Whether you’re in the market for an SUV or bakkie, you will certainly encounter two types of drivetrains: 4×4 and 4×2. But, how do these two propulsion systems vary from one another, and what are the pros and cons of each? Deciding between investing in a 4×4 vehicle or a 4×2 vehicle is a big consideration when buying a new car.
There are many lifestyle decisions to take into consideration before making a decision. If you love camping and have all the camping equipment, but need a car to match your outdoor lifestyle, then perhaps a 4×4 fitted with all-terrain tyres is the choice for you. However, if you love travelling and exploring new destinations but don’t go off-road too often, then a 4×2 may be better suited to your adventurous lifestyle. To make the decisions a bit easier, we’ve put together a guide to 4x4s and 4x2s to help you decide which drivetrain you want or need.
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What is the difference between a 4X2 and a 4×4?
A 4×2 drivetrain provides drive or power to the front or back axle of the vehicle, hence just two of the four wheels.
A four-wheel drivetrain transmits power or torque to all four wheels of a vehicle.
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Pros of 4X2 :
Compared to 4×4 vehicles, many of the advantages of a 4×2 off-road vehicle are weight-related. A 4×4’s fuel economy, payload, and towing capacities are all inferior to those of a 4×2 because of the additional components required to give torque to all four wheels.
A 4×2 vehicle also often has a cheaper base price. Typically, the price difference between a 4×2 and 4×4 vehicle runs from R10,000 to R30,000. Due to their weight distribution, two-wheel drive cars often have greater handling and are easier to operate.
Cons of 4X2:
People who live in warm, flat climates with no sleet or ice find the disadvantages of a 4×2 vehicle less significant. However, if you enjoy off-roading or reside in mountainous, rugged regions, then you might find that a 4×2 vehicle doesn’t quite meet your needs.
Pros of 4X4 :
4×4 vehicles are superior to 4×2 in terms of off-road capabilities and rugged terrains, especially in mud, river crossings, and steep inclines.
Although 4×4 vehicles may have a lower payload or towing capacity than a 4×2, they boast superior towing capabilities on slippery slopes, such as a boat ramp or a slick incline. If you have an outdoorsy lifestyle and love spending time doing hobbies like fishing or spending time on your boat doing watersports, like water skiing or stand-up paddle boarding, then a 4×4 is a great option.
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Cons of 4X4:
4×4 vehicles have a higher base price and are marginally less fuel efficient than a 4×2 vehicle, making them more expensive to own. The additional drivetrain components also make most 4×4 vehicles more costly to maintain and potentially more difficult to operate.
Which option is best suited for you?
A 4×4 will make driving in challenging conditions easier and if you’re off to explore the road less travelled, then it’s a great option. If you prefer off-roading or if your job requires you to work in an off-road setting, then a 4×4 is probably the best choice to suit your needs.
However, due to greater production expenses, they can be more expensive than a 4×2. Also, due to their higher weight, a 4×4 has a diminished towing capacity and lower fuel economy. If price is a consideration for you, and you are not likely to use 4×4 capabilities on your vehicle often, then it may be worth opting for a more affordable 4×2 vehicle.
Of course, a 4×2 will have less traction and stability than a 4×4, meaning they cannot manage off-roading or challenging weather and road conditions as effectively as a 4×4.
