Thank you for the response. The question posed was truncated for the sake of brevity. The question still stands, does the Bronco have a dual range transfer case or not? If the Bronco does not have a dual range transfer case, then by definition, it is All Wheel Drive (AWD) system in the traditional sense. it is acknowledged that both the 4WD and AWD systems function to manage torque to specific axles and or wheels. Calling both systems synonymous by unifying the two constructs of both systems under the rubric of "AWD" is possible but ignores the matter of low range gearing capability. The distinguishing and unique difference between the two is the existence of a dual range transfer case. Once an AWD system adds a dual range transfer case, the system has traditionally be called 4WD. If the existence of a dual range transfer case is irrelevant to the distinctions of the two, then yes, all systems may be classified as AWD. The point is that there is a difference and that difference is in the existence of a transfer case which allows the use of a lower range gearing. The contention is that this difference turns any AWD system into a 4WD system by definition. If for the sake of unifying the two into one construct, there is no useful advantage other than the application of preference for all systems to be the same but with technical distinctions based on which wheel gets how much torque, when and under what traction/friction conditions. Making the distinction between having a dual range transfer case and not having a dual range transfer case is significant in off road capability and utility. Bottom line, it is proposed that a significant and material difference exists between a 4WD system and an AWD system based on the presence/lack of a dual range transfer case and that being one of dual range capability. If an AWD system can achieve the same capabilities associated with a system that has a low range capability, then yes, there is no difference at where the rubber meets the road. If there is a material difference, then the ability to distinguish between the systems (one with transfer case and the other without) becomes meaningful and useful.@Glcmranger: Not only was that covered in the opening section of the article, but one of the contributors to the article (and is credited at the bottom of the article if you cared to look up his profession/industry), @Rocketeer Rick, commented on exactly your question yesterday.
Feel free to ask questions which weren't immediately covered in the article. It's quite detailed and informative!
With great respect,
Glcmranger
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