Best AWD Cars for All-Weather Driving

If you’re in the market for a new car, you may be wondering which all-wheel-drive (AWD) models are the best. AWD cars are a popular choice because they offer better traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions, from rain and snow to gravel and dirt roads. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top AWD cars for 2024, as well as some key features to consider when choosing an AWD vehicle.

Understanding AWD Cars
Before we dive into the top AWD cars for 2024, it’s important to understand what makes these vehicles different from other drivetrains. AWD cars use a system of sensors and computer-controlled clutches to send power to all four wheels, providing better traction and stability in slippery or uneven road conditions. While front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) cars are more common, AWD cars are becoming increasingly popular among drivers who want better handling and performance in all types of weather.

Key Takeaways

• AWD cars offer better traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions.
• AWD cars use a system of sensors and computer-controlled clutches to send power to all four wheels.
• When choosing an AWD car, consider factors such as performance, handling, fuel efficiency, and safety features.

Understanding AWD Cars

All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that powers all four wheels of a vehicle. This means that the engine’s power is distributed to each wheel, providing better traction and grip on the road. AWD is particularly useful in slippery or uneven terrain, such as snow, mud, or gravel.

An AWD system works by using a combination of mechanical and electronic components to deliver power to the wheels. There are different types of AWD systems, including full-time, part-time, and on-demand. Full-time AWD systems provide power to all wheels all the time, while part-time AWD systems only engage when needed. On-demand AWD systems are a hybrid of the two, providing power to all wheels when necessary.

One of the main advantages of AWD is its ability to provide better grip and handling on the road. This is because AWD systems can transfer power between wheels, allowing for better traction and stability. This is particularly useful in adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice.

Another advantage of AWD is its ability to improve the vehicle’s performance. AWD systems can help improve acceleration, cornering, and braking, making for a more enjoyable driving experience.

However, AWD systems can also have some drawbacks. They can add weight and complexity to a vehicle, which can affect fuel efficiency and maintenance costs. Additionally, AWD systems can be more expensive than their two-wheel drive counterparts.

Overall, AWD is a useful feature to have in a vehicle, particularly if you live in an area with inclement weather or frequently drive on uneven terrain. When considering an AWD system, it’s important to understand the different types available and how they can affect the vehicle’s performance and cost.

Top AWD Cars for 2024

If you’re in the market for a new car in 2024, you might want to consider an all-wheel drive (AWD) car. AWD cars are great for driving in all types of weather and road conditions. Here are some of the top AWD cars to consider for 2024:

2024 Subaru Legacy

The 2024 Subaru Legacy is a great AWD car to consider. It has a spacious interior and a comfortable ride. It also has great fuel economy, getting up to 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. It comes with a 260-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

2024 Mazda3

The 2024 Mazda3 is a stylish AWD car that is fun to drive. It comes with a 186-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. It has a comfortable interior and a smooth ride. It gets up to 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

2024 Audi A4

The 2024 Audi A4 is a luxurious AWD car that is great for commuting. It has a comfortable interior and a smooth ride. It comes with a 261-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a seven-speed automatic transmission. It gets up to 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

2024 BMW i4

The 2024 BMW i4 is an electric AWD car that is great for the environment. It has a range of up to 300 miles on a single charge. It comes with a 335-horsepower electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It has a luxurious interior and a smooth ride.

2024 Porsche 911

The 2024 Porsche 911 is a high-performance AWD car that is great for driving enthusiasts. It comes with a 443-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It has a comfortable interior and a smooth ride.

