Explore your drivetrain options before you buy
If you’re in the market for a new midsize SUV, like the Nissan Rogue, you may be wondering if the Nissan Rogue is all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). The answer is straightforward: the Nissan Rogue offers all-wheel drive (AWD) and front-wheel drive (FWD) but not four-wheel drive (4WD). Matt Castrucci Nissan of Dayton, OH, is here to explore your drivetrain options before you buy.
Nissan Rogue: AWD vs. FWD
The Nissan Rogue comes with front-wheel drive, but for those who want more traction, it’s also available with all-wheel drive. Here’s a quick breakdown of the two drivetrain options:
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): In FWD vehicles, the engine powers only the front wheels. This setup is lighter, typically more fuel-efficient, and is great for everyday driving on city streets and highways.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): The AWD option on the Nissan Rogue automatically adjusts power between the front and rear wheels as needed. It delivers extra grip and control, particularly useful on wet, icy, or uneven terrain.
If you live in an area with unpredictable weather or plan to drive on rougher surfaces, the AWD version of the Rogue is an excellent choice. It strikes a good balance between everyday convenience and enhanced control when the roads get tough.
What is four-wheel drive?
The Nissan Rogue doesn’t offer a four-wheel drive (4WD) option, but it’s important to understand what 4WD entails.
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): This system allows all four wheels to receive equal power and can be manually switched on and off. 4WD is often used in rugged environments like muddy and rocky terrain. It’s ideal for serious off-roaders. However, it tends to be heavier and less fuel-efficient than AWD or FWD systems.
Since the Rogue is more of a city-friendly crossover, AWD is a better fit for its intended use compared to a full 4WD system.
Nissan Altima all-wheel drive
It might surprise some that AWD isn’t just reserved for SUVs like the Rogue; the Nissan Altima, a midsize sedan, also comes with an AWD option. This option makes the Altima one of the few sedans in its class to offer the additional traction of an all-wheel-drive system.
Differences Between AWD, 4WD, and FWD
To summarize, here’s a quick comparison of the three drivetrain systems:
- Front-Wheel Drive: FWD powers only the front wheels, which is better for fuel efficiency and general road use.
- All-Wheel Drive: AWD powers all four wheels as needed, providing better traction and control in various driving conditions.
- Four-Wheel Drive: 4WD powers all four wheels equally and is designed for off-road and rugged terrain.
How to choose a drivetrain
When deciding which drivetrain is best for you, consider your driving habits, environment, and how much traction you need. With both the Rogue and Altima offering AWD, Nissan gives you the flexibility to choose the right setup for your lifestyle.
