4WD SYSTEMS EXPLAINED WHICH ONE WORKS FOR YOU?

With South Africans increasingly turning to SUVs or double cabs to suit their lifestyles, it’s important to select a vehicle with a drivetrain sufficient for its intended use. A typical mid-size SUV featuring AWD without low range may perform adequately on dirt roads and offer improved traction on low grip, sandy or muddy surfaces, but it’s not going to be great for tackling dunes or off-road trails.

Experts will know that in addition to the drive-train system, off-road capability depends on several other factors; including tyres, ground clearance and suspension articulation, not to mention driver technique. However, we’re going to focus on the details of some of the more popular drivetrain systems, details and characteristics of which are often not included in manufacturers’ brochures or press releases.

The drivetrain systems typically found on these vehicles can be categorised