2024 Genesis G90

The 2024 Genesis G90 is a luxurious AWD car that is great for long drives. It comes with a 365-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It has a spacious interior and a smooth ride. It gets up to 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

2024 Audi A7

The 2024 Audi A7 is a stylish AWD car that is great for business trips. It comes with a 335-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder engine and a seven-speed automatic transmission. It has a comfortable interior and a smooth ride. It gets up to 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

2024 Dodge Challenger GT

The 2024 Dodge Challenger GT is a powerful AWD car that is great for muscle car enthusiasts. It comes with a 305-horsepower V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It has a spacious interior and a smooth ride. It gets up to 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

These are just a few of the top AWD cars to consider for 2024. Make sure to do your research and test drive a few before making a decision.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to all-wheel-drive cars, performance and handling are two key factors to consider. AWD cars are typically more stable and confidence-inspiring than their two-wheel-drive counterparts, making them ideal for all-season driving.

One of the main benefits of AWD cars is their ability to handle corners. With power going to all four wheels, these cars can provide better traction and stability, allowing you to take corners with more confidence and control.

Another important factor to consider is acceleration. AWD cars tend to have better acceleration than two-wheel-drive cars, thanks to the increased traction and grip provided by all four wheels. This can be especially important if you need to accelerate quickly to merge onto a highway or pass another vehicle.

Of course, power is also an important consideration when it comes to AWD cars. Many of the top AWD cars on the market today offer impressive horsepower and torque, giving you plenty of power to get up to speed quickly.

Overall, if you’re looking for a car that offers great performance and handling, an AWD car is definitely worth considering. With better traction, stability, and acceleration, these cars can provide a more engaging and enjoyable driving experience.

AWD Cars in Different Weather Conditions

When it comes to driving in different weather conditions, having all-wheel drive (AWD) can give you added peace of mind and improved traction. AWD cars are especially useful in rainy or snowy conditions, where roads can become slippery and difficult to navigate.

In rainy conditions, AWD cars can help you maintain control and stability on the road. The added traction provided by AWD can prevent your car from sliding or skidding on wet roads, giving you more confidence when driving in the rain.

In snowy conditions, AWD cars are a must-have. They provide better traction and stability on slippery roads covered in snow and ice. AWD cars can help you navigate through snowdrifts and prevent your car from getting stuck in the snow.

If you live in an area with unpredictable weather, an AWD car can be a great investment. It can provide you with the added traction and stability you need to drive safely in different weather conditions.

Overall, AWD cars are a great choice for anyone looking for added traction and stability on the road. Whether you’re driving in the rain or snow, an AWD car can help you maintain control and stay safe on slippery roads.

Fuel Efficiency and Driving Range

When it comes to choosing an AWD car, fuel efficiency and driving range are important factors to consider. A car with good fuel economy can save you money in the long run, while a long driving range can make road trips more enjoyable.

Fortunately, there are plenty of AWD cars with impressive fuel efficiency ratings. For example, the 2023 Toyota Camry AWD gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined. The 2023 Subaru Legacy AWD is even better, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg combined.

If you’re looking for even better fuel economy, you might consider a hybrid powertrain. The 2023 Toyota Prius AWD-e, for example, gets an impressive EPA-estimated 52 mpg in the city, 48 mpg on the highway, and 50 mpg combined. And with a driving range of up to 640 miles, you won’t have to stop for gas very often.

Another option is a plug-in hybrid powertrain, which can provide even greater fuel efficiency and driving range. The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime AWD, for example, gets an EPA-estimated 94 MPGe combined when running on electricity, and has a total driving range of up to 600 miles when including gas-powered driving.

Overall, there are plenty of AWD cars with good fuel efficiency and driving range, whether you’re looking for a traditional gasoline-powered car or a hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain. By choosing a car with good fuel economy and a long driving range, you can save money and enjoy your road trips even more.

AWD SUVs and Crossovers

If you’re looking for a vehicle with all-wheel drive (AWD), you have plenty of options to choose from. AWD is especially useful in areas with inclement weather, as it provides better traction and stability on slippery roads. Here are some of the best AWD SUVs and crossovers to consider:

2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is a great choice for those who want a fuel-efficient AWD SUV. It gets an impressive 38 mpg in combined city/highway driving, thanks to its hybrid powertrain. The Tucson Hybrid also has a spacious and well-designed interior, with plenty of standard features.

