I have a new 4WD Suzuki SX4.

My first attempt to use it in the snow and it failed to get up my drive with a shallow gradient (about 7 degrees) in 4 inches of fresh uncompacted snow.

4WD was locked on but the back wheels were spinning, struggling for grip but the front wheels were not turning.

After a short time there was a burning friction lining smell so I gave up and got the shovel out to clear the drive.

Surely this can't be correct?

Any advice on known problems with Suzuki 4WD systems? The Ford Focus I traded in performed much better in the snow!