Photo for illustrative purposes only.
Find out more4MOTION vs. Quattro: comparison
There are several all-wheel-drive systems, and differences appear between each of them; this is the case with 4MOTION and Quattro. The first has been used at Volkswagen since 1998, while the second, specific to Audi, first appeared in 1980.
There are several all-wheel-drive systems, and differences appear between each of them; this is the case with 4MOTION and Quattro. The first has been used at Volkswagen since 1998, while the second, specific to Audi, first appeared in 1980.
Your Complexe VW 440 dealership in Laval, near Terrebonne, Montreal-North and the North Shore of Montreal, took an interest in this comparison and shares its conclusions.
In summary
The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system is a Haldex-type reactive electronic technology. The mechanical Quattro system is permanent and distributes power to all four wheels for increased grip. The 4MOTION technology is more economical at the pump and is very reliable for everyday driving. The Quattro system stands out more in sporty driving and is more costly at the gas station. Both systems are very reliable.
What is Volkswagen’s 4MOTION system?
The 4MOTION system is an all-wheel-drive technology that sends power to the wheels with the most traction.
It is a reactive Haldex-type system. In such a setup, power is directed first to the front wheels, then sent to the rear wheels in certain conditions, as we will see below.
What is Audi’s Quattro system?
The Audi Quattro system is a permanent all-wheel-drive technology that distributes engine power to all four wheels to maintain traction on the road.
4MOTION vs. Quattro: what are the technical differences?
While the Quattro system sends power where it is needed as you drive, the 4MOTION system relies on electronic control systems.
Thus, between the VW 4MOTION and Quattro, the technical differences appear as follows: with Volkswagen technology, the rear wheels engage only after the front wheels have been used and when it becomes necessary to send power to the rear for more grip. Many vehicles at Volkswagen Canada are equipped with this technology.
With the Quattro system, the permanent four-wheel-drive layout responds according to road conditions.
4MOTION vs. Quattro: performance comparison
As noted, the Haldex-type 4MOTION setup is primarily front-wheel drive that calls on the rear wheels when traction is lost.
The Quattro system remains a permanent all-wheel-drive system that, by default, sends power to all four wheels of your Audi vehicle.
From this perspective, Audi vehicles remain more capable in sporty, dynamic driving than VW vehicles.
However, it is important to note that between Quattro and 4MOTION systems, there is a performance benefit at Volkswagen, mainly in daily driving and when starting off on snow.
In short, the Quattro system delivers strong performance in spirited driving, while for day-to-day trips, the 4MOTION system remains superior.
4MOTION vs. Quattro: which system is most reliable?
To begin with, Volkswagen’s Haldex system provides significant everyday safety thanks to its various sensors that continuously monitor the road.
Furthermore, both systems are extremely reliable. Quattro technology is mechanically robust, while the electronic 4MOTION technology offers a solid balance between day-to-day performance and reliability.
4MOTION vs. Quattro: consumption and efficiency
Between the Volkswagen 4MOTION and Quattro systems, which of these technologies is more economical?
Because of how it operates, the reactive 4MOTION system reduces mechanical drag and fuel consumption. VW 4MOTION vehicles favour fuel savings and everyday driving.
Conversely, the Quattro system is more costly at the pump due to its permanent traction.
4MOTION vs. Quattro: which to choose based on your use?
Between 4MOTION AWD and Quattro, it should be noted that, for everyday use, the VW system is more advantageous than the Quattro technology.
Vehicles equipped with 4MOTION and Quattro in the Volkswagen lineup
4MOTION technology is available on the following Volkswagen vehicles:
- Volkswagen Taos (available technology)
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Volkswagen Atlas
- Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
- Volkswagen Golf R
- Volkswagen ID.4
- Volkswagen ID.Buzz
At Audi, Quattro technology is available on many models:
- Audi sedans (A3, A4, A6, A8)
- Audi SUVs (Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8)
- Audi sports cars (RS Q8, RS6 and others)
- Audi electric vehicles (Q4 E-tron, Q6 E-tron, E-tron GT, SQ6)
Come test-drive a Volkswagen 4MOTION vehicle today at Complexe VW 440 in Laval, near Terrebonne, Montreal-North and the North Shore of Montreal. Take advantage of Volkswagen special offers in Laval as well as Volkswagen auto credit. A team of experts is ready for you.
2025 VOLKSWAGEN Taos
Other News
The most reliable sedans: compact, family, sports
There are several reliable sedans on the market, which can make the decision difficult. Between a compact sedan, a family sedan and a sports sedan,...
Read more
2025 Volkswagen ID.4: Price and Specs
Updates for the ID.4: 2025 vs. 2024 VW ID.4: Price and Trims 2025 VW ID.4: interior and exterior design 2025 ID.4: Dimensions Powertrain and Power...
Read more
Volkswagen Tiguan Trendline vs. Comfortline vs. Highline: the differences
What are the differences between the Trendline vs. Comfortline and the Comfortline vs. Highline trims of the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan? We help you...
Read more