When it comes to driving in North Idaho’s snowy and icy winters, having the right vehicle with a reliable drivetrain can make all the difference. All-wheel drive (AWD) has become a popular option for those seeking increased safety, control, and peace of mind on slippery and unpredictable winter roads, and can be especially beneficial on North Idaho’s mountainous terrain and unpaved roads. But how does AWD compare to two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, and how can it benefit you for winter driving?
At Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, we sell several vehicles with AWD, as well as two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). Let’s examine how these drivetrains differ and their relative advantages.
What is All-Wheel Drive?
AWD is a drivetrain system that automatically distributes power to all four wheels of a vehicle. Unlike 2WD, where only two wheels (either the front (FWD) or rear (RWD)) receive power, AWD ensures that all four wheels are working together. This feature enhances traction on the road, allowing drivers to maintain control when grip is limited, such as on wet, icy, oily, gravelly, or snow-packed roads.
How All-Wheel Drive Works
AWD systems are sophisticated systems that can detect when a wheel loses traction and instantly adjust the power distribution to other wheels to compensate. While AWD doesn’t guarantee complete immunity from slipping, it significantly reduces the likelihood by delivering power to wheels with the most grip. This distribution of torque helps maintain control in conditions where traction is uneven, making it especially valuable in winter weather.
Unlike 4WD, a part-time system that requires manual activation and is most effective for off-road conditions, AWD is usually an “always-on” system. AWD systems are designed for on-road use and can handle moderate off-road conditions, making them highly versatile and user-friendly for most drivers who encounter various terrains and driving conditions in both summer and winter.
AWD vs. 2WD and 4WD
To understand the benefits of AWD, it helps to compare it to the other standard drivetrain options: 2WD and 4WD.
- 2WD: Vehicles with 2WD send power to only the two front or rear wheels. While 2WD can be efficient and lightweight, it’s not ideal for slippery roads because only two wheels provide power. This can cause the wheels to spin out on ice or snow, making 2WD less suited for winter driving.
- 4WD: Designed for more extreme off-road conditions or situations that require pulling heavy loads, 4WD sends power to all four wheels, similar to AWD, but it’s usually activated manually. This is perfect for navigating deep snow or mud but isn’t designed for continuous use on paved roads. Using 4WD when unnecessary can cause damage to your axle, transmission, brakes, and other components. It is also less efficient for everyday driving and uses more fuel, which is why it is a part-time option.
- AWD: AWD systems automatically distribute power to all four wheels and adjust based on road conditions. They offer consistent traction and stability on slippery roads and some off-road capabilities.
Ford Vehicles Available with All-Wheel Drive
Ford offers a variety of vehicles with AWD, providing options for different preferences, whether you’re looking for an SUV, a truck, or a crossover. Here are Ford vehicles available with AWD:
- Ford Escape – A versatile compact SUV with excellent fuel efficiency and advanced AWD for confident handling.
- Ford Edge – A midsize SUV with plenty of space, comfort, and Ford’s intelligent AWD system.
- Ford Explorer – A three-row SUV known for its capability, spacious interior, and advanced AWD technology.
- Ford Expedition – A full-size SUV with spacious interior and cargo space with an AWD option.
- Ford Bronco – With several different styles, this rugged SUV has impressive off-road capabilities, perfect for North Idaho’s varied terrain.
- Ford F-150 –This best-selling truck’s AWD option is perfect for those needing towing power and winter capability.
- Ford Maverick – Ford’s compact pickup truck with AWD available, making it versatile and efficient for winter driving.
How AWD Helps in Winter
When winter brings heavy snowfall and icy roads or you encounter backcountry routes that aren’t plowed regularly, AWD vehicles offer several key advantages:
- Enhanced Traction on Snow and Ice: AWD helps distribute power to wheels with the most grip, reducing the risk of slipping and spinning out on icy or snowy roads.
- Better Stability in Slippery Conditions: AWD systems can help maintain stability by continuously adjusting the torque to each wheel, which is particularly useful on winding and hilly roads.
- Increased Confidence on Unpaved Roads: North Idaho has a mix of paved and unpaved roads, especially in rural areas. AWD provides the necessary traction for navigating gravel or muddy roads that can become slick or uneven in winter.
- Assistance on Steep or Icy Hills: AWD provides additional control for driving on steep inclines, making it easier to ascend and descend hills safely.
Test Drive a 2025 AWD Ford Vehicle at Mike White Ford
Safety is always the highest priority when driving, so if you are currently driving a 2WD vehicle, consider a vehicle upgrade to improve your winter driving experience. Mike White Ford, with showrooms in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, invites you to explore our selection of AWD vehicles.
Our knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect Ford model that fits your needs and lifestyle. Whether it’s a versatile SUV like the Ford Escape or the rugged Bronco, you’ll appreciate the added security and confidence you can experience with AWD. Visit Mike White Ford today; our team is here to answer any questions and demonstrate how AWD technology can enhance your winter driving experience.