Six Star Magazine Six Star Magazine Spring 2015 | Page 31

when road surfaces take a turn for the

mission and centre differential are

worse — this ensures high levels of control,

compact, efficient and set along the centre

symmetrical full-time AWD, there is the

stability and confidence. Even in everyday

line of the vehicle. This layout creates a

Subaru driving experience itself. Sending

driving conditions, less power is sent to each

number of tangible benefits, including

power to all four wheels generates more grip,

individual wheel compared to a 2WD or a

near perfect balance side-to-side, more

more predictable handling, better agility and

part-time AWD system, so the wheels are

direct and smoother power delivery and

greater control. These advantages result in a

less likely to slip and lose traction.

increased fuel efficiency.

stronger connection between the driver and

With a sudden change in traction or in

This design also incorporates fewer

Over and above all the benefits of Subaru

the vehicle, an increased sense of confidence

direction, the full-time AWD system has

components than the typical AWD system,

a clear advantage over all other systems.

which means reduced complexity, greater

It’s already on guard and ready to respond

durability and lower maintenance costs over

system shines even brighter. When one

before the unexpected even has the

the life of the vehicle. It’s also worth noting

wheel hits a slippery or loose surface, all

chance to happen.

here that AWD is not 4-wheel drive (4WD),

four wheels remain powered, unlike most

although the naming of these systems still

full-time AWD systems that are constantly

gets confused and confusing.

shuttling power around.

AWD systems are
not all equal

Both AWD and 4WD send power to all

and more enjoyment behind the wheel.
When driving conditions worsen, the

Sending power to all four wheels in a

While other manufacturers often bolt

four wheels, but 4WD systems are more

balanced manner creates greater stability

an AWD system on to existing vehicle

commonly used for trucks and truck-based

and captures more traction, outperforming

designs, Subaru started from the ground

SUVs and have a high and low gear for serious

2WD, on-demand AWD and even other

up to engineer a total system with every

off-road use. In short, 4WD is made for hard

full-time AWD systems. This is the secret to

component designed to support AWD.

work; Subaru AWD systems, on the other

Subaru’s success arou