There are many benefits to driving a car with all wheel drive. For many, it is seen as a means to overcome rough terrain, but most AWD systems are there to improve traction and handling when the road isn’t as smooth and uninterrupted as we may like. States that are prone to snow or enough rain to cause muddy buildup on the road. There are other handling benefits to all-wheel drive, too, which is why the best AWD sports cars are able to perform so well and are constantly in demand. These are four of best AWD vehicles currently available in the different automotive segments in the USA.
- Genesis G80
Large luxury sedans are often the recipients of an all-wheel drivetrain. In most cases, it is an extra-cost option. Many buyers will simply tack it on to ensure they have everything the model has to offer, but the G80 isn’t your run-of-the-mill luxury. Since it markets itself as a more affordable alternative to established German flagship sedans, the Genessi is arguably a better value proposition with rear-wheel drive.
However, if you opt for the racier 3.T model with the twin-turbo V6 developing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, then you get AWD as standard. Extra power means you need extra control, and this is where being able to send power to all four wheels helps. The front wheels aren’t always receiving power, though. Instead, the system kicks in when the car’s sensors show that there is a risk of losing grip.
This makes the Genesis G80 an easy and enjoyable car to drive, but it also improves the sedan’s overall safety rating. Along with a great reliability record and longer-than-average warranty, this is something the brand inherits from Hyundai, its parent company. But what makes executive a real competitor to Mercedes-Benz and BMW is its stylish and upscale interior and excellent tech offering. By uplifting what would otherwise be a mainstream model into the upper echelons of luxury, Genesis has created an AWD sedan that brings the best of both worlds, including a more manageable MSRP.
- Toyota RAV4
There is a reason that the RAV4 is one of the top-selling cars in the USA. Aside from its affordable sticker, it sports an attractive design that appeals to SUV and crossover shoppers. However, it is worth noting that it’s not a particularly fun car to drive. This is despite having access to a variety of engine options, including a plug-in hybrid. The all-electric driving range may look low when compared to genuine electric vehicles, which are cropping up more frequently, but 42 miles is pretty darn good for a PHEV.
When you consider that the RAV4 has some really competitive fuel economy figures regardless of the engine in play, this marks it as a great value-for-money proposition. The availability of all-wheel drive simply broadens its appeal, making it a viable option for shoppers in colder areas where snow is pretty common in the winter. Do not mistake it for an off-road SUV, though, as it only has 8.6 inches of ground clearance at the most.
This is hardly a blemish for a car that is designed to be the perfect urban companion. It proves as much with ample cabin space, both in the front and back seats, as well as a respectable trunk. Toyota ensures it comes with an extensive list of standard driver assists, which combine with the sturdy body and available all-wheel drivetrain to make the RAV4 very safe.
- Cadillac Lyriq
If you’re looking for something a bit snazzier in the SUV department, then you can’t go wrong with the Lyriq. Homegrown in the Cadillac factory, this is a new-age high-rider with an all-electric powertrain. Now, AWD electric vehicles are relatively common, since it is a lot easier to bestow them with this helpful characteristic. All you need is at least one motor on the front axle and one on the back. With this second motor in play, the Caddy has a combined output of 500 hp, which makes it feel quite lively. This does come at a cost to range, though, but the standard 312 miles is competitive for the segment.
Since EVs often have loads of power and torque on tap, being able to split this evenly among the wheels is a great way to ensure greater control and confidence with driving. The already quiet powertrain is further complemented by the active sound cancellation to create a wonderfully comfortable mobile cocoon. This is despite the lack of an adaptive suspension. Luckily, the standard single state dampers are perfectly tuned to absorb bumps without completely canceling out the steering feeling when driving at higher speeds.
In the past, it may have been easy to forget that Cadillac is actually a premium automaker, but the Lyriq dispels any doubts. Aside from an attractive and futuristic exterior design, it has a well-appointed cabin that can comfortably seat five people. It also gets a host of inclusive infotainment and safety features.
