TireTalk

All-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4×4) systems are often seen as the ultimate solution for winter driving in Canada. Many drivers assume that if their vehicle has AWD or 4×4, winter tires are optional.

That assumption can be costly — and dangerous.

In this guide, we’ll explain how AWD/4×4 really works in winter, what it can and cannot do, and why winter tires remain essential, no matter how advanced your drivetrain is.

The Big Myth: “I Have AWD, So I Don’t Need Winter Tires”

Let’s be clear from the start:

AWD and 4×4 help you move — not stop or steer.

Your drivetrain can distribute power to multiple wheels, but traction still depends entirely on your tires. On snow and ice, the rubber touching the road matters far more than how many wheels receive power.

How AWD and 4×4 Actually Work

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

• Continuously or automatically sends power to multiple wheels

• Optimizes traction when accelerating

• Common in sedans, crossovers, and SUVs

• Designed mainly for on-road stability

Four-Wheel Drive (4×4)

• Typically driver-selectable (2H / 4H / 4L)

• Often found in trucks and off-road SUVs

• Excellent for deep snow, unplowed roads, and uneven terrain

Important:
Neither system improves braking distance or steering grip on ice.

Why Winter Tires Are Still Critical

Braking Performance

No matter how advanced your drivetrain is, all vehicles brake with four tires.

Winter tires:

• Use softer rubber compounds that stay flexible below 7°C

• Grip ice and packed snow far better than all-seasons

• Reduce stopping distances significantly

AWD won’t help you stop sooner — winter tires will.

Steering and Control

Your ability to steer depends on front tire traction.

Without winter tires:

• Front wheels can slide straight ahead (understeer)

• Steering inputs feel delayed or ineffective

• Emergency maneuvers become unpredictable

AWD cannot correct a lack of grip at the front tires.

False Sense of Confidence

One of the biggest risks of AWD/4×4 is overconfidence.

Drivers often:

• Accelerate faster than conditions allow

• Enter corners too quickly

• Assume stability systems will save them

Winter tires provide real mechanical grip, not electronic assistance.

AWD + Winter Tires: The Best Combination

When AWD or 4×4 is paired with four winter tires, that’s when the system truly shines.

You get:
✔ Improved acceleration
✔ Shorter braking distances
✔ Better cornering stability
✔ More predictable handling
✔ Increased safety in emergencies

This combination is ideal for:

• Canadian highways

• Mountain roads

• Urban winter commuting

• Rural and unplowed routes

What About All-Season and All-Weather Tires?

All-Season Tires

• Designed for mild climates

• Rubber hardens in cold temperatures

• Poor ice performance

Even on AWD vehicles, all-seasons are not sufficient for real Canadian winters.

All-Weather Tires (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake)

• A compromise between all-season and winter tires

• Acceptable for light winter conditions

• Still not equal to dedicated winter tires on ice

For maximum safety, dedicated winter tires remain the best choice.