All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as more consumers realize that they can drive in snowy or muddy conditions without fear of their vehicle getting stuck.
But AWD are thousands of dollars more expensive than RWD or FWD cars?
All-wheel drive is also becoming more common on passenger cars; nearly a third of new cars sold in the United States included this feature.
Why is AWD vehicles more superior than FWD or RWD vehicles
The addition of all-wheel drive to an SUV gives you even greater traction and better off-road capability, making it a natural choice for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. In this article we will give you our picks of the 5 best all-wheel drive SUVs you buy for under $30,000 or less now.
It’s true, many of today’s SUVs come with all-wheel drive standard. While having an additional traction system can be a boon when the road gets slippery or you need more power to pull yourself up an incline. But do you really need it? Not necessarily. However, All-wheel drive vehicles are much more common than you think, and they’re not limited to just larger SUVs. In fact, there are some pretty good compact SUVs that offer all-wheel drive as well. And so, our selections are as follows …
5. 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon – $27,500
Why It’s Great: The 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon is renowned for its off-road prowess. It comes equipped with features like heavy-duty axles, locking differentials, and an upgraded suspension, making it ideal for adventure seekers who crave rugged terrain.
Key Features:
- 3.6L V6 engine
- 4WD with high and low range
- Detachable sway bars
- Robust off-road capabilities
Pros:
- Exceptional off-road performance
- Iconic design
- Strong aftermarket support
Cons:
- Average fuel economy
- Rough ride quality on highways
4. 2018 Nissan Pathfinder SV – $17,800
Why It’s Great: The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder SV strikes a balance between family-friendly features and off-road capability. With its spacious interior and advanced safety features, it’s perfect for those who need versatility.
Key Features:
- 3.5L V6 engine
- 7-passenger seating
- Intelligent 4×4 system
- Towing capacity of up to 6,000 lbs
Pros:
- Roomy interior
- Good towing capacity
- Comfortable ride
Cons:
- Less agile handling
- Below-average cargo space for its class
3. 2018 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Touring $16,999
Why It’s Great: The 2018 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Touring is a fantastic choice for those seeking a balance between daily driving comfort and weekend adventures. It offers excellent safety ratings and Subaru’s renowned AWD system.
Key Features:
- 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
- Subaru Symmetrical AWD
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
- Panoramic moonroof
Pros:
- High safety ratings
- Responsive turbocharged engine
- Great visibility
Cons:
- Interior feels somewhat dated
- Modest towing capacity
2. 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser – $29,090
Why It’s Great: The 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser is legendary for its durability and off-road capability. Though often considered a luxury SUV, used models can be found under $30,000, offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience.
Key Features:
- 5.7L V8 engine
- Full-time 4WD
- Advanced off-road features
- Luxurious interior
Pros:
- Unmatched off-road ability
- Long-term reliability
- Premium features
Cons:
- High fuel consumption
- Higher maintenance costs
1. 2018 Honda Ridgeline – $27,900
Why It’s Great: Topping the list is the 2018 Honda Ridgeline. Though technically a mid-size truck, its unibody construction and AWD capabilities make it functionally similar to an SUV. It offers a smooth ride, innovative features, and excellent versatility.
Key Features:
- 3.5L V6 engine
- Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) AWD system
- Dual-action tailgate
- In-bed trunk
Pros:
- Comfortable ride
- Versatile bed features
- Good fuel economy for its class
Cons:
- Limited off-road capability compared to traditional SUVs
- Higher initial cost
Conclusion
When shopping for a used AWD SUV under $30,000, these five models stand out for their combination of reliability, performance, and value. Each offers unique strengths, catering to different needs, whether it’s off-road adventures, family road trips, or everyday commuting.
All-wheel drive has become the norm on SUVs, thanks to their growing popularity. From rugged and all-terrain vehicles to the more sedate family wagons, almost every model in the segment offers some form of AWD.
