Drive Systems

The drive system determines which wheels control the movement of the vehicle. Depending on the car you're interested in, you may have the option of Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) or (4x4).

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

The most common on compact and family cars, Front-Wheel Drive is seen as delivering the best combination of fuel efficiency and all-season performance. The components also take up less space, which means there is more passenger space and/or cargo room.

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Generally the system of choice for sports cars and most trucks, Rear-Wheel Drive has the reputation of having the best handling and hauling characteristics. As well, the components can be easier to access if repairs are necessary.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Also known as "4x4", Four-Wheel Drive allows the transfer of power to all four wheels on driver demand. Vehicles operating in Four-Wheel Drive mode will provide more traction than the same vehicle operating in two-wheel drive. Many 4x4s have a "low" range for extremely poor driving conditions. Most 4x4s run on Rear-Wheel Drive when the four-wheel system is not engaged. Running a vehicle in Four-Wheel Drive will increase fuel consumption and can lead to excessive wear on drive components.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Finally, All-Wheel Drive (AWD), as the name suggests, allows power to automatically be transferred to various wheels for increased traction. The benefit AWD offers is convenience: drivers don't have to decide whether their cargo or the road conditions warrant switching between the two- or four-wheel modes. Many AWD systems operate in front- or Rear-Wheel Drive mode most of the time and automatically engage the other wheels when necessary. This may result in increased fuel efficiency compared to Four-Wheel Drive.

2011 models shown