
If you're intimidated by the challenging road conditions that Connecticut drivers face during the winter, you might be wondering if front-wheel drive vehicles or all-wheel drive models are better-equipped to navigate slippery, snowy roads. Both have their benefits, so let's take a look at what each option has to offer!
Front-Wheel Drive
Vehicles with front-wheel drive tend to be lighter than their all-wheel drive counterparts thanks to the powertrain and its various components existing as one unit that powers the front wheels. The weight of the powertrain is also concentrated above the drive wheels, giving the vehicle improved traction in the snow.
Benefits:
- Improved fuel-efficiency thanks to lighter weight
- Great traction on slippery surfaces and in snow
All-Wheel Drive
This system always operates in four-wheel drive (as opposed to two-wheel drive). The engine powers all four wheels to help your vehicle maintain traction on slippery roads. The trade-off is that it makes vehicles a bit heavier.
Benefits:
- Always on
- Provides improved traction and handling thanks to its ability to power all four wheels at once (it can even send engine power to specific wheels)
- Optimized for both slippery and dry road conditions
Explore FWD and AWD at Our Dealership
To learn more about the benefits of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, drop by our Mazda dealership in Stamford. We'll help you pick out a new ride that will suit your lifestyle and help you get through messy Connecticut winters. We're always happy to help drivers in the Danbury, Greenwich, and Milford areas find the perfect new Mazda model for their needs, so stop by today to get started!