Hi Gang!

I drive an A8 as my main car and I'm seriously considering getting a 400h next time. I'm in the mood for an SUV and a bit of a "green" consumer.

But, I live where it snows, and the "part-time" AWD designation scares me --- particularly as I am used to Audi's meticulous Quattro.

I'm having a hard time finding out what part-time AWD is anyway. There aren't any decent descriptions. Also - anectdotally - how have the cars been doing in the snow???

Thanks....

- Thinker

 

The major difference between the Quattro and the "part-time" AWD system on the RX400h is that the Quattro sends powers to all four wheels all the time, while the electric-motor based rear axle on the RX400h is controlled by the ECU and is activated "on-demand" -- during harder acceleration when more juice is needed, or when slippage is detected. To some extent you can also call the Quattro a more "proactive" system, while the 400h is more a "passive" system.

As I mentioned in my previous post, I drove through the first bizzard last November from Columbus, OH to Toronto, ON. I have the stock Michelin and have no problem driving through the snow. The handling won't be as swift as your A8 for sure.

If you really like the RX and need the extra peace of mind, and if you see a lot of snow and steep slope, get the RX350 AWD instead.