What Is Lincoln Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD)?
Lincoln's Intelligent AWD system provides a dynamic approach to traction and stability. Unlike traditional systems that react only after traction is lost, it actively monitors road conditions and adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear wheels in real time.
How Intelligent AWD Works
- Normal Driving: Prioritizes front-wheel drive to improve fuel efficiency under steady conditions.
- Reduced Traction: Automatically shifts power to the rear wheels when grip is compromised.
- Proactive Adjustments: Constantly analyzes road and vehicle dynamics to redistribute torque before traction is compromised.
- Enhanced Handling: Adjusts power between individual wheels during cornering or uneven terrain for better stability.
This smart, seamless functionality makes Intelligent AWD ideal for handling snow, wet roads, and light off-road challenges.
AWD vs. 4WD: What's the Difference?
While both systems provide power to all four wheels, they are designed for different scenarios. AWD, like Lincoln's Intelligent AWD, is perfect for daily driving and moderate off-road conditions. 4WD is built for extreme off-road challenges and offers specialized drivetrain features to handle rugged terrain.
The 2024 Lincoln Navigator has 4WD as standard. The base Navigator has been renamed the Premiere, and it, along with the higher trims, enjoys this standard 4WD, showcasing the vehicle's commitment to luxury and performance on varied terrains.
What 4WD Offers
- Low-Range Gearing: Provides slow, controlled power for crawling down steep descents or climbing over rocky trails. Ideal for mud, sand, and other extreme conditions.
- High-Range Gearing: Engages all four wheels at higher speeds for better traction on loose gravel or snowy roads.
- Manual Engagement: Drivers can switch between 2WD, high-range 4WD, and low-range 4WD, offering precise speed and grip control in specific situations.
4WD is the go-to choice for serious off-road enthusiasts who need precise control in extreme conditions.
What AWD Offers
- Automatic Torque Distribution: Automatically shifts power between the front and rear wheels for optimal grip without driver input.
- On/Off-Road Versatility: Has a good handle in urban and suburban conditions or dusty trails, handling rain, snow, and gravel paths with ease.
- Real-Time Adaptation: Adjusts torque between wheels dynamically to improve cornering and maintain control during sudden changes in road conditions.
- Everyday Practicality: Offers traction and stability without the need for manual engagement or complex settings.
The Impact of Intelligent AWD on Real-World Performance
Lincoln's Intelligent AWD system is adept in both everyday and challenging driving scenarios. On icy roads, it automatically adjusts torque to maintain stability and reduce slippage. On gravel roads, it delivers smooth handling by redistributing power to the wheels with the most grip. With real-time adaptation, the system makes navigating unpredictable weather and terrain effortless.
Explore AWD Lincolns at Riser Lincoln
Riser Lincoln offers a range of AWD-equipped vehicles that combine luxury, performance, and all-weather capability. Whether you're navigating icy streets, wet highways, or unpaved paths, Lincoln's AWD-equipped vehicles deliver traction, stability, and performance.
Contact us at or use the map below to visit Riser Lincoln today and test drive an Intelligent AWD model.
