With ski season in full swing, now is a great time to look at an all-wheel drive vehicle that can help navigate the snow-covered roads on your way to the slopes.
All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles feed power to all four wheels in order to maximize forward traction which can be helpful when driving on slippery or uneven terrain. If you’re planning to drive regularly in wintery conditions (or live in a state other than California where snow is a part of your daily life) AWD can be a must-have option for your new vehicle.
At Cartelligent, we help thousands of people each year decide which vehicle will work best for them. We’ve used this data to compile a list of our top-selling AWD vehicles. It’s worth noting that where AWD is standard we’ve included all sales of that vehicle, but where it’s optional we’ve only counted vehicles where AWD was added to the configuration.
10. Mazda CX-5 (Available AWD)
Why we love it: The CX-5 has a great array of available technology including smart city braking, radar cruise control, active driving display, and traffic sign recognition. The CX-5 is an IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with specific headlights.
9. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Why we love it: Jeeps are known for their off-road capabilities so it’s only logical that the Grand Cherokee would be a top choice for winter weather as well. Jeep Selec-Terrain® traction control offers five modes to tackle weather conditions including snow. Available Quadra-Trac® and Quadra-Drive® 4WD systems further enhance traction and the Quadra-Lift® air suspension system offers five height settings to optimize ride performance.
8. Porsche Macan
Why we love it: While many smaller models tend to scale down amenities and performance to achieve a lower price point, the Macan is truly a smaller Cayenne. With a choice of three turbo engines and a massive option list, the Macan is a great choice for drivers who want some punch to their SUV.
7. BMW X5
Why we love it: All-wheel drive is optional on the X5, but over 90% of our clients upgrade to include it. Active Suspension Packages and Active Steering are also available options for additional control under wet conditions.
6. Subaru Forester (Standard AWD)
Why we love it: In addition to standard Symmetrical All-wheel drive, all Subarus are equipped with Vehicle Dynamics Control and Smart Braking Systems. These combine to provide extra stability and control in wintery conditions. The Forester is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with the top-rated EyeSight crash prevention system.
5. Audi Q7 (Standard AWD)
Why we love it: Every Q7 is equipped with quattro® all-wheel drive, an Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-pressure distribution and Electronic Stability Control with Off-road mode and traction control to ensure a smooth drive even in wintery weather. In addition, the Q7 comes standard with a third row of seats and a supercharged V6 engine.
4. Toyota Highlander (Available AWD)
Why we love it: Toyota’s Star Safety System™ comes standard and includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Anti-lock brakes and Electronic Brake-force distribution. When combined with available Dynamic Torque-Control All-Wheel Drive, the Highlander can be an excellent choice for snow-covered roads. Add optional front crash prevention technology and the Highlander is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+.
3. Volvo XC90 (Standard AWD)
Why we love it: Since its redesign, the XC90 has been exceptionally popular with Cartelligent clients. Available tech includes blondspot monitoring, semi-autonomous Pilot Assist, and a 360 degree surround view camera.
2. Subaru Outback (Standard AWD)
Why we love it: Like the Forester the Outback comes standard with AWD, stability control and anti-lock brakes; and is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ when configured with EyeSight. Additionally, the Outback combines the cargo space of an SUV with a more car-like drive.
1. Audi Q5
Why we love it: Like the Q7, the Audi Q5 comes standard with AWD, anti-lock brakes and stability control. The smaller Q5 offers a sporty, car-like drive with a turbo-charged engine and a plush, comfortable interior.
Whether or not an all-wheel drive vehicle is right for you, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.