Here are the criteria that Edmunds uses to determine if a vehicle is 4WD (four-wheel drive) or AWD (all-wheel drive). Please note that the names some manufacturers use are marketing terms and do not take into account actual functionality.
4WD — Part-Time
- Four wheels driven or Two wheels driven
- Requires driver input to activate
- Has transfer case with 2-speed capability
- Very good on tough terrain or off-roading.
- Not meant to be driven in 4WD (4WD-Hi or 4WD-low) on high-traction surfaces (dry pavement) or severe damage will occur (because vehicle does not have a center differential to allow different speeds between front and rear axles)
- For high-traction surfaces (dry pavement) the 2WD mode must be used
4WD — On-Demand
- Not part-time or AWD but a combination of both types of functionality
- Generally will allow driver to choose several different 4WD modes, including 2WD
- Driver should be able to choose an "AWD" mode
- Center Differential: Manual or Viscous
4WD — Full-Time
- Also called Permanent 4WD
- Four wheels driven
- Not part-time or AWD but a combination of both types of functionality
- Generally will allow driver to choose only either 4WD Hi or 4WD Lo modes
- 2WD is not available
- Center Differential: Manual or Viscous
- 4WD system that can be used on all surfaces (addition of a differential in the transfer case allows for the Full-Time 4WD)
- System was created to make 4WD more usable in everyday driving.
AWD
- 4 wheels driven
- Selectable electronically controlled modes/settings: available
- 4WD-Lo mode is NOT AVAILABLE
- Designed for improved road safety, not intended for off-road use
- Center Differential: Mechanical or Viscous
- Limited Slip: Center
For more details, see AWD vs. 4WD: What's the Difference?
Not sure which is right for you? Read Do You Need an All-Wheel-Drive or Four-Wheel-Drive Car?