Do you need 4-wheel drive to go up Mauna Loa?
Do you need 4-wheel drive to go up Mauna Loa? There is a sign at the beginning of the unpaved road that says, 2-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES NOT RECOMMENDED BEYOND THIS POINT, EXCLUDE 4-WHEEL DRIVE. This is just past the visitors center located at 9300 feet. So you can always visit the visitors center if you don't have a 4-wheel drive vehicle to go up to the summit.
What is the difference between 4WD and AWD?
Overall, the main difference between 4x4 and AWD is that AWD systems are always active and automatically share torque among the axles when low-traction conditions are detected, while 4WD systems are part-time and need to be engaged by the driver via a lever or button in the cockpit.
Do I need AWD in Hawaii?
There is plenty to do on the island that does not require a 4x4. Unless you have specific plans to go to the top of Mauna Kea (and since you will already be on a guided tour of Waipio), you likely will not need a 4x4.