What is the Powertrain on a Car?

Shopping for a new Buick, GMC vehicle around Milford? You’ll often see a section that describes the vehicle’s drivetrain along with one of the following acronyms: AWD, FWD, RWD, or 4WD. Not sure what a car’s powertrain is? Curious about the differences between powertrain vs. drivetrain? 

Essentially, the drivetrain is what provides the power to move your vehicle’s wheels, whereas the powertrain is made from the motor and the powertrain. Depending on the type of car, truck, or SUV you own, the engine could be supplying two of the wheels or all four. The amount of wheels being utilized and the power distribution among them is broken down into the following acronyms:

• AWD – All-wheel drive
• FWD – Front-wheel drive (sometimes also marked as 2WD)
• RWD – Rear-wheel drive (sometimes also marked as 2WD)
• 4WD – Four-wheel drive

We here at Kent County Motors have broken down the different types of vehicle powertrains for your convenience below! Just continue reading to find out more!

What Does AWD Mean?

Now that you know what the powertrain on a car is and the differences between the powertrain vs. drivetrain, you’ll want to know the distinctions between each type of configuration. All-wheel drive, or AWD, is a drivetrain configuration where torque from the engine is directed to both the front and rear axles, distributing across all four wheels via differentials. This means that the power from the engine turns all four wheels. 

There are several different types of AWD systems, including part-time and full-time AWD. Full-time AWD directs power to the front and back axles continuously, whereas part-time AWD systems monitor Smyrna road conditions and detect slippage. Upon detection, this car’s powertrain and drivetrain will work in tandem to send power to the front axle and rear axle as necessary. 

Find Out More About Your Powertrain with Kent County Motors Today!

Now that you better understand what the powertrain on a car is, you’re that much more prepared to make an educated vehicle financing or leasing decision. However, if you’d like to conduct further Buick, GMC research, the team at Kent County Motors is more than happy to help! Just contact us online for more assistance!