What Drive Type will Help you Combat Winter Weather?

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The temperatures are dropping, dark clouds fill the sky, night time is falling earlier, you know what that means? Winter is just around the corner and whilst winter is home to many great things such as skiing, tobogganing, candy canes, and warm drinks galore, it is also home to some less-favourable weather conditions. Ice, snow, slush, sleet, rain, and salt riddle the roads in the colder months, hence why switching to winter tires that can grip these surfaces better is imperative. Whilst switching to winter tires is essential and typically the first step once the temperature drops, many don’t consider another key factor that affects a vehicle’s performance in winter: drive-type. There are four drive-types and each one determines how a vehicle drives in various conditions. Doing a throughout vehicle comparison can help you find the best vehicle to combat the harsh winter weather and also provide a smooth, comfortable drive all year-round. The big question now is, what drive-type can withstand winter and all it has to offer?

All-wheel-drive (AWD)

A significant amount of vehicles are AWD and for good reason. AWD vehicles tend to be extremely safe and can easily adapt to a variety of surfaces. An AWD system involves engine power being sent to all four wheels which will give the traction needed to get through snowy roads. In comparison to other types of drive, all-wheel-drive is by far the best when it comes to its ability to combat the road elements winter throws upon us. AWD was once only available in specific makes and models, however, due to its impressive performance, it is now the standard with most makers. All-wheel-drive vehicles are also the easiest to handle in such conditions, making them a great choice, especially for those new to the world of driving. Adorned with a set of quality winter tires, an AWD vehicle is sure to keep you safe even on the harshest winter days.

Front-wheel-drive (FWD)

Front-wheel-drive vehicles weight distribution is shifted towards the front unlike all-wheel-drive vehicles, where the weight is distributed equally amongst all axels. FWD vehicles do an impressive job when put up against winter weather. The weight of the engine sits on top of the drive wheels which allows it to push through some pretty nasty weather. Whilst you will have the ability to safely drive from A to B (which let’s face it, that’s pretty much what we need when driving), you will be sacrificing some performance. Due to the displacement of power being shifted to the front, FWD vehicles typically lack in the speed department. The wheels that steer the car are also responsible for propelling the vehicle which in turn, will cost you some points on the speed and performance scale. Albeit, you most likely don’t want to be doing any high-speed maneuvers in the winter. FWD vehicles are an economical choice for those who like to take it easy, enjoy the drive, and get through some rough weather.

Four-wheel-drive (4WD)

If you’re looking for a vehicle that will take on the toughest of terrains, look no further than a 4WD vehicle. This drive type is typically seen in trucks and all-terrain vehicles. This drive-type works in a couple different ways, operating as a four-wheel-drive or, at times, a 2-wheel-drive vehicle. When in 2WD mode, the vehicle’s traction drops, ergo, lessening the grip the vehicle has on the road. When in full 4WD mode, however, these vehicles are designed to handle various, difficult terrains including deep, heavy snow, slush, mud, and unpaved roads. Similar to a FWD vehicle, 4WD sacrifices speed but makes up for that with its powerful drivetrain. Do consider the fact that 4WD vehicles carry a lot of additional weight and tend to be more costly. If you drive short distances are don’t partake in much or any offroading, you are not getting bang for your buck. If, however, you enjoy off-roading in the summer and just getting through the roads safely in the winter, a 4WD is the vehicle for you.

Rear-wheel-drive (RWD)

Speed, power, performance- all qualities that rear-wheel-drive vehicles possess. Most sports/performance vehicles are RWD, which comes as no surprise when you see the power and speed these vehicles give off. With RWD vehicles, power is sent to the rear wheels, propelling your vehicle from the back when you step on the gas. Whilst this all sounds great, rear-wheel-drive vehicles are the less-favourable when it comes to vehicles fit to endure winter roads. They are infamous for fishtailing and breaking traction on snowy roads and sometimes, simply on wet surfaces. Whilst they are still drivable in the winter and many Canadians who own a RWD adapt to how they work, they require caution and care when driving. They are incredibly fast vehicles and while they will still give you that speed you want on snowy surfaces, it is best to slow down on harsh days to avoid a dangerous fishtail or spinout. If you are all about performance and speed, a RWD vehicle is best suited for you, but keep in mind, you will have to put all that on hold come the winter months to ensure you are in the safest position you can be in. Every drive-type has its ups and downs. Some perform between on smooth surfaces and others perform better amongst harsh elements. It’s imperative you understand the differences of all the drives prior to purchasing a vehicle to ensure you are getting the best possible vehicle for your situation, your family, your driving experience, and your location. Need help finding a vehicle that will brace the unpredictable variables of a Canadian winter? We can help! Contact us today and be prepared for whatever mother nature throws your way!

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