Lease a 2026 X3 30 xDrive for $549/month for 39 months. Click here to find yours.

What Is the Difference Between AWD and 4WD?

Winter tire wheels using 4WD

As you peruse the new BMW lineup and the extensive selection of used vehicles available at BMW of Murrieta, you have likely come across the various drivetrain options — front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and 4-wheel drive. So, what is the difference between AWD and 4WD? It may seem that they are one in the same, but they are actually quite distinct and will serve you differently on the Corona roads. Compare AWD vs. 4WD with BMW of Murrieta to determine which is the better option for you!

Is AWD the Same as 4WD?

Is AWD the same as 4WD? The answer is no, they are not the same. Learn more about AWD and 4WD below.

What Is AWD?

  • Drivetrain configuration in which torque is directed from the engine, to front and rear axles, to all wheels via differentials
  • Various types of AWD systems available, such as full-time AWD (power delivered to front and rear axles at all times) and part-time AWD (power delivered to front and rear axles as needed based on road conditions)

What is 4WD?

  • Drivetrain configuration in which torque is not only directed from the engine to front and rear axles, but also specific power to left and right wheels
  • Designed for off-roading
  • Primarily installed on vehicles with truck-based platforms

Which is Better: AWD or 4WD?

Is AWD better than 4WD? Ultimately, it depends on your driving demands and how you intend to use your vehicle. AWD vehicles prove ideal in areas with snowy weather and icy conditions during the winter, whereas 4WD vehicles are an optimal choice for those seeking adventure off the beaten path in the Riverside area. That’s to say there is no one-size-fits-all answer for the question of which is better: AWD or 4WD? It comes down to your preferences.

BMW Models with AWD

The follow BMW models have BMW xDrive all-wheel drive as standard or available:

  • BMW X1
  • BMW X2
  • BMW X3
  • BMW X4 (AWD only)
  • BMW X5
  • BMW X6
  • BMW X7
  • BMW 2 Series
  • BMW 3 Series
  • BMW 4 Series
  • BMW 5 Series
  • BMW 7 Series
  • BMW 8 Series
  • BMW M5
  • BMW M8

If you are searching for a vehicle with 4-wheel drive instead of all-wheel drive, our team will be glad to help you find a good option for a great price among our used vehicle inventory! 

Find an AWD or 4WD Model for Sale at BMW of Murrieta

Discover the AWD SAVs available within the new BMW inventory at BMW of Murrieta, or explore our pre-owned options to see if we have any 4WD models for sale. Either way, our team is here to help you decide between AWD or 4WD for your Ontario-area drives. Get in touch with us today!

 

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Hendrick Vehicle Disclaimer:

$85.00 Dealer Document Processing Charge included in advertised price.
All prices exclude all taxes, tag, title, registration fees, and government fees. Out of state buyers are responsible for all taxes and government fees and title/registration fees in the state where the vehicle will be registered. All prices include all manufacturer to dealer incentives, which the dealer retains unless otherwise specifically provided. Dealer not responsible for errors and omissions; all offers subject to change without notice; please confirm listings with dealer. All vehicles may not be physically located at this dealership but may be available for delivery through this location. Transportation charges may apply. Please contact the dealership for more specific information. All vehicles are subject to prior sale.

Additional Disclaimers:

Loyalty Offers available to qualified customers who have leased or financed a BMW model through BMW Financial Services NA, LLC in the last 12 months. In order to qualify for a BMW Loyalty Offer, loyal current or former BMW owners or lessees must show proof of ownership or BMW Financial Services account number and qualify for credit approval. Available Loyalty Offer of $5,000 off MSRP on select new 2026 BMW 750e xDrive Sedan models (consists of $4,000 BMW of North America, LLC contribution, plus $1,000 loyalty contribution from your BMW Center). Must take delivery by November 02, 2026. Availability of Loyalty Offers are subject to dealer participation. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. Purchase Credit: Valid on 2026 BMW i4 eDrive40 models. Through November 02, 2026, 3.99% APR financing for up to 24 monthly payments of $43.42 for every $1,000 financed, and 3.99% APR financing for up to 60 monthly payments of $18.41 for every $1,000 financed is available from participating BMW Centers to well qualified customers who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. No down payment required for well qualified customers. Not all customers will qualify for down payment waiver or lowest rate. Other rates and payment terms available. All offers are subject to dealer participation. Offers valid through November 02, 2026. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. Available Purchase Credit of $3,750 off MSRP for well qualified buyers.

