What Is The Difference Between AWD, 4WD, and 4xe?

If you’re shopping for a new pickup truck or SUV, you’ll see models featuring All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD), or a 4xe system. All three are engineered to maximize tire grip across various terrains and weather conditions. But what does all of this actually mean, and which is best for your lifestyle?

​Let’s take a look at each option to help you decide which powertrain is the best fit.

Understanding AWD (All-Wheel Drive)

All-wheel drive (AWD) continuously distributes power to all four wheels simultaneously, providing consistent traction on the road. It uses sophisticated sensors to monitor wheel power and automatically deliver more power where it is needed. When driving an AWD vehicle, such as the 2026 Dodge Durango, you don’t need to manually monitor torque because the system handles it automatically for a smooth, comfortable ride.

AWD systems come in two variations:

• Full-time AWD: Power is constantly applied to all four tires.
• Part-time AWD: Power is applied to either the front wheels or the rear wheels, but not both at once.

This is an excellent option for daily driving, especially if you live in an area that frequently gets rain or snow.

Understanding 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive)

Like AWD, four-wheel drive (4WD) is designed to deliver torque to all four wheels. The key difference is that you’ll be able to engage or disengage the system manually. This gives you manual control over how much power your tires deploy.

4WD also has full-time and part-time versions:

• Full-time 4WD: All four wheels apply force continuously.
• Part-time 4WD: Also known as two-wheel drive (2WD), only two wheels apply force at any given time until the driver engages 4WD.

A 4WD system is the best choice for off-roading. When you encounter rough conditions like mud, deep puddles, or bumpy trails in a heavy-duty truck, such as the 2024 Ram 1500, 4WD allows you to optimize your drive.

Understanding 4xe (Four-Wheel Electric Drive)

The four-wheel electric drive (4xe) system combines an electric drivetrain with a conventional gas engine. Similar to 4WD, the 4xe is capable of off-roading. It also makes long road trips better by allowing you to use both the electric motor and the gas tank. Additionally, the 4xe system offers more flexibility than AWD and 4WD, allowing you to choose the best mode based for current road conditions.

For instance, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe model provides three distinct driving modes:

1. Electric Mode: Uses only electric power to maximize torque.
2. Hybrid Mode: Combines the turbo engine with the electric motor for efficiency and power.
3. eSave Mode: Preserves the electric battery charge for later use.

If you own a Jeep 4xe, you can find the nearest charging station using the vehicle’s built-in network.

Find Your Perfect Drivetrain at Legacy CDJR 

Whether you’re looking for an SUV to fit the whole family, a new RAM truck, or a new Jeep for your adventures, choosing the right drivetrain is important to make sure you’re getting the power and control you need. 

Check out our inventory of new CDJR vehicles, then stop in today for a test drive to find the right model and the right drivetrain for you!

Then visit our dealership in Florence, SC, to test drive an AWD or 4WD model. While you’re here, be sure to ask about our 4xe models, including the electric Jeep Wrangler, to experience Jeep’s impressive hybrid system. 

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