Davis Bellew If you’re in the market for a new car, or perhaps you’re just a car enthusiast who likes to keep up with the latest automotive advancements, you might have heard of Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system. This technology has become a beloved feature of Subaru’s vehicles, particularly among those who live in areas with challenging weather conditions. In this article, we will explore the basics of all-wheel drive, the benefits of Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system, and the technology behind this advanced technology.
What is All-Wheel Drive?
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a system that allows a vehicle to distribute power to all four wheels simultaneously. Unlike a two-wheel-drive system (in which power is sent to either the front two or rear two wheels), an AWD system provides better traction, stability, and control over the vehicle. By sending power to all four wheels, the AWD system improves the vehicle’s grip on the road, making it easier to handle and giving it better performance in challenging conditions such as snow, ice, mud, and sand.
The Benefits of Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System
Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive (SAWD) system is designed to provide a balanced distribution of power to all four wheels. It is all about optimizing power distribution for all driving conditions, making sure that all wheels get power equally. The system is also designed to be simple and lightweight, which allows for better fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
One of the significant benefits of Subaru’s SAWD system is that it improves the stability and handling of the vehicle. The balanced power distribution helps the car maintain traction on the road, even in slippery conditions, resulting in better handling and stability. The SAWD system helps reduce understeer, which is when the front of the car turns less than the driver intends due to loss of grip. This results in a more predictable and precise steering feel and helps to make the car feel more connected to the road.
Another benefit of the SAWD system is improving safety. The SAWD system helps improve traction and reduce wheel slippage, which is especially useful in harsh weather conditions. The better handling and stability provided by SAWD means better control when the car goes through an unexpected maneuver.
How Does Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System Distribute Power?
Unlike other all-wheel-drive systems, which can distribute power unevenly, Subaru’s SAWD system sends power to all four wheels equally. The system uses a horizontally opposed (boxer) engine, which creates a more balanced and lower center of gravity, making it an ideal system for distributing power equally.
The SAWD system uses a transfer clutch to manage the power distribution between the front and rear wheels. The transfer clutch is an electronic device that can adjust the torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. The torque distribution is typically around 50:50, with some variation depending on driving conditions. For example, when accelerating, the system directs power to the rear wheels for better traction. When decelerating, the system directs power to the front wheels, improving stability. When cornering, the system directs more power to the outside wheels to improve handling.
Performance Benefits of Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System
Subaru’s SAWD system offers several performance benefits compared to other all-wheel drive systems. The balanced distribution of power, combined with the low center of gravity created by the horizontally opposed engine, results in better handling and stability. Additionally, the SAWD system delivers power to all four wheels, making it easier to accelerate quickly and maintain control at higher speeds. The system also provides better off-road performance, giving drivers the confidence to tackle challenging terrain.
Another notable benefit is the responsiveness of the system, both in terms of power distribution and stability control. By sending power to the wheels that need it most, the system can react quickly to changes in driving conditions and help maintain stability. This responsive nature of the system makes it easier to predict how the car will behave in different conditions, increasing the driver’s confidence behind the wheel.
The Technology Behind Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System
The technology behind Subaru’s SAWD system is impressive, with innovative features that set it apart from other all-wheel drive systems. The system uses a range of sensors to monitor driving conditions, including wheel speed, throttle position, steering angle, and yaw rate. It then uses this information to adjust power distribution to each wheel, ensuring optimal handling and stability.
The system also includes advanced traction and stability control features, which work in conjunction with the SAWD system to keep the vehicle stable in all conditions. These systems automatically adjust power distribution to each wheel, applying the brakes to individual wheels, reducing engine torque, and adjusting the throttle to prevent wheel spin or slipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How does Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive compare to other all-wheel-drive systems?
A1. Subaru’s SAWD system offers a more balanced distribution of power, making it easier to handle and more stable than other all-wheel drive systems. Additionally, the system is designed to be lightweight and fuel-efficient, without sacrificing performance.
Q2. Is Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system good for off-road driving?
A2. Yes, Subaru’s SAWD system is excellent for off-road driving. The system’s balanced power distribution and low center of gravity make it well-suited to navigating rough terrain.
Q3. Does the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system need to be serviced regularly?
A3. Yes, like any system in your car, the Subaru SAWD system requires regular servicing to maintain its performance. Servicing should include inspections of the transfer clutch and differential fluids to ensure proper operation.
Conclusion
Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a significant advancement in automotive engineering. The system’s balanced power distribution, advanced traction and stability control features, and responsive technology make it a favorite among car enthusiasts and those who live in areas with harsh weather conditions. The technology behind Subaru’s SAWD system is impressive, with features that set it apart from other all-wheel drive systems, offering greater stability, handling, and safety. If you’re looking for a car with exceptional all-wheel drive performance, look no further than Subaru.
