What Is the Difference Between 4MATIC® AWD & 4WD?

If you’re looking for some extra traction on your Rye adventures, you’ll want a vehicle with 4MATIC® AWD or 4WD. The new Mercedes-Benz lineup features an incredible selection of vehicles that come with 4MATIC® AWD or 4WD so you can have some extra confidence in your Stamford drives.

While 4MATIC® AWD and 4WD are used interchangeably, they technically do operate differently. So, what is the difference between 4MATIC® AWD and 4WD? Our experts at Mercedes-Benz of Greenwich will help you find out today! Then, let us know when you’re ready to trade in your vehicle for something with 4MATIC® AWD or 4WD! Here are some questions we’ll help you answer below:

• What is the difference between 4MATIC® AWD & 4WD?
• Is 4MATIC® AWD the same as 4WD?
• How does 4MATIC® AWD & 4WD operate?
• Is 4MATIC® AWD or 4WD better?

Is 4MATIC® AWD the Same as 4WD?

So, is 4MATIC® AWD the same as 4WD? Technically, there are some differences in how they operate. While they both send power to all four wheels so you can enjoy safer New Canaan travels, the technicalities of their operation are different. Here’s how both systems work:

4MATIC® AWD vs. 4WD: 4MATIC® AWD Differences

4MATIC® All-wheel drive sends power from the engine to the front and rear wheels depending on which wheel needs extra traction. Most of the time, 4MATIC® AWD operates with power being sent to the front or rear wheels under normal driving conditions.

However, as soon as slip is detected in any wheel, power is immediately sent to those wheels for extra traction and stability. The benefit of 4MATIC® AWD is it can maximize fuel efficiency since power isn’t always being sent to every wheel. Vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class or the Mercedes-Benz GLS feature 4MATIC® AWD as an option.

4MATIC® AWD vs. 4WD: 4WD Differences

Four-wheel drive operates similarly to 4MATIC® AWD as it can send power to all four wheels. However, the main difference is that 4WD systems typically have the ability to send power to specific wheels on each axle. Additionally, most 4WD systems are full-time 4WD which means there’s always power being sent to every wheel.

Most of the time, 4WD systems are much more robust and can typically be found in vehicles with a truck-based platform that needs to be off-road capable. Vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV feature a 4WD system.

Difference Between 4MATIC® AWD & 4WD Performance

One of the main differences between 4MATIC® AWD and 4WD is their performance. Technically, neither 4MATIC® AWD nor 4WD is better than the other. At the end of the day, it all depends on what you’re looking for from your vehicle.

If you want your fuel-efficiency performance to offer outstanding mpg specifications, then 4MATIC® AWD might be a better fit for your needs. On the other hand, if you want something rugged with incredible off-road performance, a vehicle with 4WD may be the smarter choice.

Compare 4MATIC® AWD vs. 4WD Vehicles With Mercedes-Benz of Greenwich!

If you need assistance from our Greenwich team to help you compare 4MATIC® AWD and 4WD vehicles, we’re more than happy to help. Connect with us online today for further assistance!