the automotive world, in reality, many people still don't fully understand the All Wheel Drive (AWD) and Four Wheel Drive (4WD) systems. Especially in Indonesia, where vehicles with these systems are not yet widely available, typically only found in SUVs or off-roaders with relatively high price tags.

Get to Know the Key Components First

Before discussing the differences between AWD and 4WD, you need to understand the two key components that make these systems function: the differential and the transfer case.

The differential is a device that allows the left and right wheels to rotate at different speeds when the vehicle turns. Its function is crucial for smooth and safe driving, especially on curves.  

Meanwhile, the transfer case distributes power from the engine to the front and rear wheels as needed. This component is what typically provides features like low-range mode in 4WD vehicles, ideal for heavy off-road use.

AWD: All Wheels Active, Maximum Stability

AWD, or All-Wheel Drive, is commonly found in sports cars or SUVs that require high performance and maximum stability. This system automatically drives all four wheels simultaneously while the vehicle is in motion, without the option to switch to two-wheel drive mode.

The advantage of AWD is better traction on all terrains, whether slippery roads, sandy surfaces, or smooth surfaces. If one wheel slips, the system automatically redirects power to the other wheels. All of this is controlled by a computer and center differential, so power distribution can adjust to road conditions in real-time.

However, the downside is increased fuel consumption. Since all wheels are constantly active, the engine requires more power.

4WD: Flexible and Ready for Hills

Unlike AWD, 4WD (Four Wheel Drive) is a system that can be adjusted. You can choose to use two drive wheels (usually the rear) or activate all wheels when you need extra power, such as when climbing a mountain, crossing a muddy track, or navigating an extreme terrain.

Because it’s flexible, the 4WD system is a favorite in the off-road world. You can save fuel on normal roads but still have plenty of power when needed. Features like low-range gears are also super helpful for maneuvering in tough terrain.

So, Which Is Better: AWD or 4WD?

If you prefer driving in the city and want a stable, comfortable ride on highways, AWD might be the better choice. But if you're an adventurous type who enjoys mountain climbing, forest trekking, or exploring extreme terrain, 4WD is clearly the better fit.

Ultimately, it all comes down to your needs. And now, you shouldn't be confused anymore about the difference between AWD and 4WD, right?

Indonesia 🇮🇩

Biar Nggak Bingung Lagi, Ini Bedanya AWD dan 4WD di Mobil Modern!

Masih sering bingung bedain antara AWD dan 4WD? Tenang, kamu nggak sendirian! Meski dua istilah ini sering muncul di dunia otomotif, nyatanya masih banyak yang belum paham betul soal sistem penggerak roda All Wheel Drive (AWD) dan Four Wheel Drive (4WD). Apalagi di Indonesia, jenis mobil dengan sistem ini memang belum terlalu banyak beredar, biasanya hanya ada di mobil-mobil SUV atau off-roader yang harganya lumayan tinggi.

Kenalan Dulu Sama Komponen Pentingnya

Sebelum ngobrolin soal perbedaan AWD dan 4WD, kamu perlu tahu dulu dua komponen kunci yang bikin sistem ini bisa bekerja: differential dan transfer case.

Differential adalah perangkat yang memungkinkan roda kiri dan kanan bisa berputar dengan kecepatan berbeda saat mobil belok. Fungsinya penting banget biar mobil bisa jalan mulus dan aman, apalagi di tikungan.

Sementara itu, transfer case bertugas membagi tenaga dari mesin ke roda depan dan belakang sesuai kebutuhan. Nah, komponen ini yang biasanya kasih fitur kayak low-range mode di mobil 4WD, cocok banget buat off-road berat.

AWD: Semua Roda Aktif, Stabilitas Maksimal

AWD alias All Wheel Drive biasanya ditemukan di mobil sport atau SUV yang butuh performa tinggi dan stabilitas maksimal. Sistem ini otomatis menggerakkan keempat roda sekaligus saat mobil berjalan, tanpa bisa diganti ke mode dua roda.

Kelebihan dari AWD adalah traksi yang lebih baik di segala medan, entah jalan licin, berpasir, atau permukaan mulus. Kalau salah satu roda selip, sistem bakal otomatis mengalihkan tenaga ke roda lain. Semua ini diatur komputer dan center differential, jadi distribusi tenaga bisa menyesuaikan kondisi jalan secara real-time.

Tapi, kekurangannya jadi boros bahan bakar. Karena semua roda aktif terus, mesin jadi butuh tenaga lebih banyak.

4WD: Fleksibel dan Siap Tanjakan

Berbeda dengan AWD, 4WD (Four Wheel Drive) adalah sistem yang bisa diatur. Kamu bisa pilih mau pakai dua roda penggerak (biasanya belakang), atau aktifkan semua roda kalau lagi butuh tenaga ekstra, misalnya saat naik gunung, lewati trek berlumpur, atau jalur ekstrem.

Karena fleksibel, sistem 4WD jadi favorit di dunia off-road. Kamu bisa hemat BBM saat jalan normal, tapi tetap punya tenaga besar saat dibutuhkan. Fitur seperti low-range gear juga membantu banget buat manuver di medan berat.

Jadi, Lebih Cocok AWD atau 4WD?

Kalau kamu suka berkendara di kota, pengin mobil yang stabil dan nyaman buat di jalan tol, AWD bisa jadi pilihan. Tapi kalau kamu tipe petualang yang suka naik gunung, masuk hutan, atau jelajah medan ekstrim, 4WD jelas lebih pas.

Intinya, semua balik ke kebutuhan. Dan sekarang, kamu sudah nggak bingung lagi dong bedain AWD dan 4WD?