Volvo XC90: Starting and driving / All Wheel Drive (AWD)

All-wheel drive (AWD¹), also called fourwheel drive, means that power is distributed to all four wheels, which improves traction.

To achieve the best traction, power is automatically directed to the wheels that have the best grip. The system continuously calculates the need for torque to the rear wheels, and can immediately redistribute up to half of the engine's torque to the rear wheels.

All-wheel drive also has a stabilizing effect at higher speeds. In normal driving conditions, most of the engine's power is directed to the front wheels. When the vehicle is stationary, all-wheel drive is always activated in preparation for maximum traction during acceleration.

All-wheel drive reacts differently depending on which drive mode is selected.

¹ All Wheel Drive