4Motion

What is Volkswagen's 4Motion technology?

The term 4Motion refers to the all-wheel-drive technology specific to the German manufacturer Volkswagen. Far from being a mere gimmick, this system was designed to provide increased safety, stability, and versatility to the brand's vehicles. It distributes engine power not just to two wheels (front-wheel or rear-wheel drive), but to all four. This intelligent and adaptive torque distribution guarantees optimal traction under all circumstances, whether on a snowy road, a wet surface, or during dynamic driving.

How does the 4Motion system work?

The operation of 4Motion varies primarily depending on the vehicle's architecture. There are two main configurations:

• For transverse engines (Golf, Tiguan, Passat, T-Roc, etc.): The majority of Volkswagens equipped with 4Motion use a system based on a Haldex coupling. This is an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch located in front of the rear differential. Under normal conditions, the vehicle behaves like a front-wheel-drive car to limit fuel consumption. However, sensors continuously analyze wheel rotation speeds. At the slightest sign of front-wheel slip, the system can engage the rear axle in just a few milliseconds, transferring up to 50% of the torque to restore grip.
• For longitudinal engines (Touareg, Amarok, etc.): On these more robust models, 4Motion can utilize a self-locking central differential, often of the Torsen type. This mechanical system provides permanent all-wheel drive, continuously distributing torque between the front and rear axles (for example, with a default 40/60 split). This configuration is particularly appreciated for its off-road capabilities and ruggedness.

What are the main benefits of 4Motion?

Opting for a Volkswagen model equipped with 4Motion delivers concrete benefits in everyday driving and in tricky situations.

• Enhanced safety: On wet, snowy, or icy roads, 4Motion significantly reduces the risk of losing control. By distributing driving force across all four wheels, it limits wheel slip and ensures better vehicle steering response.
• Traction and performance: When starting from a standstill or exiting a tight corner, the system prevents front-wheel slip, allowing all the power to be effectively put down on the road. This is a major asset on sports models like the Golf R.
• Dynamic stability: Even on dry pavement, 4Motion improves cornering grip by balancing the vehicle and offering a more confident and precise driving feel.
• Versatility: For drivers towing a trailer or caravan, or driving on unpaved roads, the gain in traction is an undeniable advantage that facilitates maneuvers and ensures safe progress.

4Motion compared to the competition (Quattro, xDrive, etc.)

4Motion is the equivalent of quattro systems at Audi, xDrive at BMW, or 4MATIC at Mercedes-Benz. It is worth noting that within the Volkswagen Group, technologies are often shared. Thus, the 4Motion system in a Golf (based on a Haldex coupling) is technically very similar to the quattro system found on an Audi A3. The difference often lies in the software calibrations specific to each brand, which may favor a more neutral, sporty, or safety-oriented behavior. Compared to its competitors, Volkswagen's 4Motion is renowned for its efficiency, responsiveness, and transparency for the driver, integrating seamlessly with other driving aids such as ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and traction control.