2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 is a stylish and sporty AWD crossover that’s fun to drive. It has a well-crafted interior with high-quality materials, and it comes with plenty of advanced safety features. The CX-5 also gets good fuel economy, with up to 31 mpg on the highway.

2024 Genesis GV80

The 2024 Genesis GV80 is a luxury AWD SUV that offers a smooth and comfortable ride. It has a spacious and elegant interior, with plenty of high-tech features. The GV80 also has a strong lineup of engines, including a turbocharged V6 that delivers plenty of power.

2024 Kia Telluride

The 2024 Kia Telluride is a family-friendly AWD SUV that offers plenty of space and comfort. It has a roomy and well-designed interior, with seating for up to eight passengers. The Telluride also comes with plenty of standard features, including a user-friendly infotainment system.

2024 BMW X7

The 2024 BMW X7 is a luxury AWD SUV that offers a powerful and refined driving experience. It has a spacious and well-crafted interior, with plenty of high-tech features. The X7 also comes with a variety of powerful engines, including a turbocharged V8 that delivers impressive acceleration.

2024 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2024 Ford Bronco Sport is a rugged and capable AWD crossover that’s perfect for off-road adventures. It has a tough and stylish exterior, with plenty of ground clearance and skid plates. The Bronco Sport also has a well-designed interior, with plenty of cargo space and advanced infotainment features.

These are just a few of the best AWD SUVs and crossovers on the market. When choosing a vehicle, be sure to consider your needs and preferences, as well as your budget. With so many great options available, you’re sure to find the perfect AWD vehicle for your lifestyle.

Comfort and Interior Features

When it comes to all-wheel-drive cars, comfort is key. You want a car that can handle any weather condition, but you also want to make sure that you’re comfortable while driving. Luckily, many AWD cars come with high-quality interiors that will make your ride comfortable and enjoyable.

One important aspect of comfort is cargo space. You want to make sure that you have enough room to store your belongings, whether you’re going on a long road trip or just running errands around town. Many AWD cars come with ample cargo space, so you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for practicality.

Another important aspect of comfort is the infotainment system. You want a system that is easy to use and provides all the features you need. Many AWD cars come with high-quality infotainment systems that include standard Apple CarPlay and other features that make your driving experience more enjoyable.

Comfortable interior and roomy interior are also important factors to consider. You want to make sure that you have enough space to stretch out and relax, especially on long drives. Many AWD cars come with spacious interiors that provide plenty of room for you and your passengers.

When it comes to safety, AWD cars often come with standard safety features and driver-assist features. These features can help keep you and your passengers safe on the road, and they can also make your driving experience more enjoyable.

Overall, when looking for the best AWD cars, it’s important to consider comfort and interior features. With many high-quality options available, you’re sure to find a car that meets your needs and provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Pricing and Value

When looking for the best AWD cars, pricing and value are important factors to consider. You want to make sure you’re getting a good deal on a car that fits your budget and meets your needs.

According to Kelley Blue Book, some of the best value AWD cars include the Kia Sportage, Subaru Impreza, and Honda CR-V. These cars not only have a reasonable price tag, but they also have high U.S. News Overall Scores, indicating that they are highly rated by experts and consumers alike.

If you’re looking for a luxury AWD car, the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series are both great options. While they may have a higher price tag, they offer top-notch performance and luxury features that make them worth the investment.

It’s important to keep in mind that the price of an AWD car can vary depending on the brand, model, and features. Do your research and compare prices to find the best deal for your budget.

In addition to the initial price, it’s also important to consider the long-term value of an AWD car. When you invest in a car with good resale value, you can get more money back when it’s time to sell or trade in. According to TrueCar, some of the AWD cars with the best resale value include the Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota RAV4, and Honda CR-V.

Overall, when looking for the best AWD cars, consider both the initial price and long-term value to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your budget.

