Geely Azkarra 4WD: Intelligent AWD System Suited for the Weekend Off-Road Adventurer | Motourismo

Words and Photos by Monch Henares

No wheel spin or slipping was felt. The Geely Azkarra's Intelligent AWD system had everything under control. 

The Geely Azkarra 4WD is known for its sleek design, impressive technology features, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. Performance-wise, it offers a smooth ride and decent handling. Its all-wheel-drive capability, which sometimes takes the back seat to all its impressive features, is no ordinary off-road system.

We took the Geely Azkarra 4WD on an adventure to the hills of Nasugbu, Batangas to test its off-road worthiness driving through rough roads, mud-lined trails, steep inclines, and shallow river crossings. It didn't disappoint.

The Geely Azkarra's 4WD system, often referred to as an intelligent AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system, incorporates several advanced technical features to enhance its performance and adaptability. 

Here are the technical details:

BorgWarner Torque On Demand (TOD) System

The Azkarra uses a BorgWarner-developed Torque On Demand system. This system can distribute torque dynamically between the front and rear axles. In normal driving conditions, the vehicle primarily operates in front-wheel drive (FWD) mode to optimize fuel efficiency. When additional traction is needed, the system can send power to the rear wheels.

Electronically Controlled Multi-Plate Clutch

At the heart of the AWD system is an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. This clutch engages and disengages based on inputs from the vehicle’s sensors, allowing for smooth and rapid transitions between FWD and AWD modes.

With its 4WD system, the Azkarra provides enhanced traction and stability, making it capable of handling various road conditions, including slippery surfaces and light off-road driving. The vehicle is powered by a capable engine that delivers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency.

Real-Time Data Processing 

The system continuously monitors data from various sensors, including wheel speed sensors, throttle position sensors, steering angle sensors, and gyroscopic sensors. This data is processed in real-time to determine the optimal torque distribution.

The off-road capabilities of the Geely Azkarra 4WD will thrill you.
(Photo taken at Harvest Hills Family Farm in Nasugbu, Batangas)

Dynamic Power Distribution

Depending on the driving conditions, the system can distribute up to 50% of the engine's torque to the rear wheels. This ensures that the vehicle maintains traction and stability even in challenging conditions like wet, snowy, or icy roads.

Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)

The AWD system is integrated with the vehicle's dynamics control systems, such as traction control (TCS) and electronic stability control (ESC). This integration helps in maintaining vehicle stability by preventing wheel slip and enhancing cornering performance.

Hill Descent Control (HDC)

For off-road or steep terrain, the Azkarra is equipped with Hill Descent Control, which automatically controls the braking to maintain a constant speed when descending steep slopes, enhancing driver confidence and safety.

Base camp was pegged at the beautiful Harvest Hills Family Farm in Nasugbu, Batangas.

Driver Selectable Modes

The Geely Azkarra offers driver-selectable modes that allow the driver to choose settings tailored for different driving conditions. These modes adjust the responsiveness of the AWD system and other vehicle parameters to suit the selected driving style. 

Common modes include:

Eco Mode - Prioritizes fuel efficiency and typically operates in FWD.

Sport Mode - Enhances performance by allowing more aggressive torque distribution.

Off-Road Mode - Optimizes traction and stability for rough terrains.

The Geely Azkarra 4WD convenient placed Driver Selector Mode knob.

The system monitors various parameters such as wheel speed, throttle position, and steering angle. It uses this data to adjust the power distribution dynamically, adapting to changing road conditions in real time.

It is capable of automatically distributing power between the front and rear wheels based on driving conditions. This ensures optimal traction and control whether you're driving on smooth highways or rough terrains.

The intelligent 4WD system in the Geely Azkarra enhances the vehicle's versatility and capability, making it suitable for a wide range of driving conditions and terrains while maintaining comfort and safety for the occupants.

The 4WD system constantly 

By providing power to all four wheels, the system enhances the vehicle's stability especially during cornering and on slippery surfaces. This contributes to a safer driving experience, particularly in adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice.

The Geely Azkarra 4WD looks brilliant anywhere you take it.

The system is seamlessly integrated with the vehicle’s other electronic systems, including traction control and stability control, to provide a harmonious and efficient driving experience.

Although 4WD systems can sometimes negatively impact fuel efficiency, the Azkarra's intelligent system is designed to engage only when necessary, helping to minimize fuel consumption compared to permanent all-wheel-drive systems.

Software Algorithms

Advanced software algorithms manage the torque distribution, ensuring that power is sent to the wheels with the most grip. This helps in preventing understeer or oversteer during aggressive driving or in slippery conditions.

The 4WD system improves traction on uneven or loose surfaces such as gravel, mud, or sand. This is particularly beneficial for off-road driving or when navigating difficult terrains.

These technical features make the Geely Azkarra's 4WD system highly effective in providing a balanced blend of performance, safety, and efficiency across various driving conditions.

The Geely Azkarra's 163mm ground clearance is high enough to cross streams and shallow rivers.

Go For That Adventure

The real heart and soul of the Geely Azkarra 4WD is in its intelligent AWD system. Experience its off-road capabilities and be amazed.  Take it for a drive where pavements end and where fun and adventure begin. 

For more details on the Geely Azkarra, visit https://geelyph.com/car/azkarra/