Why AWD is not the same as 4WD
The badge on the hatch will say AWD or 4WD like those words share a toolbox. They do not. Both can put power at more than two tires. The hardware under the floor is the difference.
AWD is the car and crossover layout. It can stay awake all the time, or it can spin up a second axle when the first one starts to slip. There is rarely a low range. You do not get out and twist a hub. This is the system for a wet on-ramp, a snowy street, a gravel driveway.
4WD is the transfer-case layout on trucks and body-on-frame SUVs. You pick 2H, 4H, or 4L. Low range multiplies torque for a boat ramp, a rutted two-track, or a dirt grade that wants the crawler box. A lot of part-time cases should stay out of 4H on dry pavement. The tires scrub, and the box takes the abuse.
A winter storm does not turn AWD into 4L. Both help you leave a light. Neither shortens a stop. Tires still do that work.
If a listing says “4WD” on a car with no transfer-case lever, and no mode dial that actually names 4H and 4L, read it as AWD until you see the case. The badge is marketing. The hardware under the floor is the system.