Today, many cars come standard with all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration, and they are one of the best choices to go for if you are big on safety and want something that inspires confidence on rough terrains. Many automotive experts believe AWD cars are better than front-wheel-drive (FWD) cars because they send an equal amount of power to all four wheels, thus improving performance. Also, AWD cars tend to have better traction, since three wheels are available to regain traction if one slips.
Even though AWD cars are becoming increasingly more affordable, they are generally more expensive to own than FWD cars, since there are more parts, which would require maintenance. These AWD cars will match your taste for adventure without leaving you bankrupt.
10/10 Dodge Charger SXT – $36,245
The 2023 Charger is the last time we will see the iconic car with its muscular powertrains. The base SXT trim with an all-wheel drive setup costs about $36,245, which is a bit more expensive than the rear-wheel version, which starts at $32,645.
The Charger SXT with an AWD is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 300 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. The Charger SXT AWD is more powerful than the RWD version, which makes only 292 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, so the few extra dollars on top are worth it.
9/10 MINI Cooper Clubman S ALL4 – $36,600
The uniquely styled 2023 MINI Cooper S Clubman is a cool alternative to crossovers, and the top-of-the-line model S ALL4 is equipped with AWD that will prove useful when driving under harsh weather conditions.
All 2023 Mini Cooper S Clubman models get their motivation from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an output of 189 hp. The AWD S ALL4, which starts at $36,600, is quite quick on its feet, with a 0-60 mph time of just below 6.5 seconds.
8/10 Subaru Impreza – $19,795
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The Subaru Impreza is the cheapest car with an AWD configuration for 2023. With its symmetrical AWD system, driving in the winter is a delight. Powering the base Impreza sedan is a highly efficient 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque.
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Subaru claims the 2023 Impreza can cover up to 36 miles on a gallon on the highway and 28 miles around the city. With over 94% of Subaru Impreza cars sold in the last decade still on the road today, you can be sure the new Impreza, which starts at $19,795, will stand the test of time.
7/10 Toyota Corolla Hybrid LE – $22,800
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is a good-looking sedan with significant styling and powertrain updates for 2023, yet it’s very affordable. The Corolla Hybrid LE now has an AWD option available and starts at $22,800. The 2023 Hybrid LE AWD sports a 1.8-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain that pumps out 134 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque.
The latest Hybrid LE AWD is more powerful than the outgoing version, which makes only 121 hp. With the enhanced handling of the Hybrid LE AWD, you can enjoy your trips more and bother less about fuel economy.
6/10 Dodge Challenger SXT – $33,545
As Dodge plans to phase out the Challenger, 2023 is the last time you’d see one with an AWD configuration and a gusty V6 for as low as $33,545. The base SXT still has the Challenger’s old-school charm and cranks out 303 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque from a 3.6-liter V6.
The Challenger is a hoot to drive, even for the less muscular SXT. The Challenger’s beefy size makes it not as easy to maneuver through tight turns as the Chevrolet Camaro and the Ford Mustang.
5/10 Subaru Legacy – $24,395
Besides its pocket-friendly price tag, there are tons of other reasons to love the 2023 Subaru Legacy. For one, all five Legacy models come with a symmetrical AWD configuration that makes them a joy to drive in almost any road and weather condition.
The Legacy grips the road better than most similarly-priced midsize sedans, and the steering responds naturally to a driver’s inputs. The 2023 base Legacy gets its energy from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that’s paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) to pour out 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque. The 2023 Legacy starts at $24,395.
4/10 Nissan Altima SV – $27,590
The 2023 Nissan Altima looks more aggressive and confident with its redesigned front fascia. The family sedan offers gripping performance for every season of the year with its intelligent AWD system that monitors roads and quickly adjusts to meet changing conditions.
The Altima has the thrills of a Nissan Z with its four-cylinder engines. The Altima SV pumps out 188 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque from a 2.5-liter with a well-tuned CVT automatic. The Altima SV is a good day-to-day companion, and it starts at $27,590.
3/10 Toyota Camry – $25,945
The latest iteration of the Toyota Camry doesn’t disappoint when it comes to comfort, fuel efficiency, and looks. The base Camry LE has an AWD drivetrain option and starts at $25,945. This model gives you peace of mind when driving daily on roads that are less than perfect.
Powering the Camry LE AWD is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that puts out 202 hp and 182 lb-ft of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission responds well and shifts quickly, making up for the not-so-impressive acceleration.
2/10 Mazda Mazda3 – $28,200
Every curve on the Mazda3 is designed to seduce you, while its plethora of powertrains satisfies your performance cravings. The Carbon Edition AWD starts at $28,200 and is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an output of 191 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque.
The four-cylinder engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The AWD system sends torque to the wheels with the strongest grip to offer optimal performance under any weather conditions. The Mazda3 is suitable for your daily grind with its pleasing driving dynamics.
1/10 Subaru WRX – $29,105
The 2023 Subaru WRX is a fun and engaging sedan with a 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder engine with an impressive output of 271 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Every WRX from the base to the GT comes with a Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring.
The WRX isn’t the fastest in its class, but hitting 60 mph in less than 6.0 seconds isn’t that bad. The WRX comes alive when leaping from turn to turn on a twisty road. The combined efforts of the AWD traction, responsive steering, and composed suspension help the WRX to offer a fulfilling experience.
