AWD and 4x4 Vehicles in the Bay Area

Before you pick

3 rules.

1. 1AWD is automatic and better for wet pavement; part-time 4x4 is not meant to be left engaged on dry road.
2. 2Tires matter more than the drivetrain on snow — chain requirements over Donner apply regardless of what drives the wheels.
3. 3Factor the running cost: four driven wheels usually means more weight, more fuel, and more tires to replace at once.