Valid on 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i models. Through September 30, 2026, 0.90% APR financing for up to 24 monthly payments of $42.06 for every $1,000 financed, and 0.90% APR financing for up to 60 monthly payments of $17.05 for every $1,000 financed is available from participating BMW Centers to well qualified customers who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. No down payment required for well qualified customers. Not all customers will qualify for down payment waiver or lowest rate. Other rates and payment terms available. All offers are subject to dealer participation. Offers valid through September 30, 2026. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. Available Purchase Credit of $1,000 off MSRP for well qualified buyers.

Valid on 2026 BMW X3 30 xDrive models. Through November 02, 2026, 0.9% APR financing for up to 24 monthly payments of $42.06 for every $1,000 financed, and 0.9% APR financing for up to 60 monthly payments of $17.05 for every $1,000 financed is available from participating BMW Centers to well qualified customers who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. No down payment required for well qualified customers. Not all customers will qualify for down payment waiver or lowest rate. Other rates and payment terms available. All offers are subject to dealer participation. Offers valid through November 02, 2026. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. **Advertised lease offer is a national advertisement intended to be available on new 2026 BMW X3 30 xDrive models from participating BMW Centers through BMW Financial Services NA, LLC, to customers who meet BMW Financial Services' credit requirements. Dealer sets actual sale price and may add additional fees and charges. Advertised lease payment is calculated based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for vehicle as shown and does not necessarily represent the dealer's actual sale price. Offer not valid in Puerto Rico. Advertised monthly lease payments of $549 per month for 39 months is based on an adjusted capitalized cost of $49,990 (MSRP of $58,450, including destination and handling fee of $1,350, less $3,825 capitalized cost reduction, $0 security deposit, suggested dealer contribution of $2,635, Lease Credit of $1,000, and SoCal Edition Package Credit of $1,000). Actual MSRP and dealer contribution may vary and could affect your monthly lease payment. Cash due at signing includes $3,825 capitalized cost reduction, $549 first month's payment, $925 acquisition fee and $0 security deposit. Lessee responsible for insurance during the lease term, excess wear and tear as defined in the lease contract, $0.25/mile over 32,500 miles, plus disposition fee of up to $495 (not to exceed an amount permissible by law) at lease end. Not all customers will qualify for security deposit waiver. Tax, title, license, registration and any dealer fees and charges (if any) are additional amounts that are due at signing. Advertised monthly payment does not include applicable taxes. Purchase option price at lease end is $33,317, plus the purchase option fee disclosed in the lease contract. Additional tax, title, and government fees may also apply. This X3 Offer requires SoCal Edition Package included in the vehicle build. SoCal Edition Package Credit of $1,000 is a credit against the MSRP of the vehicle. In order to qualify for the SoCal Edition Package credit, the applicable X3 30 xDrive model must be equipped with the SoCal Edition Package (Package Code: ZS9). Contact your local BMW Center for more details. Offer valid through November 02, 2026 and may be combined with other offers unless otherwise stated. Models pictured may be shown with metallic paint and/or additional accessories. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details.

