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Is a Dodge Durango AWD or 4WD?

The Dodge Durango today is offered with AWD (all‑wheel drive) rather than a traditional low‑range 4WD system. In modern Durangos, AWD is the common traction setup, while a true two‑speed 4WD with a low range is not part of the current lineup.

Understanding the difference between AWD and 4WD

All‑wheel drive (AWD) systems continuously monitor traction and can send power to the wheels with grip as needed. They are typically designed for on‑road safety and weather conditions, with automatic adjustments and no driver‑selected low‑range. Four‑wheel drive (4WD) systems, especially with a low‑range transfer case, are traditionally used for deeper off‑road work and high‑traction demands, often with a selectable 4x4 mode and sometimes a dedicated low gear. Modern SUVs like the Durango generally use AWD as the everyday traction solution, while true low‑range 4WD is more common in trucks and dedicated off‑road rigs.

What the Durango offers today

For shoppers seeking clarity, here is a snapshot of how drivetrain options are typically presented on current Durango models and trims. The emphasis is on on‑road practicality and weather handling rather than serious rock‑crawling capability.

Availability: Durango models are offered with rear‑wheel drive (RWD) or all‑wheel drive (AWD), depending on trim and configuration. AWD is the common option for all‑season traction.

4WD designation: A traditional low‑range, selectable 4WD system with a transfer case is not part of the modern Durango lineup. The vehicle relies on AWD for traction management rather than a separate 4WD gear range.

Performance and powertrains: Both standard‑range and higher‑output engines can pair with AWD, delivering traction to front and rear wheels as needed. This setup prioritizes daily usability, efficiency, and safety in rain or light snow.

In practice, this means a current Durango owner or buyer focusing on daily driving, winter weather, and mild off‑road use benefits from AWD. True off‑roading with a dedicated low‑range 4WD mode isn’t a highlighted feature of the modern Durango lineup.

Practical considerations for buyers

When evaluating a Durango, it helps to weigh how the drivetrain choice aligns with your needs, including weather handling, towing, and maintenance implications.

Weather and traction: AWD improves grip in rain, sleet, and light snow, reducing wheelspin compared with a rear‑drive setup.

Off‑road capability: AWD supports light off‑road use, but it does not offer a low‑range transfer case for extreme terrain. Serious off‑roading typically requires a true 4WD system found in other vehicle types.

Fuel economy and maintenance: AWD generally adds weight and can reduce fuel efficiency versus a pure RWD setup; maintenance costs may be higher due to the additional drivetrain components.

For most buyers, AWD Durangos provide a balanced blend of everyday practicality, weather resilience, and reasonable capability, while a traditional 4WD with a low range remains outside the current Durango offering.

Summary

Overall, the Dodge Durango is configured with AWD as the primary traction system in modern models, and it does not include a traditional low‑range 4WD option in its current lineup. If you require genuine low‑range 4WD for serious off‑roading, you would need to look at other vehicles or older Durango generations with different drivetrain configurations. For daily driving, family hauling, and weather‑related driving, the Durango’s AWD is designed to deliver solid traction and confidence.

How do I tell if my vehicle is AWD?

You can tell if your car has AWD by checking for axles on both the front and rear, looking for an AWD button on the center console, checking for an AWD indicator light on the dashboard, or by looking for a badge on the exterior. If you see an "AWD" button, it means your car has the system, and a light that illuminates when you start the car is another clear indicator.
This video shows how to visually check for AWD components: 56sMotorCarNutYouTube · Nov 16, 2021
Under the car

Look for axles: Get a look underneath your car at the wheels. If you see axles (bars with a boot) going to all four wheels, it is likely an AWD or 4WD vehicle.
Front-wheel drive (FWD): You will only see axles going to the front wheels.
Rear-wheel drive (RWD): You will only see axles going to the rear wheels.

Inside the car

Look for a button: Check the center console for a button labeled "AWD" or one with a graphic of a car with two axles and the word "LOCK" underneath.
Look for a dashboard light: When you start your car, check the dashboard for an illuminated "AWD" light or a graphic of a car with four tires.
Check the menu: Some modern cars display drive-wheel information on the instrument cluster or infotainment screen. Navigate the menus to see if there is an option to view the AWD torque distribution.

This video explains what to look for inside the car to identify AWD: 56sLouison Automotive Inc.YouTube · Feb 21, 2022
Other methods

Check the exterior: Look for an "AWD" or "4WD" badge, often on the back of the car, though it's not always present.
Consult the owner's manual: The owner's manual will have the most accurate information on your vehicle's drivetrain.
Use a VIN decoder: You can use the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on a website like the one from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to look up your car's specifications, which will include the drivetrain type.

Is AWD the same as 4WD?

No, AWD (all-wheel drive) and 4WD (four-wheel drive) are not the same, although both send power to all four wheels. The main differences are that AWD automatically adjusts power distribution for on-road conditions, while 4WD is typically a part-time system that the driver must manually engage for more extreme off-road situations.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Automatic: Works automatically without driver input.
On-road focused: Designed to improve traction and handling on paved roads in various conditions, like rain, snow, or ice.
Varies power: Can automatically and continuously vary the power sent to each wheel.
Continuously engaged: Typically engaged all the time.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Manual engagement: The driver must manually switch it on for when extra traction is needed.
Off-road focused: Built for more severe conditions and rugged terrain, such as deep snow, mud, and rocks.
Fixed power: Sends a fixed amount of power to all four wheels once engaged, which is ideal for maximum traction and control in off-road situations.
Part-time or selectable: Can be switched between 4WD and 2WD (two-wheel drive), often with different settings like low and high ranges for different conditions.

Is a Dodge Durango AWD good in snow?

The AWD system enhances traction and control on slippery roads by distributing power to the wheels with the most grip. Whether you're dealing with snow, ice, or slush, this feature helps you stay stable and in control.

Is the Dodge Durango AWD or 4WD?

The choice between all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) for a Dodge Durango depends on your driving needs. AWD is best for everyday driving in various weather, especially on-road traction for snow and ice. 4WD is for more challenging off-road conditions, towing heavy loads, and provides extra torque in low-speed situations.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Automatic engagement: AWD systems typically operate automatically, detecting slippage and sending power to all four wheels as needed.
On-road performance: Excellent for drivers who want added stability and traction on paved roads during rain, snow, or ice.
Fuel efficiency: Generally offers better fuel efficiency than 4WD when the system is not actively engaged.
Best for: Commuters, families, and drivers who want the benefits of all-wheel grip without needing to manually select a driving mode.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Driver-controlled: You typically need to manually engage and disengage 4WD, which is ideal for specific, tough situations.
Off-road capability: A more robust system built for off-road driving, with a greater ability to handle mud, sand, and rocks.
Towing and heavy loads: Provides extra torque for towing and can be beneficial when descending steep hills with a heavy load.
Best for: Those who frequently drive on challenging terrain or who need extra capability for towing or in situations where a wheel could get stuck.

Which to choose?

Choose AWD if: You prioritize on-road safety and fuel efficiency and mainly drive in varying weather on paved roads.
Choose 4WD if: You plan on going off-road, frequently tow heavy loads, or need maximum traction for severe off-road conditions.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.