From 4MOTION to Car-Net: How Your Volkswagen Keeps You Safe and Comfortable in Winter

Winter driving presents unique challenges, from icy roads to freezing temperatures, making vehicle safety and comfort critical for navigating the season. Volkswagen vehicles are equipped with advanced technologies designed to tackle these conditions head-on. Two standout features in this regard are Volkswagen's 4MOTION all-wheel drive system and the Car-Net connected services suite, both of which ensure a safer and more convenient winter driving experience. Here's a detailed look at how these systems work and how they enhance your confidence and comfort on the road.

Volkswagen 4MOTION All-Wheel Drive System

Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive (AWD) system is a cornerstone of its winter-driving capabilities. Available across a range of models, including the Volkswagen Atlas, Tiguan, Golf R, and the all-electric ID.4, 4MOTION provides enhanced traction, stability, and control in snowy and icy conditions.

How 4MOTION Works

4MOTION is an intelligent AWD system that continuously monitors driving conditions and automatically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear wheels. While it typically sends most of the power to the front wheels for fuel efficiency, the system can instantly redirect torque to the rear wheels when it detects wheel slip.

On models like the Atlas and Tiguan, 4MOTION enhances stability and traction on slippery roads, making these SUVs excellent for families tackling  winters. The Golf R, a high-performance model, uses 4MOTION with torque vectoring, delivering precise control and optimal grip even in aggressive driving scenarios or on snow-covered roads.

The ID.4, Volkswagen’s all-electric SUV, incorporates a version of 4MOTION tailored for electric powertrains. The system provides quick and seamless torque distribution between the front and rear motors, ensuring stability and performance in challenging winter conditions.

Performance on Icy and Slippery Roads

The true strength of 4MOTION lies in its ability to adapt to varying conditions. When driving on icy or snowy roads, the system:

• Detects wheel slip: Sensors monitor each wheel’s traction and immediately send power to the wheels with better grip.
• Balances torque: By redistributing power dynamically, it prevents oversteering or understeering, ensuring the vehicle remains stable.
• Improves acceleration: Whether starting from a stop on ice or climbing a snowy hill, 4MOTION reduces wheel spin and enhances control.

For added flexibility, many 4MOTION-equipped models offer selectable drive modes, such as Snow or Off-Road. These modes fine-tune the throttle, braking, and torque distribution to further improve performance in winter driving conditions.

4MOTION Availability Across Volkswagen Models

4MOTION is standard on the Golf R and select trims of the Atlas, Tiguan, and ID.4. For buyers seeking all-wheel drive as a must-have for winter driving, Volkswagen’s SUV lineup provides plenty of options to fit different lifestyles and budgets.

Volkswagen Car-Net Connected Services

Volkswagen’s Car-Net connected services suite complements the 4MOTION system by offering advanced features that enhance safety, convenience, and peace of mind during winter. Accessible via a smartphone app, Car-Net provides a range of remote functions and real-time vehicle insights.

Remote Start and Cabin Pre-Conditioning

One of Car-Net’s most useful features in winter is remote start. Drivers can start their vehicle from the warmth of their home, allowing the cabin to heat up and defrost the windows before heading out. For EV models like the ID.4, pre-conditioning ensures the battery is at an optimal temperature, which can improve efficiency and range in cold weather.

Vehicle Status and Location

Car-Net allows owners to monitor their vehicle’s status remotely. Drivers can check whether the doors are locked, view fuel levels or battery charge, and locate their vehicle on a map—especially handy in crowded or snowy parking lots.

Emergency Assistance

In the event of a winter driving mishap, Car-Net provides features like Automatic Crash Notification and Roadside Assistance. These services can summon help immediately, offering peace of mind on icy highways or during snowstorms.

Find My Car

Car-Net also includes a Find My Car feature which can help you locate your VW in a parking lot. This means you will not be wandering around in the cold looking for your vehicle, and it will be a lot easier to locate if snow started to fall as you were shopping or at work. 

How These Features Keep You Safe in Winter

Volkswagen’s combination of 4MOTION and Car-Net creates a comprehensive winter-driving package. The AWD system ensures optimal traction and control, while Car-Net enhances convenience and safety by keeping you connected to your vehicle. Together, these technologies provide a level of confidence that makes winter driving less daunting.

For example, 4MOTION prevents slipping on snowy streets, while Car-Net’s remote start ensures the cabin is warm before you even open the door. The ability to track your vehicle’s location and status ensures you’re always prepared, even in challenging conditions.

Why Volkswagen Vehicles Excel in Winter

Volkswagen’s thoughtful integration of advanced drivetrain technologies and connected services makes its vehicles some of the best choices for winter driving. The versatility of 4MOTION AWD across its lineup ensures there’s a model to suit every need, from the family-friendly Atlas and Tiguan to the sporty Golf R and eco-friendly ID.4. Meanwhile, Car-Net simplifies life with features that keep you informed, comfortable, and safe.

Whether you’re navigating icy roads, pre-warming your car on a snowy morning, or ensuring help is just a tap away, Volkswagen vehicles offer the tools you need to tackle winter with ease. For drivers in and around Toronto, these technologies make Volkswagen a reliable partner for even the harshest conditions.