6 Cars With The Best AWD Systems (And 2 With The Worst)

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All-wheel drive (AWD) is a better choice for driving on paved roads, as it provides greater control over the wheels and is compatible with automatic transmissions. Because of this, AWD is a popular choice for drivers who want a more advanced option than front-wheel drive. Many SUVs that may occasionally go off-road can be equipped with AWD. AWD is also available in other types of vehicles, such as sedans, luxury cars, and more. Some models offer it as an option, while others come with it standard.

AWD is a good choice if you often find yourself driving in areas with bad weather, such as rain or snow, due to poor road conditions. Modern all-wheel-drive systems have become more fuel-efficient, although they still impact fuel economy to some degree. They are also lightweight and suitable for smaller vehicles. Having improved traction on rough roads can boost your safety, and if you drive families around, you'll likely prefer a vehicle with a smoother ride over one with speed and performance in mind.

Fortunately, you can find reliable AWD cars across various categories, including sedans, sports cars, and SUVs. Additionally, many high-quality hybrids and fully-electric vehicles also offer AWD capabilities. Based on consumer feedback and expert reviews, here are six top-ranked AWD cars you can purchase, as well as two not-so-stellar options. For details on how these AWD vehicles were assessed, please refer to the information provided at the end of this list.

5 of the Most Powerful Muscle Cars of the 1990s

2025 Subaru Forester

One great thing about its all-wheel-drive system is that it comes standard, unlike some SUVs such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, which come with front-wheel-drive as standard. Another thing we noticed during our on-road test was that the drivetrain gives a modest 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, so you won't win any drag races with the Forester. However, speed definitely isn't the Forester's main priority, and shouldn't be a concern if you're planning to buy one. Where it does excel is its reliability, including the consistent performance of its all-wheel-drive.

Our reviewer noticed that the permanent all-wheel drive system provided "excessive grip on dry pavement," which results in tight steering and smooth handling. This was particularly relevant, as many consumers view the Forester as a family-friendly vehicle. While it's true that it's a great vehicle for families, solo drivers will also appreciate the AWD capabilities, especially those who frequently encounter wet or icy conditions.

They are strong choices if you live in an area where roads may be covered with ice, snow, or other traction difficulties.

2023 Audi A5

One thing to note is that this car has high ratings for driving, which takes into account factors such as handling and acceleration, according to Consumer Reports. If you're in the market for a new car, be aware that this model had a recall last year for some faulty airbags. Although that's unfortunate, it doesn't necessarily mean the all-wheel-drive system, which is standard on this model's coupe, convertible, and hatchback styles, has any issues.

Notes that "the controls take some time to master, but they become logical with experience." If you want to get the most out of the AWD with even more powerful performance, the S5 trim of the 2023 Audi A5 uses a 3-liter turbo V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission, offering 349 horsepower. A 444-horsepower option is also available in the RS 5.

2025 Honda CR-V

The 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid and the gas-powered 2025 Honda CR-V both have received perfect 10 ratings from the publication.

The driving experience of the hybrid is "smooth, quiet, and satisfying, if not particularly speedy."

The non-hybrid 2025 Honda CR-V is described as a great ride, and it should be noted that, along with all-wheel drive, the vehicle is equipped with a feature called hill-descent control, which helps slow down the compact SUV on steep or slippery slopes when driving at slower speeds. Like its hybrid counterpart, the CR-V also comes in front-wheel drive, so make sure you select the AWD package when making your purchase.

2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray

This vehicle also earns a remarkable 9.7 out of 10 overall score. If it seems odd that Chevy Corvettes don't come with all-wheel drive, keep in mind that this technology is only available on the new E-Ray hybrid. The E-Ray model is priced higher than the standard 2024 Chevy Corvette, but it offers better fuel efficiency, a 6.2L V8 engine, and a powertrain that can deliver up to 655 horsepower and 592 pound-feet of torque. This enables the E-Ray to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds.

found the vehicle to be a smooth ride on public streets, including the winding roads of the mountains. For tight roads, our driver used the Corvette's "Z-drive mode," which made the electric power steering noticeably tighter, improved throttle response, and opened up the exhaust. Along with all-wheel-drive, the steering assist allowed for excellent control even on tight corners.