AWD Luxury Cars

If you’re looking for a luxurious all-wheel-drive vehicle, you have several options to choose from. Here are three top picks for 2024 AWD luxury cars:

2024 Audi A7

The 2024 Audi A7 is a sleek and stylish luxury car that offers all-wheel drive as standard. This car is perfect for those who want a mix of performance, luxury, and practicality. The A7 has a powerful V6 engine that produces 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It also has a smooth-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The A7’s all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, making it a great car to drive in all weather conditions. The interior of the A7 is also impressive, with high-quality materials and a modern design.

2024 Porsche 911

The 2024 Porsche 911 is a legendary sports car that offers all-wheel drive as an option. This car is perfect for those who want a high-performance luxury car that can handle any driving condition. The 911’s all-wheel-drive system is called Porsche Traction Management (PTM) and provides excellent traction and handling. The 911 also has a powerful engine that produces up to 640 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. The interior of the 911 is also luxurious, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused design.

2024 Genesis G90

The 2024 Genesis G90 is a full-size luxury sedan that offers all-wheel drive as an option. This car is perfect for those who want a spacious and comfortable luxury car that can handle any driving condition. The G90 has a choice of two engines, a V6 and a V8. The V6 produces 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, while the V8 produces 420 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The G90’s all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, making it a great car to drive in all weather conditions. The interior of the G90 is also impressive, with high-quality materials and a spacious and comfortable design.

Overall, these three AWD luxury cars are excellent choices for those who want a mix of performance, luxury, and practicality. Whether you choose the Audi A7, Porsche 911, or Genesis G90, you’ll be getting a top-of-the-line luxury car with all-wheel drive capabilities.

AWD Electric and Hybrid Cars

If you’re in the market for an all-wheel-drive (AWD) car, you may want to consider an electric or hybrid model. These cars offer the benefits of AWD while also being environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient. Here are some of the best AWD electric and hybrid cars to consider in 2024.

2024 Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 is a popular electric car that offers AWD as an option. With its electric motor, the Model 3 can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. It also has a range of up to 358 miles on a single charge, making it a great option for long road trips. The Model 3’s AWD system uses two electric motors to provide better traction and handling on all types of terrain.

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a new all-electric SUV that offers AWD as an option. With its futuristic cabin design, composed handling, and plentiful power, the Ioniq 5 is a great choice for those who want a stylish and eco-friendly vehicle. The dual-motor AWD model offers even more power and performance, making it a great option for those who want a fun and practical car.

2024 Kia EV6

The 2024 Kia EV6 is another new all-electric SUV that offers AWD as an option. With its sleek design, spacious interior, and advanced technology, the EV6 is a great choice for those who want a modern and practical car. The AWD system uses two electric motors to provide better traction and handling on all types of terrain, making it a great option for those who want to take their car off-road.

2024 Genesis GV60

The 2024 Genesis GV60 is a new luxury all-electric SUV that offers AWD as an option. With its elegant design, advanced technology, and spacious interior, the GV60 is a great choice for those who want a premium and eco-friendly vehicle. The AWD system uses two electric motors to provide better traction and handling on all types of terrain, making it a great option for those who want a car that can handle any situation.

Overall, there are many great AWD electric and hybrid cars to choose from in 2024. Whether you want a practical SUV or a luxury sedan, there is a car out there that will meet your needs. So why not go green and choose an AWD electric or hybrid car for your next vehicle?

Safety Features in AWD Cars

When it comes to buying a car, safety is always a top priority. All-wheel drive (AWD) cars are known for their superior traction and stability, making them a popular choice for drivers who want to feel secure on the road. But what about the safety features that come with AWD cars? In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the standard safety features and driver-assistance features that you can expect to find in AWD cars.

