What does symmetrical mean all wheel drive mean?

Answer 1

Symmetrical AWD refers to a concept where the system of components that delivers power to wheels is centered in the middle of the car, and is symmetrical left-to-right. In most vehicles, parts of the powertrain are positioned off center. For example: the engine power would be directed straight back to a transfer case which would have two outputs: one straight back to the rear axle, and one offset to the side to direct it to the front axle. Modern AWD systems that are FWD based are symmetrical in that the centered PTU delivers torque from the transaxle straight down the middle of the vehicle direct to a RDM. This symmetrical layout theoretically gives you better handling characteristics because the weight is balanced but that is not likely in reality. Simply by adding or subtracting a passenger from your vehicle would have a more noticeable affect (i.e. not noticeable at all).