If the AWD SUV is the do-it-all vehicle, then the all-wheel-drivetrain is the do-it-all system. Of course, sending power to all four wheels improves traction in wet, muddy, or snowy conditions, but in some cases, it also supplies some decent capability for the occasional, light off-road tour. Furthermore, high-performance SUVs with AWD are also able to put down their power more effectively, ultimately improving their acceleration by maximizing engine output. All-in-all, it’s clear that sport-utility vehicles with all-wheel drive carry more than just a few pertinent advantages over regular front-wheel-drive cars. This is something our in-depth car reviews layout concisely.
2024 Hyundai Palisade
- Base MSRP
- $36,650
- Fuel Economy
- 19/26/22 mpg (FWD) | 29/24/21 mpg (AWD)
- Horsepower
- 291 hp
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
- Base MSRP
- $43,070
- Fuel Economy
- 21/28/24 mpg (FWD) | 21/27/23 mpg (best AWD)
- Horsepower
- 265 hp
2024 Mazda CX-5
- Base MSRP
- $29,300
- Fuel Economy
- 26/31/28 mpg (base) | 22/27/24 mpg (Turbo)
- Horsepower
- 187 hp (base) | Up to 256 hp (Turbo)
2024 Mazda CX-50
- Base MSRP
- $30,300
- Fuel Economy
- 24/30/27 mpg (base) | 23/29/25 mpg (Turbo)
- Horsepower
- 187 hp (base) | Up to 256 hp (Turbo)
Types of All-Wheel-Drive SUVs List and Advice
Common Specifications for Top-Rated SUVs with All-Wheel-Drive
Advantages and Disadvantages of AWD in comparison to 2WD
Pros
- Faster, more robust off-the-line acceleration
- Improved all-terrain/all-weather traction control
- Slightly better on-road handling dynamics
- Stable and capable when towing
Cons
- Cost more to manufacture and are hence more expensive to buy
- Increased fuel consumption due to additional size and heft
- Rentals are commonly pricier than those of regular motors
- Lowered towing capacity
FAQs
Does AWD affect gas mileage?
Yes, typically automobiles with AWD are larger and heavier because of the related constituents that underpin them. That, along with the fact that the motor has to push harder to send outputs to all four tires, means that more fuel is required for acceleration.
What are the prices of some of the new and best AWD SUVs?
The Mercedes-AMG GLA 35, scheduled to debut in 2021, is considered one of the best AWD SUVs in the USA. The base model is expected to come in at around $45,000. With a cheap starting MSRP of $21,900, the 2020 Mazda CX-30 crossover offers good value for the money overall. For a consummate all-electric SUV with AWD, there’s the 2019 Audi e-tron which is also ranked as the number one midsize option with the best mpg figures. It carries an MSRP of $74,800.