Our driver utilized "the all-wheel-drive system's low-end traction to pull out of corners and frequently revved the LT2 engine up to its relatively low 6,500-rpm redline, with its revs so high that they opted to bypass using the paddle shifter. Outside of normal driving, the AWD capabilities of the 2024 E-Ray instilled confidence through slower-paced cruising and aggressive cornering.

2023 Rivian R1S

The EV comes standard with four-wheel drive, so you can have confidence that Rivian engineered its entire drivetrain with four-wheel drive in mind. The dual-motor four-wheel drive system of the R1S is also paired with various drive modes to help the vehicle handle terrain that includes water, mud, sand, and rocks.

This vehicle can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just three seconds, which is impressive for its size, given that it's categorized as a three-row electric SUV aimed at families. With its spacious interior and ample cargo room, it's well-suited for larger families. Additionally, all-wheel drive is a crucial feature for safely transporting loved ones in unpredictable weather conditions like rain or snow.

2025 Toyota Camry

Is the 2025 Toyota Camry, a hybrid that comes standard with front-wheel drive but also available with all-wheel-drive for every one of its models? The add on costs $1,525, but still, the ninth-generation Camry remains a good value and a great choice if you're searching for an affordable AWD car.

In addition to the better traction provided by its all-wheel-drive system, the AWD version of the 2025 Camry also comes with a third electric motor designed specifically for the rear axle. This gives the AWD Camry more horsepower than its standard models - its powertrain can produce up to 232 horsepower. However, the AWD system comes at the price of slightly decreased fuel efficiency; on average, an all-wheel-drive 2025 Toyota Camry will still get between 40 and 50 mpg, depending on the trim.

We found that driving this car feels very balanced and pleasant, much more so than what most Camry drivers would expect or need. The car's all-wheel-drive system, an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, and Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes all work well together. Our review also highlighted the seamless transition between electric and gasoline power, and between regenerative and physical braking, as well as the sedan's light electrically-assisted steering. Overall, considering its modest price, this hybrid sedan offers a smooth and solid driving experience with good handling.

The Least Recommended Vehicle for 2024: 2024 Volkswagen Taos

It's one thing for drivers to complain about their cars, but when the company itself, Volkswagen, acknowledges the issues - which included slow gear shifts and rough starts - as major problems for all-wheel drive buyers, you know it must have been pretty rough.

The newer model, according to Volkswagen, appeals to "young, upwardly mobile families who don't yet need a third row, and empty nesters who are downsizing". This version has a better transmission and an all-wheel drive system.

which comes with standard all-wheel drive.

The Worst: 2024 Tesla Cybertruck

Issues such as malfunctioning tires and electrical system problems with the vehicle are adding to the case for delaying a purchase of a Cybertruck and allowing Tesla to iron out the issues.

The EV has its own unique charm and is filled with impressive engineering. However, there is one drawback - the AWD system's ability to handle slippery roads is compromised by the fact that the vehicle uses a software-controlled, electronic steering system. When you turn the Cybertruck's steering wheel, which features a unique yoke design that not everyone is used to, you're not actually physically turning the wheels - you're telling the vehicle's computer to do so. This means you're essentially simulating driving a car in a video game, and there aren't any backup systems in case the computer fails to respond to your inputs - although there are safety features in place to minimize the risk of accidents.

The Cybertruck is the first vehicle offered for sale in the US to control in this way, which many drivers will probably need time to adjust to. Another problem with the vehicle is that its distinctive design - although it may look stylish to some - creates visibility issues. Paired with the very sensitive adaptive steering, this can make driving the truck challenging for drivers - especially on wet or icy roads.

5. "Tests were conducted with the vehicles loaded to various levels, from empty to fully loaded, in order to assess the performance of each AWD system when under load."

To compile this list of cars with the best and worst all-wheel-drive systems, we thoroughly researched the opinions of experts and consumers who've tested various AWD vehicles. We consulted sources like Consumer Reports, Car and Driver, Kelley Blue Book, MotorTrend, and U.S. News & World Report. Since AWD is critical for improving handling and grip on slippery roads, these characteristics were given extra weight in our evaluation process.

In the same way, the quality of the drivetrain and other systems connected to or that rely on a vehicle's all-wheel drive system were considered. Additionally, an effort was made to include a range of different vehicles, such as family-friendly SUVs, sports cars, hybrids, and fully electric vehicles, so you can find the right all-wheel drive vehicle that suits your tastes.

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