I'm talking about the repeatable, objective performance measurements that C&D uses for every vehicle they test. That is the only apples-to-apples comparison you will find, and it shows the FWD to be a better performer in those conditions.
Just read the C& D report. Doesn't sound too objective when they are comparing the AWD with all-seasons versus a FWD with snow tires.
Also based on C&D report
"Just as it does in snow, an AWD system's ability to deliver torque four ways and feed it to four tires, rather than two, reduces any individual tire's tendency to spin when accelerating in a straight line or while powering through a corner. This means faster acceleration from rest with less burned rubber and, for expert drivers who push their cars hard, the confidence to hit the accelerator in a corner with less chance of slewing sideways or, worse, spinning out."
Do you really think you can accelerate out of mud or sand faster than an AWD ?
And you are wrong, the CX-5 does NOT have a "rear biased" AWD system.
Fair enough. There is conflicting information on websites and forums/posts concerning the AWD and whether its front or rear biased. Maybe I'm wrong. But need to know the answer. Stay tuned for response from Mazda corporate which will post here then we will all know for sure.
Yes, it is correct, according to C&D's testing.
You really think the AWD version has shorter braking distance than FWD in snow/ice/rain? How is that possible? AWD has nothing to do with stopping/braking. If anything, braking distances would be LONGER in such conditions, because it is heavier.
Again, just read the C& D report. Doesn't sound too objective when they are comparing the AWD with all-seasons versus a FWD with snow tires.
Per C&D "An AWD sedan on all-season tires has significantly less traction for turning or braking on snowy roads than a front- or rear-wheel-drive sedan does on a set of four winter (snow) tires. We proved as much in a Car and Driver winter-tire test that we conducted several years ago, "
Lets see apples to apples comparison of AWD versus FWD with the same tires for an objective report.
I stated there is lower complexity with FWD, which is indisputable, as the AWD system obviously adds components to the vehicle.
I also said FWD has lower maintenance, which you just confirmed, by saying you have had to change the differential fluid 3 times.
Ok , the AWD drive is more complex. you are correct.
But don't scare people away from an AWD vehicle by saying it is way more repairs and maintenance. To most, they envision hundreds & thousands of $$ in maintenance/repair when blanket phrase like that are made.
I just provided some real world figures... less than $ 100 over 16 years for differential oil. It was actually more like $80 total which would break down to $5 per year( less than a Starbucks)...
Even if you paid a mechanic to do it, it might add $30-50 labor per oil change...so maybe $8-10 per year.
And that was 85 % highway use with light to moderate off-roading (15%). Now of course any severe off-roader might be breaking suspensions, etc. but that's why you buy a Jeep. Or unless of course you are one of the few unlucky ones and have to repair an AWD system. Again the percentage is probably the same as those with AWD or FWD that have engine failure or powertrain/drivetrain failure, etc.
and its all covered under your warranty period (5 yr/60k new) or (7 yr/84 k CPO - preowned)
*for those who are unfamiliar with the terms, the Final drive housing is your differential.
Front/Rear drive system
- Final Drive Housing and all internally lubricated parts
- Manual and automatic hub (4×4)
- Front wheel hubs and bearings (FWD Transaxles)
- Rear axle housing and all internally lubricated parts
- Axle/drive shafts
- Propeller shaft (RWD and AWD only)
- Universal joints
- Constant velocity joints
- Rear axle/hub bearings (RWD and AWD only)
- Seals and gaskets