What is the difference between AWD and Advanced 4WD Ford Maverick?
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, I often encounter questions about the various drivetrain options available in modern vehicles. One common inquiry is the difference between All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Advanced Four-Wheel Drive (4WD), particularly in the context of the Ford Maverick. In this article, we will explore these two systems, their functionalities, and how they impact your driving experience.
What is All-Wheel Drive (AWD)?
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system designed to provide power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously. This system is typically found in cars and crossovers and is engineered for on-road performance and improved traction in various weather conditions.
- Power Distribution: AWD systems automatically distribute power between the front and rear wheels as needed, enhancing grip on slippery surfaces.
- Driver Engagement: Most AWD systems are fully automatic, meaning the driver does not need to engage or disengage the system manually.
- Performance: AWD is ideal for everyday driving, providing stability and control in rain, snow, and light off-road conditions.
What is Advanced Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)?
Advanced Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) is a more robust system typically found in trucks and SUVs, designed for off-road capabilities and challenging terrains. The Ford Maverick, equipped with an advanced 4WD system, offers enhanced performance for adventurous drivers.
- Power Distribution: 4WD systems can be engaged or disengaged by the driver, allowing for more control over when to use the system.
- Terrain Handling: Advanced 4WD is built to handle rough terrains, including mud, rocks, and steep inclines, making it suitable for off-road adventures.
- Low Range Gear: Many 4WD systems include a low-range gear option, providing additional torque for climbing steep hills or navigating through difficult conditions.
Key Differences Between AWD and Advanced 4WD
While both AWD and Advanced 4WD provide power to all four wheels, their applications and functionalities differ significantly:
- Usage: AWD is primarily for on-road use, while Advanced 4WD is designed for off-road conditions.
- Driver Control: AWD operates automatically, whereas 4WD requires driver input to engage.
- Complexity: Advanced 4WD systems are generally more complex and heavier, designed to withstand harsher conditions.
Conclusion
Choosing between AWD and Advanced 4WD in the Ford Maverick ultimately depends on your driving needs. If you primarily drive on paved roads and occasionally encounter adverse weather, AWD may be the best option. However, if you plan to venture off the beaten path, the Advanced 4WD system will provide the necessary capabilities to tackle challenging terrains. At Kevin's Autos, we are here to help you understand your vehicle's features and ensure it performs at its best, no matter the conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Ford intelligent 4WD and AWD?
A Ford Intelligent 4-Wheel Drive system is similar to AWD but provides the extra ability to handle rugged (or severe) off-road conditions, like sand, water, mud, rocky trails or steep hills with little natural traction. It can handle heavier loads than AWD. Typically you will find 4WD in larger SUVs, jeeps, and trucks.
What is the difference between Ford Advanced 4WD and AWD?
4WD is mainly designed for off-road use, and it can provide more power and traction on sand, mud, snow, or rocky terrain. AWD – Power can be sent to the front or rear axle, but can also be sent to the driver or passenger side.
Is AWD more powerful than 4WD?
Advantages of Four-Wheel Drive
The 4WD system is rugged and can easily handle extreme off-road conditions. It allows manual control of the system. Hence, the driver can use it as and when required. A four-wheel-drive system provides more pulling power than an AWD car.
How many miles per gallon does a Ford Maverick AWD get?
Get ready for fuel economy that redefines the pickup truck, because the Ford Maverick MPG gets up to 23/30 (City/Highway)1 with its AWD EcoBoost engine and up to an incredible EPA-estimated 42/35 MPG (City/Highway)2 in its hybrid configuration.
What's the difference between AWD and 4WD all the time?
All-wheel drive requires no driver input and is best suited to slippery roads. Four-wheel drive is usually a part-time system requiring the driver to engage and disengage it. It's engineered more for extreme weather and off-roading.
Is Ford intelligent 4WD always on?
The intelligent 4WD system continuously monitors vehicle conditions and adjusts the power distribution between the front and rear wheels. It combines transparent all-surface operation with highly capable four-wheel drive. The 4WD system is always active and requires no driver input.
Is the Maverick AWD all the time?
The Lariat trim of the 2025 Maverick undergoes a notable transformation. Previously, buyers had the option of a front-wheel drive (FWD) configuration with the hybrid engine. However, the latest model shifts gears, making the hybrid AWD setup standard for the Lariat.
What is advanced part-time all-wheel drive?
The second type of AWD is called “Part-Time AWD.” Under normal driving conditions, this system delivers power to either the front or the rear wheels. If electronic sensors detect a change in road conditions, the system will automatically send power to all four wheels to improve traction and handling.
Is full time 4WD better than part-time 4WD?
A full-time 4WD system will be able to adjust torque delivery to each individual wheel as necessary, meaning you can use it on any road in any condition. It is simply operating all the time. Part-time doesn't quite work the same way, and in fact, part-time 4×4 should not be used all of the time.
What is Ford Advanced 4X4?
Ford's Advanced 4WD system is an automatic on-demand system with four settings – 2H, 4A, 4H and 4L. When set to 4A (4WD Auto), the on-demand system is fully active and constantly monitors traction conditions, sending a proportional amount of torque to the front wheels as needed.
