4WD or AWD?

[Noctilum]

I need a family vehicle that can take us off the beaten path in the low $30,000 price range. Ford advertises the Explorer as 4WD but I see other places saying it is AWD. Can anyone explain what it really is? My other option would be a 4Runner, but that has "part-time 4WD" so I am wondering if they are similar in that respect?

 

[aypanthony]

I need a family vehicle that can take us off the beaten path in the low $30,000 price range. Ford advertises the Explorer as 4WD but I see other places saying it is AWD. Can anyone explain what it really is? My other option would be a 4Runner, but that has "part-time 4WD" so I am wondering if they are similar in that respect?

Here are some questions you need to answer yourself:
1) do you need 4 low on the terrain you will be driving?
2) do you need a high clearance SUV?
3) How rugged will be the terrain you are driving?
4) Do you need lockers?

The 5th Gen Explorers are AWD with a front wheel bias. This means it is in front wheel drive most of the time until it senses wheel slip, then engages the rear when needed. It has Terrain modes, but I am pretty sure they don't provide much in the way of additional traction(except snow mode).

If the terrain you intend to drive is more than a dirt/gravel road, then a more high clearance vehicle may be necessary. The Explorer does not have much ground clearance, no lockers and no 4-Low range. A 4Runner may fit the bill, or in my case, I have a Jeep Wrangler.

 

[peterk9]

I need a family vehicle that can take us off the beaten path in the low $30,000 price range. Ford advertises the Explorer as 4WD but I see other places saying it is AWD. Can anyone explain what it really is? My other option would be a 4Runner, but that has "part-time 4WD" so I am wondering if they are similar in that respect?

Welcome to the Forum.
There is an existing thread on this topic but I haven't found it. As mentioned above, the Explorer is actually AWD but FWD biased. When the system detects slippage it will send a percentage of power to the rear wheels. You can also control that to some degree by using the Terrain Management System (TMS). I believe the 4WD badge on the back is more of a sales gimmick than anything else. Many other Fords with the same type of drivetrain, minus the TMS, have the AWD badge on the back just like my previous MKT. The Explorer can be used for mild to moderate off road use but the ground clearance is a limiting factor.
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums...road-experience-with-5th-gen-explorer.379958/
The 4Runner Limited is full time 4WD but likely out of the price range you quoted.

Peter