Standard Safety Features

Most AWD cars come with a range of standard safety features that are designed to keep you and your passengers safe in the event of a collision. These features can include:

• Airbags: AWD cars typically come with multiple airbags, including front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, and side curtain airbags for the rear passengers.
• Anti-lock Brakes (ABS): ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing you to maintain control of the car and steer around obstacles.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC): ESC uses sensors to detect when the car is skidding or sliding, and applies the brakes to individual wheels to help keep the car stable.
• Traction Control: Traction control helps prevent the wheels from spinning on slippery surfaces, allowing you to maintain traction and control of the car.

Driver-Assistance Features

In addition to standard safety features, many AWD cars also come with advanced driver-assistance features that can help prevent accidents from occurring in the first place. These features can include:

• Blind Spot Monitoring: This system uses sensors to detect when a vehicle is in your blind spot and alerts you with a warning light or sound.
• Lane Departure Warning: This system uses cameras or sensors to detect when you’re drifting out of your lane and alerts you with a warning sound or vibration.
• Forward Collision Warning: This system uses

AWD Trucks and Off-Road Vehicles

If you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle off-road adventures, you might want to consider an AWD truck or SUV. These vehicles are designed to provide excellent traction and stability on rough terrain, making them perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or those who live in areas with harsh weather conditions.

One of the best AWD trucks on the market today is the Ford Bronco Sport. This vehicle is built for off-road adventures, with features like a Terrain Management System that allows you to adjust the vehicle’s traction and stability settings based on the terrain you’re driving on. It also has a 4×4 system with a rear differential lock that provides excellent traction in slippery conditions.

Another great AWD truck is the Toyota Tacoma. This vehicle is known for its durability and reliability, making it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts. It comes with features like crawl control and multi-terrain select, which allow you to adjust the vehicle’s traction and stability settings based on the terrain you’re driving on.

If you’re looking for an off-road vehicle that can handle extreme conditions, you might want to consider a four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle. These vehicles are designed to provide maximum traction and stability on rough terrain, making them perfect for serious off-road enthusiasts.

Some of the best 4WD vehicles on the market today include the Jeep Wrangler, the Toyota 4Runner, and the Land Rover Defender. These vehicles are built to handle extreme conditions, with features like locking differentials, skid plates, and high ground clearance.

Overall, if you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle off-road adventures or harsh weather conditions, an AWD truck or SUV might be the perfect choice for you. With features like terrain management systems, 4×4 systems, and locking differentials, these vehicles are designed to provide excellent traction and stability on rough terrain.

Comparing AWD with Other Drivetrains

When it comes to choosing a drivetrain for your car, you have several options. The most common ones are front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), and all-wheel drive (AWD). Each of these drivetrains has its advantages and disadvantages, and the one you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

FWD is the most common drivetrain in passenger cars today. It is a simple and lightweight system that is easy to manufacture and maintain. FWD cars are generally more fuel-efficient than RWD or AWD cars, and they offer good traction in slippery conditions.

The main disadvantage of FWD is that it can suffer from torque steer, which is a pulling sensation to one side when you accelerate hard. This is because the front wheels are responsible for both steering and propulsion. FWD cars also tend to understeer, which means they have a tendency to push wide in corners.

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

RWD is the traditional drivetrain for sports cars and luxury cars. It provides better balance and handling than FWD, and it allows for more power to be sent to the rear wheels. RWD cars also have a more natural feel when you turn the steering wheel.

The main disadvantage of RWD is that it is not as good in slippery conditions as FWD or AWD. RWD cars can also suffer from oversteer, which means the rear end can swing out in corners if you are not careful.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

AWD is a more complex drivetrain that sends power to all four wheels. It provides better traction in slippery conditions than FWD or RWD, and it can improve handling in dry conditions as well. AWD cars are also more versatile than FWD or RWD cars, as they can handle a wider range of driving conditions.

The main disadvantage of AWD is that it is heavier and more expensive than FWD or RWD. AWD cars also tend to be less fuel-efficient than FWD cars, although they are generally more efficient than RWD cars.

In summary, each drivetrain has its advantages and disadvantages, and the one you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. FWD is simple and fuel-efficient, RWD provides better handling and balance, and AWD provides better traction and versatility.