Why purchase a 4x4 in Quebec?

As you probably noticed, there is a growing number of 4-wheel drive vehicles on the market, from cars to SUVs to trucks. But what is the reason behind this trend? Why are drivers in Quebec turning to this type of vehicle?

Your Elite Chrysler dealer in Sherbrooke tells you all about the different 4WD drivetrains, including their differences and the reasons why they are a smart choice in Quebec!

4WD or AWD: are they the same thing?

People often confuse 4x4 (or 4WD) systems with all-wheel drive (AWD) systems. While both systems allow the vehicle to have 4-wheel drive, their components are different and they were not designed for the same purpose.

In fact, true 4x4 systems are mostly found in SUVs and trucks with serious off-road capabilities, such as the Jeep line-up or even RAM trucks. As well as delivering great off-road capabilities, a 4x4 vehicle usually boasts far greater towing capabilities than an all-wheel drive vehicle, allowing it to tow very heavy loads.

Lastly, a 4x4 system usually has a high and low gear range. The low gear range uses a very low gear ratio to deliver increased traction. In many cases, 4x4 systems can also be engaged and disengaged manually, allowing you to quickly switch from 4x2 to 4x4 driving.

With regard to all-wheel drive (AWD), this 4-wheel drive system is most commonly found on cars, compact SUVs (sometimes) as well as on an increasing number of sports cars, both in the high-end range and in more affordable models.

An AWD system is always active. Depending on road conditions and your driving style, it shifts torque to the wheels that need it most. This makes it a great choice for everyday driving and will appeal to drivers who don't need a truck or SUV with off-road capabilities.

Is having a 4x4 or AWD system helpful in Quebec?

Short answer: Yes, although not everyone wants to drive a vehicle with 4-wheel drive, and many choose instead front- or rear-wheel drive models. That being said, the benefits of an AWD or 4x4 system in Quebec cannot be denied. So let's take a closer look at some of them.

They deliver better traction.

Drivers of AWD vehicles will tell you that AWD makes driving in winter much easier because it delivers greater traction and better handling. When there's snow or ice on the road and you have to climb a hill or make a lane change on the highway, AWD will offer you better stability and a smoother ride.

However, always remember that there is no substitute for good winter tires!

4x4 systems deliver greater towing capacities

As we mentioned before, trucks and SUVs equipped with a 4x4 system are able to tow heavier loads. You will notice the big difference when you need to tow a boat, a trailer or, during the winter season, your ice fishing shack!

Not only will these systems provide you with the towing capacity you need to tow just about anything, but they will also provide you with greater handling.

4x4 and AWD systems are useful in the winter... and in the summer too!

The benefits of driving a 4WD vehicle are very obvious during the winter season, but less so during the month of July. And yet, a 4x4 or AWD system still offers many strong advantages during the summer season!

In fact, these systems are very useful when negotiating sharp corners or in a hydroplaning situation, because that's exactly when you need the greatest stability.

Perfect for off-road driving

This is most useful for 4x4 pickups, although many SUVs also offer great off-road capabilities. Do you often wander onto forest trails and muddy roads, or even steep and uneven terrain? A 4x4 system will always get you from point A to point B without a scratch!

This is also true when it comes to getting to your campsite or cabin at the top of the mountain; it will be much easier to climb steep inclines in a 4x4 vehicle, even though it is quite possible to drive there with a front-wheel drive or a rear-wheel drive vehicle.

Pros and cons of 4x4 and AWD vehicles

Pros

• Better stability, especially on wet, snowy and icy roads
• Stronger towing capacity (4x4)
• Increased traction
• Can be full-time (AWD) or temporary/manually activated (4x4)
• Increased traction (4x4, low gear range)
• And much more

Cons

• Makes the vehicle heavier
• Slightly increased fuel consumption
• Increases the price of the vehicle

Which vehicles offer 4x4/AWD systems?

At Elite Chrysler, we offer the full line-up of Jeep SUVs with one of the most capable 4x4 systems on the market. In many cases, they offer the best off-road performance in their respective classes. Also worth mentioning is the Gladiator pickup truck, the only vehicle in its class to receive the Desert Rated certification.

As for RAM trucks, most of their models (1500, 2500, 3500, etc.) are equipped with a heavy-duty 4x4 drive system that are capable of towing heavy loads. They also offer plenty of other benefits.

From Dodge, the Durango SUV, as well as the powerful Dodge Charger and Challenger, are equipped such systems. In fact, the Challenger is the only model in its class to offer all-wheel drive.

Finally, Chrysler's Pacifica minivan and 300 luxury sedan are also available with all-wheel drive on select models.

In conclusion

Is a vehicle with a 4-wheel drive system a necessity in Quebec? Absolutely. Is it required by law? Absolutely not. It all comes down to your preferences, your driving habits and your needs.

That being said, anyone who has tried a vehicle with a 4x4 or AWD system during the winter will notice the huge difference in the vehicle's handling and traction, and it will be impossible to return to the way things were!

To discover more about our models with 4x4 and AWD systems, simply stop by for a visit at Elite Chrysler in Sherbrooke! Our team will be happy to help you!