Beyond the Four Wheels: Understanding Infiniti's Intelligent All-Wheel Drive for Unpredictable Quebec Roads

Driving in Quebec means preparing for anything. A sunny September morning can turn into a sudden downpour by noon. The first snowfall arrives without warning, turning highways slick before the plows catch up. And spring? Spring brings freezing rain, slush, and potholes that seem to multiply overnight.

For drivers in Pointe-Claire, Laval, and across the greater Montreal area, these conditions aren't occasional—they're routine. That's why understanding the drivetrain underneath your vehicle matters. Not all all-wheel drive systems respond to road conditions the same way, and the differences can be felt every time you accelerate, brake, or navigate a slippery on-ramp.

What Makes Infiniti's System "Intelligent"

Infiniti Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is standard across the QX50, QX55, QX60, and QX80 lineups. The system monitors road conditions and constantly adjusts torque delivery between the front and rear wheels to enhance traction and confidence.

When the system detects slippage—whether from wet pavement, loose gravel, or early-season snow—it can redirect up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels. This happens in real time, without driver input, helping maintain stability and control.

The goal is straightforward: keep power flowing to the wheels with the most grip, so you stay planted and composed no matter what the road throws at you.

Why It Matters on Quebec Roads

These aren't extreme off-road situations. They're everyday conditions that demand a drivetrain capable of adapting quickly and smoothly.

Comparing AWD Systems: What to Look For

Not all AWD systems are built alike. Some engage only after wheels have already started slipping. Others rely on driver input or specific settings to activate. Infiniti's approach is different—it's always active, always monitoring, and always ready to adjust.

Here's what sets Infiniti Intelligent All-Wheel Drive apart:

• Constant monitoring: The system doesn't wait for you to press a button or select a mode. It evaluates conditions continuously.
• Automatic torque distribution: Power shifts between front and rear axles without interrupting your drive or requiring manual intervention.
• Designed for real-world driving: Whether you're commuting to work or heading out for a weekend in the Laurentians, the system adapts to the conditions you actually face.

If you're shopping for a luxury crossover or SUV, pay attention to how the AWD system works. Ask whether it's always active or reactive. Ask how much torque it can send to the rear wheels. Ask how it handles sudden changes in traction.

What This Means for Your Daily Drive

You notice the difference most in moments when traction is uncertain. Pulling out of a snowy parking lot. Accelerating through a curve on a damp evening. Navigating a construction zone with uneven pavement and loose gravel.

In these situations, Infiniti Intelligent All-Wheel Drive works to keep the vehicle stable and predictable. You're less likely to feel the wheels hunting for grip or the front end pushing wide. Instead, the system distributes power in a way that feels composed and controlled.

For families, this translates into peace of mind. For commuters, it means fewer moments of hesitation in challenging conditions. For anyone who drives year-round in Quebec, it's one less thing to think about.

How to Experience the Difference

The best way to understand how Infiniti Intelligent All-Wheel Drive performs is to drive it yourself. Take a QX50, QX55, QX60, or QX80 out on a day when conditions aren't perfect—when the roads are wet, or the temperature is dropping, or the pavement is uneven.

Pay attention to how the vehicle responds when you accelerate. Notice how it handles curves and lane changes. Feel how it reacts when traction changes suddenly.

These are the moments when a well-engineered AWD system proves its value.

Learn More at Spinelli Infiniti

If you're in Pointe-Claire or anywhere across the greater Montreal area, visit Spinelli Infiniti to explore the full lineup of Infiniti vehicles equipped with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. Our team can walk you through how the system works and help you find the model that fits your driving needs.

Schedule a test drive today and experience the difference for yourself.