Driving in Boardman, Ohio, on rainy and snowy days can be challenging or dangerous. The wet and slippery roads can make it harder to control your car, increasing your chances of skidding and spinning out. So, if you're planning to purchase a Mitsubishi vehicle, choosing a model with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is a good idea. AWD can improve traction and handling in inclement weather, giving you a safer and more secure driving experience. Let's look at Mitsubishi's unique AWD system and which models you should consider if you want an AWD vehicle.
How Does Mitsubishi's AWD System Work?
Not all AWD systems are created equal. Some are more effective than others in maintaining proper traction with the road surface. Fortunately, if you decide to buy a Mitsubishi, you'll have access to one of the best AWD systems in the automotive industry. Mitsubishi has proven itself with numerous victories in rally championships.
Referred to as the Super All-Wheel-Control (S-AWC) system, Mitsubishi's AWD system differs from other auto manufacturers. In most AWD vehicles, the torque output from the engine is divided evenly between the front and rear axles. S-AWC, on the other hand, distributes power between the front and rear axles on an as-needed basis.
The S-AWC system can control the vehicle more precisely during acceleration, cornering, and braking by providing more targeted and varied torque. This control dramatically improves handling and stability, making driving the car easier and more enjoyable. Additionally, a model with S-AWC delivers excellent performance in slippery conditions, such as snowy weather and off-road situations.
To understand how Mitsubishi's S-AWC system works, you need to learn about the three main elements of the system listed below:
- Active Center Differential (ACD): ACD uses a special sensor to monitor how much torque goes to the front and rear wheels. The vehicle uses this information to achieve the right torque distribution between the front and rear axles, keeping the steering response and traction balanced.
- Active Yaw Control (AYC): The main function of AYC is to reduce wheelspin during quick acceleration. It controls the power steering and brakes and makes real-time adjustments to keep spinning and traction loss to a minimum.
- Active Stability Control (ASC): Using a series of sensors, ASC keeps an eye out for a shaky steering wheel and traction loss when driving in wet and slick road conditions. If your vehicle is about to go out of control, it'll automatically adjust engine power and apply the brakes to one or more of the wheels. Your car will regain stability and composure, keeping you and your passengers safe.
Which Mitsubishi Models Have an AWD System?
Mitsubishi offers its unique S-AWC system on most models in its current lineup, so it's readily available if you want a vehicle with S-AWC. The system is standard on certain models and optional on others. Even if AWD is only available as an option, it's worth the extra money, as it can contribute to a more reassuring and safer driving experience. The following are a few Mitsubishi models that come with AWD:
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Getting the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a good idea if you regularly drive in an urban environment. Because of its small dimensions, this subcompact SUV is a breeze maneuvering in heavy traffic, parking lots, and other confined situations. It also has an impressive fuel economy rating of 26/29 mpg (city/highway), which is above average in its segment.
Available in ES, LE, SE, and SEL trim levels, the 2023 version of the Eclipse Cross comes standard with Mitsubishi's S-AWC system. It previously was an option that cost extra.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Need to ferry your family around Boardman? Then, you'll be better off choosing the Mitsubishi Outlander. Offered in ES, SE, Black Edition, SEL, and 40th Anniversary trims, this Mitsubishi model seats up to seven people in three rows and features an upscale cabin with plenty of passenger and cargo space. It also comes with a long list of standard features, making it a better value proposition than most of its rivals.
With a 181-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine under its hood, the Outlander gets off the line quickly and effortlessly handles most driving tasks. It comes standard with front-wheel drive, but you can get AWD. Whether running errands in Boardman or cruising on the highway, you can expect this SUV to deliver a smooth and composed ride. It's also capable of tackling rough terrain, especially with AWD.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
If fuel economy is one of your main considerations when purchasing a vehicle, the Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is ideal. This model comes in seven trim levels: ES, SE, SE Technology, SEL, SEL Touring, SEL Premium, and 40th Anniversary. It shares many similarities with the gas-powered Outlander, but it gets its power from a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This powertrain comprises a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a pair of electric motors that combine for a total output of 248 horsepower. It works exclusively with AWD.
When it's running on gasoline, the Outlander PHEV returns 25/27 mpg. However, if you consider its 38-mile electric-only driving range, the fuel-efficiency rating goes up to 64 mpg-equivalent combined.
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The Outlander Sport is another Mitsubishi model that has available AWD. This crossover has two engine options: the base 148-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder and the optional 168-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder. You can pair both units with AWD. Trim options include the S, ES, LE, BE, SE, and GT.
If you're interested in getting an AWD Mitsubishi, consider stopping by Boardman Mitsubishi for a test drive. Serving Boardman, Youngstown, Canfield, North Lima, Columbiana, and Austintown, our dealership has a large selection of new and used Mitsubishi vehicles available. Whether you need an easy-to-drive vehicle for urban commuting or something that can handle rugged terrain, you'll have no trouble finding something on our lot that fits your budget and driving needs. Contact us online or give us a call at (888) 891-9049 to schedule a test drive and check out Mitsubishi's AWD system for yourself.