AWD Cars
Vehicles do not really need 4×4 (four wheel drive) capabilities unless they are off road in mud, snow or towing. The low and high gears might require activation under those circumstances. Rarely if ever will this be a requirement. Having them in your cars is not really worth the money except as a status symbol.
However, having an AWD (All Wheel Drive) system can be beneficial. The difference between the two modes 4×4 and AWD cars is that the AWD is always on. No worry to go through a process of switching from front wheel drive to AWD, because you are always driving in the AWD mode. The extra use of gasoline from constantly remaining in this setup is negligible.
AWD is well known in the Subaru line and Jeep has the AWD Compass. The AWD vehicle looks a bit more like a car than a truck. The 4×4 vehicles appear as trucks or light trucks.
It is one less thing to weigh on your mind when you have your auto in one mode all the time and do not need to switch from front wheel drive to 4×4 mode which usually must follow a procedure. This procedure would have you stop the car, and switch the mechanism and make sure you are either in Park or Neutral when the switch is made.
AWD is the preferable route to go for those looking for simplicity in driving. Your car might not look like a truck, but impressing people is not what driving is all about. Do a little more research and decide for yourself which route to follow.
