These days, automakers are offering more sophisticated all-wheel-drive
systems than ever. The advancements in this area are in many ways good news
for car buyers looking for cold-weather and off-road vehicle capabilities.
But there can also be a lot confusion, especially with the growing number of
technologies across dozens of manufacturers. The bottom line is, every AWD
system is different. Here's a rundown of four of the most well-engineered
systems on the market today.
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
All-wheel drive has always been synonymous with Subaru. Unlike many setups
that are adapted from 2-wheel drive, Subaru's symmetrical system starts out
and remains in this format, intended to provide power continuously to each
wheel in all conditions. True to its name, symmetrical AWD is exactly that:
symmetrical. This unique hardware balance gives Subaru vehicles greater on-
and off-road stability due to the setup's even weight distribution. The main
advantages of this system are balance, control and traction, making it a
favorite in cold-weather climates.
Audi quattro
Audi quattro is the most noteworthy of all-wheel-drive systems among upscale
carmakers. Its goal, like other setups, is to provide increased traction
and grip. But because it derives from a performance application, quattro is
very much a delivery system for an overall sportier driving experience. This
highly sophisticated system responds almost instantly to variances in
individual wheel speed and then sends more power to the wheels that have the
most traction. The result is exceptional cornering and optimized
acceleration. In addition to its performance attributes, quattro is very
capable in wintry conditions. It uses a number of advanced electronic
control systems that together create an advantage over other all-wheel-drive
technologies. But expect to pay more than others, as well.
Acura Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Although Acura's SH-AWD is very capable in snowy or wet conditions, the
system is best known for its torque vectoring formula, which elevates
cornering prowess. By channeling as much as 70 percent of power to either
the front or rear axle -- and then also to the individual rear wheels -- SH-
AWD greatly reduces the chances of losing traction through corners. An
acceleration bias is given to the outside rear wheel over the front wheels,
which essentially mimics 4-wheel steering and keeps the car pointed in the
right direction. The end result is you stay on the pavement instead of
sliding off of it.
Ford's Intelligent All-Wheel Drive
Sending up to 100 percent of power to the front or rear wheels helps make
Ford's Intelligent All-Wheel Drive a real asset in snowy or wet weather.
This transfer of power results in better traction all the way around. And to
optimize road grip and handling even more, this tech-savvy setup can assess
road conditions 20 times faster than the blink of an eye and adjust to any
changes in the road surface almost instantly. This system also compensates
for oversteer and understeer to make the vehicle more stable and predictable
through cornering maneuvers.
Whether you're looking for more all-weather capability or better overall
handling and performance, a competent AWD system is the answer to a more
sure-footed drive -- especially in colder climates. For winter driving, all
four of the systems we outlined are outstanding. But if you're looking for a
real performance edge and don't mind paying the premium, Audi's quattro is
hard to beat.