Best all-wheel drive cars
Best AWD cars
Whether it's your next family vehicle or an upgraded commuter, an AWD car is perfect for anyone with a taste for adventure.
We've compiled a list of the 10 best AWD cars with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Acura MDX
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Third-row seating Responsive, easy-to-use touchscreen Nimble steering and handling
Cons
Lacks third-row climate vents Cramped third-row seats are best suited to children Sluggish acceleration
2. Acura RDX
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine Cozy cabin with ample headroom Abundant rear cargo storage
Cons
Distracting touchscreen for infotainment system Rear visibility hindered by hatch hinges No engine upgrade option
3. BMW X3
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Sporty performance Roomy interior Good utility
Cons
Stiff ride Less premium than competitors Hybrid discontinued
4. Chevrolet Traverse
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Intuitive infotainment technology Impressive acceleration Spacious seating across all three rows
Cons
Some panel finishing feels subpar Rear row design impairs visibility
5. Volvo XC60
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Plenty of space in the second row Long list of standard tech Available as a plug-in hybrid
Cons
Not as fun to drive as you might expect Firm ride experience despite the luxury look and feel Interior design feels a little outdated
6. BMW 328
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Smooth and quiet ride Upscale interior Diesel power
Cons
Limited small-item storage Tight elbow and shoulder room in the back seat No Android Auto™ integration
7. Honda Pilot
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Roomy seating in the first and second rows Lots of cargo space and storage options Simple and intuitive controls
Cons
Small standard touchscreen Third-row seats are tight for adults Mediocre acceleration and braking
8. BMW X5
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Luxurious, spacious cabin Potent engine lineup A lot of standard driver-assistance features
Cons
No third-row available Suspension is too firm Somewhat tricky-to-use infotainment system
9. Nissan Rogue
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Fuel-efficient Ample cargo volume Many standard features
Cons
Steering lacks road feel Upper trims can get very pricey Less second-row legroom than some rivals
10. BMW X1
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Generous roster of available tech options Spacious seat dimensions Dynamic acceleration and responsive handling
Cons
Jarring engine stop-start system Transmission can be slow on the downshift A lot of features are locked into optional packages
How we ranked this list
To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from September 2023 through February 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
***
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Ready to find your AWD vehicle?
Can a used EV fit my life?
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.