AWD System

[GMBoy]

I like AWD but only the systems that have a split all the time front to rear not the all one axle "until needed". Example, my 06 Sierra Denali is always a 60/40 split (frt/rr) until traction dictates sending more power one way or the other. It works flawlessly.

The systems that run 100% one axle then send power when slip is detected is not acceptable to me because often times it is too late and you're stuck. I remember a big snow storm when I was in Baltimore working at the GM plant making Astros and Safaris. We had just changed model years and there were still previous model years to be shipped. I think it was 2000 (I have to look) model that they went from a split AWD system like my Denali to an on demand system. With the deep snow the old models where much more in control then the new model....we were testing them from a standing start, a drive course and slides and the on demand system was never as good as the older split f/r system.

ULtimately 4WD with an AUTO mode is the best system. You can lock 4WD or not.

 

[Donald]

For most people the Subaru asymmetric AWD seems ideal. If you need even more traction in snow then add snow tires for the winter.

That is likely to get you through snow to a depth where the undercarriage of the car starts to drag in the snow.

The Subaru AWD also help in wet or other slippery road conditions.

It's not as good (for pure traction in snow) as the 4WD in my pickup that locks differentials when put in 4WD and can only be used in snow or mud. The pickup is also higher off the ground.

 

[pezzy84]

I think the more common Haldex based systems have caught up to the Torsen systems and are pretty much equal at this point as far as performance. Outside of pushing a CUV with AWD to the limits on some off road trail I don't think any difference in performance would be notable on your typical snow/ice packed commute.

My departed MB E350 4Matic was a Haldex system with a dry road 10/90 split (F/R) and as I understood could do up to 60/40 split either way. I was able to test it out on a snow packed uphill standing start and the power shifting across all 4 wheels was pretty obvious when I matted the accelerator, but I think on the side to side transfer it was the car braking the spinning wheel but don't quote me on that.

 

[Wolf359]

Is Scotty Kilmer even a real person? Or a computer generated idiot?

You don't need a computer to generate idiots.

 

[edyvw]

I like AWD but only the systems that have a split all the time front to rear not the all one axle "until needed". Example, my 06 Sierra Denali is always a 60/40 split (frt/rr) until traction dictates sending more power one way or the other. It works flawlessly.

The systems that run 100% one axle then send power when slip is detected is not acceptable to me because often times it is too late and you're stuck. I remember a big snow storm when I was in Baltimore working at the GM plant making Astros and Safaris. We had just changed model years and there were still previous model years to be shipped. I think it was 2000 (I have to look) model that they went from a split AWD system like my Denali to an on demand system. With the deep snow the old models where much more in control then the new model....we were testing them from a standing start, a drive course and slides and the on demand system was never as good as the older split f/r system.

ULtimately 4WD with an AUTO mode is the best system. You can lock 4WD or not.

That is what tires are made for.

 

[dkryan]

I always thought AWD systems were either “on” all the time or were at least performing as WylieC described above.

Our previous SUV (‘05 Highlander) had AWD and you had no control over how it functioned.

However, the Hyundai Santa Fe in my signature is described as AWD, yet it has a button that allows you to select “Low” with the caution your speed should never exceed 20 mph.

I thought only 4WD systems allowed for selecting the range.

 

[GMBoy]

That is what tires are made for.

Yeah tires make a difference but re read my post......same vehicles had same tires but different AWD systems. So your point in this example is meaningless. But to your point, a 2wd with better tires can often do better than a 4wd with crappy tires

 

[UG_Passat]

I always thought AWD systems were either “on” all the time or were at least performing as WylieC described above.

Our previous SUV (‘05 Highlander) had AWD and you had no control over how it functioned.

However, the Hyundai Santa Fe in my signature is described as AWD, yet it has a button that allows you to select “Low” with the caution your speed should never exceed 20 mph.

I thought only 4WD systems allowed for selecting the range.

Your 05 Highlander had a fixed 50:50 split system.

The "low button" basically sets the bias to 50:50 for low speeds only. Before the trend of terrain management knobs/buttons to mimick Land Rover terrain management system, many of the FWD-until slip systems have a "AWD lock" button that sets the bias to 50:50 for low speeds

 

[ollie]

Is Scotty Kilmer even a real person? Or a computer generated idiot?

Easy there on Scotty. He is a down to earth nice guy and does his best to help out the consumer. We may not agree with all his philosophies but it is apparent by the growth of his YouTube channel that he is well respected.

I personally want my next vehicle to be AWD for the fact it's safer in those few situations that I need the extra traction.

 

[edyvw]

Yeah tires make a difference but re read my post......same vehicles had same tires but different AWD systems. So your point in this example is meaningless. But to your point, a 2wd with better tires can often do better than a 4wd with crappy tires

Well, that is what those systems are made for. My SIenna with snow tires dances around anything with A/T tires and full 4WD.
Those small SUV's are generally better as winter vehicles. No one died from being stuck. But heavy 4WD vehicles are not best handling and braking vehicles. In icy conditions those car based SUV's handle better, brake better.
Put snow tires on them, and they can do much more, but most importantly they will stop and handle better.