Valid on 2026 BMW 330i Sedan models. Through November 02, 2026, 0.9% APR financing for up to 24 monthly payments of $42.06 for every $1,000 financed, and 0.9% APR financing for up to 60 monthly payments of $17.05 for every $1,000 financed is available from participating BMW Centers to well qualified customers who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. No down payment required for well qualified customers. Not all customers will qualify for down payment waiver or lowest rate. Other rates and payment terms available. All offers are subject to dealer participation. Offers valid through November 02, 2026. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. **Advertised lease offer is a national advertisement intended to be available on new 2026 BMW 330i Sedan models from participating BMW Centers through BMW Financial Services NA, LLC, to customers who meet BMW Financial Services' credit requirements. Dealer sets actual sale price and may add additional fees and charges. Advertised lease payment is calculated based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for vehicle as shown and does not necessarily represent the dealer's actual sale price. Offer not valid in Puerto Rico. Advertised monthly lease payments of $459 per month for 39 months is based on an adjusted capitalized cost of $46,685 (MSRP of $53,900, including destination and handling fee of $1,350, less $3,555 capitalized cost reduction, $0 security deposit, suggested dealer contribution of $2,660, and Lease Credit of $1,000). Actual MSRP and dealer contribution may vary and could affect your monthly lease payment. Cash due at signing includes $3,555 capitalized cost reduction, $459 first month's payment, $925 acquisition fee and $0 security deposit. Lessee responsible for insurance during the lease term, excess wear and tear as defined in the lease contract, $0.25/mile over 32,500 miles, plus disposition fee of up to $495 (not to exceed an amount permissible by law) at lease end. Not all customers will qualify for security deposit waiver. Tax, title, license, registration and any dealer fees and charges (if any) are additional amounts that are due at signing. Advertised monthly payment does not include applicable taxes. Purchase option price at lease end is $30,723, plus the purchase option fee disclosed in the lease contract. Additional tax, title, and government fees may also apply. Offer valid through November 02, 2026 and may be combined with other offers unless otherwise stated. Models pictured may be shown with metallic paint and/or additional accessories. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details.

Valid on 2026 BMW i4 eDrive40 models. Through November 02, 2026, 3.99% APR financing for up to 24 monthly payments of $43.42 for every $1,000 financed, and 3.99% APR financing for up to 60 monthly payments of $18.41 for every $1,000 financed is available from participating BMW Centers to well qualified customers who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. No down payment required for well qualified customers. Not all customers will qualify for down payment waiver or lowest rate. Other rates and payment terms available. All offers are subject to dealer participation. Offers valid through November 02, 2026. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. Available Purchase Credit of $3,750 off MSRP for well qualified buyers. **Advertised lease offer is a national advertisement intended to be available on new 2026 BMW i4 eDrive40 models from participating BMW Centers through BMW Financial Services NA, LLC, to customers who meet BMW Financial Services' credit requirements. Dealer sets actual sale price and may add additional fees and charges. Advertised lease payment is calculated based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for vehicle as shown and does not necessarily represent the dealer's actual sale price. Offer not valid in Puerto Rico. Advertised monthly lease payments of $549 per month for 36 months is based on an adjusted capitalized cost of $50,290 (MSRP of $60,700, including destination and handling fee of $1,350, less $3,375 capitalized cost reduction, $0 security deposit, suggested dealer contribution of $3,285, and Lease Credit of $3,750). Actual MSRP and dealer contribution may vary and could affect your monthly lease payment. Cash due at signing includes $3,375 capitalized cost reduction, $549 first month's payment, $925 acquisition fee and $0 security deposit. Lessee responsible for insurance during the lease term, excess wear and tear as defined in the lease contract, $0.25/mile over 30,000 miles, plus disposition fee of up to $495 (not to exceed an amount permissible by law) at lease end. Not all customers will qualify for security deposit waiver. Tax, title, license, registration and any dealer fees and charges (if any) are additional amounts that are due at signing. Advertised monthly payment does not include applicable taxes. Purchase option price at lease end is $33,385, plus the purchase option fee disclosed in the lease contract. Additional tax, title, and government fees may also apply. Offer valid through November 02, 2026 and may be combined with other offers unless otherwise stated. Models pictured may be shown with metallic paint and/or additional accessories. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details.

