When we shop for cars, most of us run into options like front wheel drive (FWD), rear wheel drive (RWD) and all wheel drive (AWD), but have you ever wondered what they mean?  I‘m going to explain them so Cars for Girls readers have a clear idea of the differences, benefits, and can better shop for which vehicle best meets their individual needs.

Front Wheel Drive (FWD) and Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)
When a vehicle has FWD and RWD alignments, this means that only one set of wheels is used to deliver power from the engine to the pavement. This helps to improve performance and allows the two rear wheels to handle acceleration, leaving the front wheels to focus on directing the vehicle, as well as the majority of braking.

All Wheel Drive (AWD)
When a vehicle is equipped with AWD, this means it utilizes all four of the wheels for traction improvement and performance in both good and bad-weather situations. 

For example, a vehicle which includes an Intelligent AWD system such as Infiniti’s Intelligent AWD system – is an advanced system (FYI – the entire product line is available with this technology, including the Infiniti G sports sedan and coupe, the Infiniti EX luxury crossover and both V6- and V8-engine versions of the Infiniti M luxury sedan and Infiniti FX performance crossover). An Intelligent AWD system uses an active torque distribution management system with an active center clutch, so you can get a smooth start, good grip and much better maneuverability on slippery surfaces – all without compromising a vehicle’s rear-wheel drive performance when the pavement is dry.

When constantly adjusting the power and sending anywhere from 50 percent to the front to up to 100 percent to the rear, the system generates some good control without sacrificing performance.  Under most driving conditions, an Intelligent AWD system is a good investment. An Intelligent AWD system measures wheel spin, throttle position and vehicle speed, and when conditions are less than stellar, Intelligent AWD  sends power to the front wheels to provide all-wheel traction. The system can also modulate the braking system to distribute power from side to side, if necessary.

So, to sum up, front wheel drive and all wheel drive vehicles are better suited to those individuals who live in areas with unpredictable climates because an all wheel drive is much better suited to handle inclement weather and offers better traction in snow or rain.

For best dry pavement driving, rear-wheel drive or all wheel drive are your best choices.

There is some difference in price you should be aware of, as well.  A vehicle with all wheel drive will generally cost more than a vehicle with a two-wheel drive system, and the added weight of an all wheel drive system may have a negative effect on fuel economy, but may also be offset by a higher resale value.

Curious about which cars have all wheel drive?  Here’s a partial list of 2008-2010 models:

2008
• 2008 Chrysler Sebring
• 2008 Dodge Magnum
• 2008 Chrysler 300
• 2008 Lincoln MKZ
• 2008 Cadillac CTS
• 2008 Chrysler 300C
• 2008 Cadillac STS

2009
• 2009 Pontiac Vibe
• 2009 Toyota Matrix
• 2009 Subaru Legacy
• 2009 Subaru Outback
• 2009 Ford Fusion
• 2009 Mercury Milan
• 2009 Ford Taurus
• 2009 Dodge Charger
• 2009 Infiniti M35x

2010
• 2010 Pontiac Vibe
• 2010 Toyota Matrix
• 2010 Ford Fusion
• 2010 Mercury Milan
• 2010 Ford Taurus

For a complete list of 2009-2010 AWD models, click here to visit ask.cars.com.

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