A Beginner’s Guide to Drivelines: FWD, RWD, AWD, 4WD

2022 Chevy Camaro with the top down drives along the coast.

If you are doing your homework before buying a car at our Chevy dealership in Cookeville and you keep seeing drivelines mentioned with words and abbreviations you don’t understand, we can help. The expert team at Carlen Chevrolet in Cookeville, TN, has put together this introductory guide to understanding drivelines, including your different options, how they work, and how to make the right choice.

What is a Car’s Driveline?

Driveline is the complex system of parts that deliver the energy from a vehicle engine to the wheels. Believe it or not, power is often not sent to all four wheels simultaneously. There are four major driveline types, each offering different benefits for handling and capability. Depending on where you plan to live and travel and what you are looking to do with your Chevy car, truck, or SUV, the driveline can be an essential factor to consider.

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

FWD sends all the engine’s power into the car’s two front wheels. Because the weight of this driveline is in the front, pushing the vehicle forward, FWD is a great option for climbing slight inclines or handling snow, rain, and ice. Often, FWD vehicles, like the Chevy Malibu, will have more room inside for passengers and cargo storage since the mechanics are in the front.

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

RWD sends the power to the back two wheels, which improves the overall weight distribution of the mechanics, offers a balanced ride and excellent handling, and is ideal for hauling heavy loads. RWD is found in models as diverse as the Chevrolet Camaro and the Chevy Silverado 1500.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

AWD provides even distribution of engine power to all four wheels, ensuring you always have the best traction available when needed. If you plan to do a bit of mild off-roading or visit areas with heavy snowfall, AWD vehicles give you the added traction you desire.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Like AWD, 4WD is designed to give even power distribution to all four wheels. Unlike AWD, 4WD is built for extreme outdoor conditions. Are you conquering steep hills, driving through water, or forging your own path? Do it with a 4WD Chevrolet Tahoe.

Find the Perfect Driveline in a New Chevy Model

At Carlen Chevrolet, we specialize in helping customers just like you find the perfect car to match your needs. Contact your Chevy dealer in Cookeville, TN, for answers to any questions you may have or to set up a test drive of a supremely capable new Chevy vehicle.