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This full-time All-Wheel Drive system is strong enough to handle rugged driving, but so compact it's ideal for a family vehicle.
(NC)-If you love the safety and driving confidence of an SUV, but cringe at the cost of filling the tank, we've got good news for you.
It's possible to get the advantages of a four-wheel-drive system-especially great traction in a wide variety of weather and road conditions-in all-wheel-drive vehicles that combine the 4WD performance of a truck with the fuel economy, performance and handling, and easy-to-park dimensions of a car.
There are many reasons it takes a lot of gas to run a traditional SUV: most are built on truck platforms, so they're large and heavy; it takes a big engine to move all that weight around; and, because less aerodynamic than most cars, SUVs have to work harder to overcome air resistance.
Fortunately, there are alternatives, such as the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system from Subaru. This is a full-time system that combines a powerful aluminum boxer engine, a strong but lightweight transmission and centre differential, and an aerodynamic alloy body frame that's designed for maximum occupant protection.
The result is a great combination of strength for safety and rigidity for handling and durability.
Just as important, this Symmetrical AWD system is designed to be extremely compact and well balanced, with a low centre of gravity. That means a very low risk of rollover-and makes room for a long-travel suspension that keeps the ride comfortable even on life's bumpiest roads.
And fuel economy is competitive with North America's most popular compact and mid-size family cars.
So, if you want great traction and handling and great fuel economy, an All-Wheel Drive vehicle is an excellent choice.
More tips to reduce gas consumption:
Maintain your vehicle-it will run smoother and waste less energy.
Slow down-you use 20% more fuel going 120 km/h compared to 100 km/h.
Check tire pressure-the wrong pressure can increase gas use up to 3%.
Don't idle-if you're going to sit for more than 30 seconds, turn the engine off.
Plan trips-do more than one errand at a time; avoid rush hour if possible; pick routes with fewer stoplights and less traffic.
Car pool-share the ride and leave a second or third car at home.