AWD SUVs are currently the most preferred type of SUVs in the United States. Not only, they serve as excellent family vehicles but with the latest advancements in AWD technology, driving in rough conditions has become safer than before. This article lists out some popular options.
Before jumping on to these magnificent road monsters, let’s understand how important is an AWD for a vehicle. An AWD (All Wheel Drive) makes driving more safe and comfortable on rough road conditions, especially during the winters. The technology works by powering all the four wheels at the same time for better traction.
Unlike a 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) which has to be adjusted according to the road conditions, the AWD technology works electronically, is always on and adjusts automatically, depending on the surface of the road. For people looking out for a SUV with an AWD mode, here are some popular options.
The specs and prices mentioned in this article are subjected to change at any time without prior intimation.
Subaru Forester 2.5i
- Engine: 2.5-L SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 170 @ 5800
- Torque: 174 @ 4100
- AWD: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- MPG (City/Highway): 24/32
- IIHS Rating: Good
- Price: $21,995
Spacious for back seat passengers and a standard AWD in all trims are some of the major highlights of the Subaru Forester. It is one of the most affordable SUVs on the market and also is an IIHS top safety pick. Critics are particularly impressed with its standard AWD system which is extremely capable in handling difficult road conditions.
Honda CR-V LX AWD
- Engine: 2.4-L, 16-Valve, DOHC i-VTEC 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 185 @ 7000
- Torque: 163 @ 4400
- AWD: Real Time All-Wheel Drive
- MPG (City/Highway): 22/30
- IIHS Rating: Good
- Price: $24,500
The CR-V has been one of the most loved SUVs on the American soil, and continues to be so. The vehicle scores high with the spacious cargo, back and front seats, small turning radius, and a great fuel mileage. Another great feature about this amazing car is the offering of an automatic AWD which only works in rough road conditions, and automatically transfers power to the rear wheels during normal driving conditions.
Acura RDX AWD
- Engine: 3.5-L V-6, 24-Valve, SOHC i-VTEC 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 273 @ 6200
- Torque: 251 @ 5000
- AWD: All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Control
- MPG (City/Highway): 19/27
- IIHS Rating: Good
- Price: $36,000
Although luxurious the Acura RDX is not just good looks and interiors, it is also a powerful performer and is simply amazing on the comfort part. Other highlights are the improved cabin and cargo space, comfortable seating for front and rear passengers, a very handy entertainment panel and the all new AWD is much quieter and smarter than before.
Toyota RAV4 LE
- Engine: 2.5-L 4-Cylinder, DOHC 16-Valve with Dual VVT-i
- Horsepower: 176 @ 6000
- Torque: 172 @ 4100
- AWD: Dynamic Torque Control AWD
- MPG (City/Highway): 22/29
- IIHS Rating: Good
- Price: $25,000
In spite of some good competition in the SUV segment, the RAV4 still remains a favorite due to its rich history and a reliable reputation. The present generation RAV-4 comes with great passenger configurations, comfortable driving, versatile cargo space and an AWD which further adds a perfect grip on unpleasant roads.
Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
- Engine: 2.4L GDI DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 190 @ 6300
- Torque: 181 @ 4250
- AWD: Electronic AWD
- MPG (City/Highway): 20/26
- IIHS Rating: Good
- Price: $26,300
Last year this beautiful SUV could only seat five people but after remodeling, Hyundai now sells it as a seven-seater. The car is practical, reliable and worth every cent spent on it. An impressive warranty, good fuel economy, amazing interiors makes Santa Fe an attractive option for consumers preferring an AWD SUV. Its AWD mode is also pretty decent and handles difficult roads and weather conditions easily.
Audi Q7 3.0T Premium
- Engine: 3.0L TFSI
- Horsepower: 280 @ 4920
- Torque: 295 @ 2250
- AWD: Quattro All-Wheel Drive
- MPG (City/Highway): 16/22
- IIHS Rating: Good
- Price: $46,800
The Audi Q7 is one of the best options around and its world-class German engineering impresses everyone in the first go. For people who can afford the hefty price tag, the Q7 is the best AWD SUV there is. Another great feature of the car is the Quattro All-Wheel Drive which is standard in all the trims.
Other than the great SUVs mentioned above, the KIA Sportage LX, Buick Enclave Convenience, Nissan Murano S, Lincoln MKT, and Mitsubishi Outlander are great picks. The following options have received excellent ratings from critics and also feature on the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) list of safest SUVs.