Which Volkswagen to choose with the 4MOTION system?

Which Volkswagen to choose with the 4MOTION system?

Complexe VW 440 in Laval, on Montreal's North Shore, near Terrebonne and Montreal-North, presents everything you need to know about 4MOTION all-wheel drive and the models that rely on it to help deliver a driving experience that inspires confidence.

Volkswagen SUV driving through challenging terrain to demonstrate the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system

Complexe VW 440 in Laval, on Montreal's North Shore, near Terrebonne and Montreal-North, presents everything you need to know about 4MOTION all-wheel drive and the models that rely on it to help deliver a driving experience that inspires confidence.

In short

Many Volkswagen models, such as the Atlas and the Taos, offer the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system.

It is an intelligent all-wheel drive system that automatically switches between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive to provide the best balance of traction and fuel consumption.

Which Volkswagen to choose with the 4MOTION system?

Several models sold by volkswagen canada feature Volkswagen 4MOTION all-wheel drive, allowing you to enjoy its benefits while driving a vehicle suited to your needs.

For daily commutes: Volkswagen Taos 4MOTION

A compact SUV designed to add versatility to your everyday routine, the Taos is Volkswagen's entry-level SUV.

The base model, the Trendline trim, comes with front-wheel drive, while all the other trims use Volkswagen 4MOTION all-wheel drive. This is often more appealing if you want a vehicle ready for Canadian winters.

If you are looking for an economical option that will make daily driving easier, we recommend the VW Taos.

Front three-quarter view of the Volkswagen Taos compact SUV
Side profile of the Volkswagen Tiguan SUV showcasing its refined design

For families: Volkswagen Tiguan 4MOTION

Since 2025, the Tiguan is no longer offered with a third row of seats, yet it remains an SUV well adapted to family life.

It relies on the Volkswagen 4MOTION four-wheel drive system to deliver a stable and pleasant drive, while offering a spacious interior. In terms of features and comfort, it is among the most refined Volkswagen SUVs.

For long trips: Volkswagen Atlas 4MOTION

The family-friendly Atlas is a 7‑passenger SUV that comes standard with Volkswagen 4MOTION all-wheel drive.

Along with offering more room for passengers, the generous dimensions of the Volkswagen Atlas provide better stability and generous maximum cargo space.

For longer journeys or the needs of large families, the Atlas is the SUV for you.

Front view of the large Volkswagen Atlas family SUV
Front view of the high-performance Volkswagen Golf R hatchback

For performance enthusiasts: Golf R 4MOTION

If you are looking for a sports car equipped with Volkswagen 4MOTION all-wheel drive, the Golf R is the ideal model.

It is a hatchback that maximizes performance with a powerful turbocharged engine developing 328 horsepower.

How does Volkswagen 4MOTION work?

Volkswagen's 4MOTION system is an all-wheel drive system that focuses on traction and safety.

It is an intelligent all-wheel drive system that operates mainly in front-wheel drive. However, a computer automatically monitors driving parameters so it can redistribute torque in a fraction of a second.

This provides the fuel savings of a two-wheel drive system while avoiding its drawbacks, thanks to the ability to switch to all-wheel drive almost instantly when the conditions require it.

What are the benefits of the 4MOTION system?

As mentioned above, the VW 4MOTION system can alternate between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive based on road conditions.

Vehicles equipped with 4MOTION are generally more economical than those fitted with a permanent all-wheel drive setup.

Since it constantly monitors traction, the 4MOTION system can adapt to challenging road conditions by redirecting engine torque more precisely.

Is 4MOTION really useful in Quebec?

Yes. In Quebec, 4MOTION all-wheel drive is particularly appealing. It is no secret that all-wheel drive vehicles are especially useful in Quebec, mainly due to harsh winter conditions.

An intelligent all-wheel drive system such as 4MOTION provides the assurance of all-wheel traction without using more fuel when roads are clear.

Benefits during Quebec winters

The 4MOTION system is based on the principle of always redirecting engine torque to the wheels that can use it best. As a result, it offers better traction and adapts more effectively to changing road conditions.

In winter, this technology is a valuable asset.

Does 4MOTION replace winter tires?

No. Despite all its benefits, the 4MOTION system does not replace winter tires.

A good all-wheel drive system like 4MOTION works in tandem with winter tires to help keep you safe. It cannot and should not replace them.

Volkswagen vehicle navigating a snow-covered road during a Canadian winter

Comparison table of Volkswagen models equipped with 4MOTION

To recap, here is a comparison of the main Volkswagen 4MOTION models:

2026 VW vehicle Vehicle type 4MOTION availability Recommended use
Taos Compact SUV Standard (all trims except Trendline) City driving
Tiguan Compact SUV Standard Small family, city driving and long trips
Atlas 7‑passenger SUV Standard Large family and long trips
Golf R Sport hatchback Standard City and sport driving

To test drive a model equipped with Volkswagen 4MOTION, visit Complexe VW 440, your Volkswagen dealer in Laval, on Montreal's North Shore and near Terrebonne and Montreal-North.

In the meantime, feel free to learn more about our volkswagen financing solutions and our volkswagen special offers in laval. A talented team is ready to answer all your questions.

Rear view of the high-performance Volkswagen Golf GTI on a paved surface