Valid on 2026 BMW X1 xDrive28i models. Through September 30, 2026, 1.99% APR financing for up to 24 monthly payments of $42.54 for every $1,000 financed, and 1.99% APR financing for up to 60 monthly payments of $17.52 for every $1,000 financed is available from participating BMW Centers to well qualified customers who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. No down payment required for well qualified customers. Not all customers will qualify for down payment waiver or lowest rate. Other rates and payment terms available. All offers are subject to dealer participation. Offers valid through September 30, 2026. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. **Advertised monthly lease payments of $499 per month for 39 months is based on an adjusted capitalized cost of $41,685 (MSRP of $47,750, including destination and handling fee of $1,350, less $3,175 capitalized cost reduction, $0 security deposit, suggested dealer contribution of $1,890, and Lease Credit of $1,000). Actual MSRP and dealer contribution may vary and could affect your monthly lease payment. Cash due at signing includes $3,175 capitalized cost reduction, $499 first month's payment, $925 acquisition fee and $0 security deposit. Lessee responsible for insurance during the lease term, excess wear and tear as defined in the lease contract, $.25/mile over $32,500 miles, plus disposition fee of up to $495 (not to exceed an amount permissible by law) at lease end. Not all customers will qualify for security deposit waiver. Tax, title, license, registration and any dealer fees and charges (if any) are additional amounts that are due at signing. Advertised monthly payment does not include applicable taxes. Purchase option price at lease end is $26,740, plus the purchase option fee disclosed in the lease contract. Additional tax, title, and government fees may also apply. Offer valid through September 30, 2026 and may be combined with other offers unless otherwise stated. Models pictured may be shown with metallic paint and/or additional accessories. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details.

Valid on 2026 BMW 228 Gran Coupe models. Through November 02, 2026, 2.99% APR financing for up to 24 monthly payments of $42.98 for every $1,000 financed, and 2.99% APR financing for up to 60 monthly payments of $17.96 for every $1,000 financed is available from participating BMW Centers to well qualified customers who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. No down payment required for well qualified customers. Not all customers will qualify for down payment waiver or lowest rate. Other rates and payment terms available. All offers are subject to dealer participation. Offers valid through November 02, 2026. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. **Advertised lease offer is a national advertisement intended to be available on new 2026 BMW 228 Gran Coupe models from participating BMW Centers through BMW Financial Services NA, LLC, to customers who meet BMW Financial Services' credit requirements. Dealer sets actual sale price and may add additional fees and charges. Advertised lease payment is calculated based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for vehicle as shown and does not necessarily represent the dealer's actual sale price. Offer not valid in Puerto Rico. Advertised monthly lease payments of $429 per month for 39 months is based on an adjusted capitalized cost of $39,495 (MSRP of $44,100, including destination and handling fee of $1,350, less $2,405 capitalized cost reduction, $0 security deposit, and suggested dealer contribution of $2,200). Actual MSRP and dealer contribution may vary and could affect your monthly lease payment. Cash due at signing includes $2,405 capitalized cost reduction, $429 first month's payment, $925 acquisition fee and $0 security deposit. Lessee responsible for insurance during the lease term, excess wear and tear as defined in the lease contract, $0.25/mile over 32,500 miles, plus disposition fee of up to $495 (not to exceed an amount permissible by law) at lease end. Not all customers will qualify for security deposit waiver. Tax, title, license, registration and any dealer fees and charges (if any) are additional amounts that are due at signing. Advertised monthly payment does not include applicable taxes. Purchase option price at lease end is $25,137, plus the purchase option fee disclosed in the lease contract. Additional tax, title, and government fees may also apply. Offer valid through November 02, 2026 and may be combined with other offers unless otherwise stated. Models pictured may be shown with metallic paint and/or additional accessories. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details.

