4wd and awd are sometimes used interchangeably even when referring to the same drive stlystem but there's typically a key difference between the systems what is the distinction?

The key distinction between 4WD (four-wheel drive) and AWD (all-wheel drive) lies in their intended use and functionality. 4WD is designed for off-road and rugged terrain, providing power to all four wheels manually or automatically when needed, often featuring low-range gearing for better traction. In contrast, AWD is generally intended for on-road use, automatically distributing power to all wheels as needed for improved traction in various weather conditions. AWD systems are typically more integrated and cannot be manually engaged or disengaged like 4WD systems.