Thursday, July 10, 2008

All-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Advance car technologies have brought innovations to developing more practical features. For one, the development of all-wheel drive vehicles has revolutionized the handling features and driving capabilities of modern car lineups. In combining new technologies with new materials for car manufacture, compact, lighter and more responsive all-wheel drive vehicles where produced. A number of car manufacturers took advantage of the chance to pioneer the improvements done on the first batch of all-wheel drives. Although Subaru and Audi is considered to have the most experience and expertise in all-wheel drive configurations, other car manufacturers Porsche, General Motors, BMW and Mercedes have shown interest in developing much improved AWDs. Today, these companies are featuring a full-range of AWDs that suits every price range.

The new 2008 Honda CR-V is one of the great examples of an AWD. It is designed to split the amount of traction by 60% to the rear wheels while the remaining 40% of the available traction is sent to the front wheels. When driving over slippery road surfaces, it features a viscous coupling unit that distributes the needed amount of traction to the wheels. As the input and output shaft mate with thin and alternately spaced discs, the speed difference between the two shafts or between its two axles is limited or controlled. Hence, the driver maintains driving control and enjoys better road command.

With its 3-mode Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (i-AWD) features, the all new Suzuki SX4 Crossover is considered as a superb example of the latest AWD technology. The ride provides excellent control over the traction capabilities of a vehicle. As you drive on varying road conditions, Suzuki SX4 Crossover runs at its standard two-wheel drive setup. However, it allows automatic switching to its i-AWD mode so power will be seamlessly transmitted into the wheels. This way, the wheels instantly get their needed traction especially when driving over extra slick road conditions.

Overall, AWD system is best suited in standing up to the tests of today’s driving conditions. So the next time that you buy a car, consider having an AWD vehicle to enjoy better handling and safer driving. These vehicles are perfect for on and off-road driving, making them a smart investment that you must take.

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