Why Choose SAWD Rather than RWD?
When you think about the evolution of cars, you can’t help but be amazed and impressed by the succession. Some of the very first cars date back to the 1700s when their main source of power was a steam engine. And that’s not all, Karl Benz’s first car in 1885 had only three wheels, resembling that of an adult tricycle. Fast forward to the 21st Century and we have cars that start themselves and even open their own doors. If that doesn’t speak volumes about the progress and brilliance of cars, then we’re not sure what will.
SAWD vs RWD
Apart from the evolution of the exterior of cars, the evolution of motoring and performance is just as next level. And when talking Subaru, there’s a reason our global brand statement is ‘Confidence in Motion’, simply because our designers and crafters are driven by their own vision of what mobility and sheer excellence should be.
Driving is more than just getting from one point to another. It’s about the best driving experience, and with the symmetry of a Subaru engine, that’s exactly what you’re signing up for.
And talking about symmetry, let’s unpack SAWD and AWD options in cars – if you’re stuck wondering what the differences are and how each affects your driving, we’re here to guide you.
SAWD Explained
SAWD is an acronym that stands for Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It is a full-time driving system developed by Subaru. What makes Subaru’s SAWD system different is that you don’t have to flip a switch, push a button or wait for your car to activate the feature. It’s permanent and designed to give you the control you need, at all times. In a nutshell, the mounted boxer engine is coupled to a symmetrical drivetrain with half-axles equal in length, that power all four wheels. It sounds complicated, but you don’t need to worry about that, all you need to know is that we’ve taken the guesswork out of everything to give you the best possible (and most memorable) driving experience.
RWD Explained
RWD stands for rear-wheel drive, and it means that the majority of the power from the engine is given to the rear wheels. But why? Well, oftentimes cars with RWD have lots of power but lack inherent stability since power is sent entirely to the rear with the front wheels doing the singular job of manoeuvring the car. You will notice that most sport and race cars are RWD to ensure that the weight of the vehicle is kept to a minimum.
Differences & Similarities Between SAWD vs RWD
When you are car hunting, it’s best to keep in mind how many wheels are being used by the engine. It can impact the performance and driving ability of your car and ultimately affect your comfort.
For example, the main difference between SAWD and RWD is the number of wheels that are being driven by the engine. SAWD is a full-time system where all four wheels are being driven, whereas, with RWD, it’s just the rear two.
The performance is entirely different, too. SAWD has more benefits such as better control, better safety and ultimately a better driving experience. Subaru SAWD cars are designed to handle any terrain and bring you peace of mind while you drive. RWD cars are all about the grip and making those sharp turns without the tyres slipping or tumbling the car.
SAWD vs RWD – What’s Better for You & Your Safety?
The question at the end of the day is, what is better for you and your safety? You have freedom of choice when it comes to selecting cars, but if you have a small family, or even a growing one, your choice of cars should settle on safety first. Subaru SAWD cars are engineered with the best technology and innovation to give you the safety and confidence you need on the roads. Your wheels are powered by a boxer engine, giving you maximum control, traction and complete grip on the road like no other.
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Why put Subaru on your wishlist when you can make your own driving dreams come true? Book a test drive on any of our vehicles and feel the difference that is the SAWD driving system. Call us on +27 11 608 0116 or email info@subaru.co.za and a skilled member of our team will be happy to assist you.
