AWD vs 4WD: Which Do You Need for Chicago Weather?
The short answer: all-wheel drive (AWD) automatically sends power to the wheels that need it and is designed for everyday driving on wet or slippery pavement. Four-wheel drive (4WD) is typically a driver-selected system with more rugged hardware, aimed at off-road and low-traction work, and often found on trucks and body-on-frame SUVs. Either one helps you get going in snow, but neither helps you stop or turn better; tires do that.
AWD vs 4WD
| Factor | AWD | 4WD |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Usually automatic; no driver action | Usually driver-selected, with modes such as 4-High and 4-Low on many vehicles |
| Best for | Rain, light snow and slush on paved roads | Deep snow, trails and heavy work |
| Typical vehicles | Crossovers, SUVs and some cars | Trucks and off-road-oriented SUVs |
| Everyday driving | Designed for use on pavement | Some systems should not be used on dry pavement; follow the owner's manual |
Do You Need Either in Chicago?
Many Chicago drivers get through winter with front- or rear-wheel drive and good winter tires. If you regularly drive in unplowed streets, park on the street, or need extra confidence on hills and slush, AWD can be worth considering. If you tow, haul or head off-road, 4WD may be the better fit.
Tires Matter More Than You Think
Drive system helps with acceleration, not braking. Quality tires with adequate tread, and winter tires where you drive in snow often, make the biggest difference in stopping and cornering.
Check the Specific Vehicle
Drive systems differ by model and trim, and some are optional. Confirm the system on the exact vehicle you are considering. Browse SUVs across Dial and trucks across Dial, or search new and used inventory.
Keep Researching
Shop at the Right Dial Location
Dial Auto Group has five Chicago dealerships. Each brand is sold at specific stores, so start with the store that carries the vehicle you want.
| Dealership | Brands | Address | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dial Chevy of Chicago | Chevrolet | 6603 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| Dial Nissan of Chicago | Nissan | 7410 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| INFINITI of Chicago | INFINITI | 2711 S State St, Chicago, IL 60616 | New | Used |
| Dial Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago | Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram | 7340 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| Jeep of Chicago | Jeep | 5950 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60659 | New | Used |
See all Dial Auto Group locations or search new and used inventory across the group.
Last reviewed October 2026 by Dial Auto Group. This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice. Vehicle features, availability and pricing vary by model and dealership; confirm details with the store.
Related guides: FWD vs AWD, Winter Tires vs All-Season Tires.