Valid on 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i models. Through November 02, 2026, 0.9% APR financing for up to 24 monthly payments of $42.06 for every $1,000 financed, and 0.9% APR financing for up to 60 monthly payments of $17.05 for every $1,000 financed is available from participating BMW Centers to well qualified customers who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. No down payment required for well qualified customers. Not all customers will qualify for down payment waiver or lowest rate. Other rates and payment terms available. All offers are subject to dealer participation. Offers valid through November 02, 2026. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. Available Purchase Credit of $1,000 off MSRP for well qualified buyers. **Advertised lease offer is a national advertisement intended to be available on new 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i models from participating BMW Centers through BMW Financial Services NA, LLC, to customers who meet BMW Financial Services' credit requirements. Dealer sets actual sale price and may add additional fees and charges. Advertised lease payment is calculated based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for vehicle as shown and does not necessarily represent the dealer's actual sale price. Offer not valid in Puerto Rico. Advertised monthly lease payments of $869 per month for 39 months is based on an adjusted capitalized cost of $66,100 (MSRP of $76,250, including destination and handling fee of $1,450, less $5,135 capitalized cost reduction, $0 security deposit, suggested dealer contribution of $3,015, and Lease Credit of $2,000). Actual MSRP and dealer contribution may vary and could affect your monthly lease payment. Cash due at signing includes $5,135 capitalized cost reduction, $869 first month's payment, $925 acquisition fee and $0 security deposit. Lessee responsible for insurance during the lease term, excess wear and tear as defined in the lease contract, $0.25/mile over 32,500 miles, plus disposition fee of up to $495 (not to exceed an amount permissible by law) at lease end. Not all customers will qualify for security deposit waiver. Tax, title, license, registration and any dealer fees and charges (if any) are additional amounts that are due at signing. Advertised monthly payment does not include applicable taxes. Purchase option price at lease end is $39,650, plus the purchase option fee disclosed in the lease contract. Additional tax, title, and government fees may also apply. Offer valid through November 02, 2026 and may be combined with other offers unless otherwise stated. Models pictured may be shown with metallic paint and/or additional accessories. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details.

Valid on 2027 BMW X7 xDrive40i models. Through November 02, 2026, 0.9% APR financing for up to 24 monthly payments of $42.06 for every $1,000 financed, and 0.9% APR financing for up to 60 monthly payments of $17.05 for every $1,000 financed is available from participating BMW Centers to well qualified customers who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. No down payment required for well qualified customers. Not all customers will qualify for down payment waiver or lowest rate. Other rates and payment terms available. All offers are subject to dealer participation. Offers valid through November 02, 2026. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. **Advertised lease offer is a national advertisement intended to be available on new 2027 BMW X7 xDrive40i models from participating BMW Centers through BMW Financial Services NA, LLC, to customers who meet BMW Financial Services' credit requirements. Dealer sets actual sale price and may add additional fees and charges. Advertised lease payment is calculated based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for vehicle as shown and does not necessarily represent the dealer's actual sale price. Offer not valid in Puerto Rico. Advertised monthly lease payments of $969 per month for 39 months is based on an adjusted capitalized cost of $81,445 (MSRP of $94,000, including destination and handling fee of $1,550, less $6,795 capitalized cost reduction, $0 security deposit, suggested dealer contribution of $3,760, and Lease Credit of $2,000). Actual MSRP and dealer contribution may vary and could affect your monthly lease payment. Cash due at signing includes $6,795 capitalized cost reduction, $969 first month's payment, $925 acquisition fee and $0 security deposit. Lessee responsible for insurance during the lease term, excess wear and tear as defined in the lease contract, $0.3/mile over 32,500 miles, plus disposition fee of up to $495 (not to exceed an amount permissible by law) at lease end. Not all customers will qualify for security deposit waiver. Tax, title, license, registration and any dealer fees and charges (if any) are additional amounts that are due at signing. Advertised monthly payment does not include applicable taxes. Purchase option price at lease end is $49,820, plus the purchase option fee disclosed in the lease contract. Additional tax, title, and government fees may also apply. Offer valid through November 02, 2026 and may be combined with other offers unless otherwise stated. Models pictured may be shown with metallic paint and/or additional accessories. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details.

Through November 2, 2026, 2.49% APR financing for up to 72 months is available on 2022-2024 BMW Certified Pre-Owned iX models. A 72 month finance contract for a 2022-2024 BMW Certified Pre-Owned iX model, and an APR of 2.49%, requires 72 monthly installments of $14.97 per $1,000 financed. No down payment is required for well qualified customers. Offer valid through 11/02/2026. Offer available from participating BMW Dealers to eligible, qualified customers with excellent credit history who meet BMW Financial Services NA, LLC credit requirements. Not all customers will qualify for the lowest rate or down payment waiver. Other rates and terms available. All offers subject to vehicle availability.

BMW of Murrieta is registered with the California Bureau of Automotive Repair. B.A.R. Registration #ARD299673. Phone: (951) 249-8000

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41430 Auto Mall Parkway, Murrieta, CA, 92562
BMW of Murrieta 33.531420, -117.170690.