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AWD vs. FWD in an SUV
I live in the Chicago area where we can receive anywhere from very little snow during the winter to over 60" in any given year. I am considering purchasing a new Volvo XC60 and while I understand the basics of having AWD, I like the gas mileage on the FWD even better! Any words of wisdom to help me make my decision?
RE: AWD vs. FWD in an SUV by Anonymous
I recommend you using a Dowsing rod. It is 100% Nerd approved to work on anything.
RE: AWD vs. FWD in an SUV by VnutZ
Naturally the inclusion of more moving parts – transfer case, another drive shaft, another differential and more axles mean more friction/drag on the engine. If you’re a cautious and experienced driver than AWD isn’t necessary. But in the case of non-American automotive engineering (though I will tip my hat some to Ford’s export only models) I don’t see the AWD impact on mileage to outweigh the performance and safety benefits that Audis can give you. Just my two cents.
RE: AWD vs. FWD in an SUV by Anonymous
Test drive the XC90 and the XC70 with AWD before you make your final pick. I really liked the 2008 XC70 AWD Turbo in the snow when I had it for a loaner car while my S40 was getting oil changed. I own a 2006 S40 T5 AWD and love it! Only thing I cannot learn are AWD and turns….I tend to slide a bit. GOOD LUCK!
RE: AWD vs. FWD in an SUV by Anonymous
AWD = Best option in snow and ice prone areas (better than 4WD option – because 4WD has to be engaged when weather is deemed bad – black ice doesn’t wait for you to decide)
FWD = best option for MPG – better in snow than a RWD because the motor weight is sitting on the drive wheels (unless you’re driving an ol’ Bug)
RWD = Best option for donuts and fishtailing fun.
4WD best for off-roading but only because 4WD option is built into vehicles that are built for off-roading.
-—————————————————————Great Winter Tires – more valuable than all of these drive modes.
A competent and reasonably safe driver – even more valuable than the good tires (but just barely (tires make all the difference))
-————————————————————-I’ll keep buying my AWD cars and trucks – because ’grandma’s house is down 850 miles of lake effect snow blown icy highways and I’ve got important things in the back that need to get there in one piece.