Everything you need to know about all-wheel drive Published March 15, 2021 M.Pellinni/iStockPhoto / Getty Images All-wheel drive can be nice to have and, for some drivers, essential, but do you really need it? And if you do, what should you look for? There are downsides to AWD. It’s more expensive to buy, there’s more to fix if something goes wrong, and it’s heavier, using more fuel even when it’s not activated. The average AWD system adds about 60-70 kilograms to a vehicle, about the same as an adult passenger. However, all-wheel drive provides torque to all four of your vehicle’s wheels, not just those at the front or the back. Some sports cars use AWD for better grip around corners when the tires are being pushed hard; it can also give better grip on wet, slippery roads. Most drivers, however, want AWD for its better traction in snow or on ice, or for driving off-road. It’s a popular option for Canadian vehicles.