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
4.6
Pros
Comfortable seats Large cargo area Handling strikes a balance between relaxed and sporty
Cons
The base V6 engine lacks the power of turbocharged rivals The touchpad interface for the infotainment requires a steep learning curve
2. Acura RDX
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Decent features and options Roomy cabin and cargo space All-wheel drive with torque vectoring amplifies handling
Cons
Upgrades only available as packages Some drivers may find infotainment screen too high Only one trim, with no chance to trade up on powertrain
3. BMW X3
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Sporty performance Roomy interior Good utility
Cons
Stiff ride Less premium than competitors Hybrid discontinued
4. Chevrolet Traverse
CarMax owner rating
4.4
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
4.4
Pros
Standard built-in Google services Quiet ride Large trunk
Cons
Infotainment system controls not intuitive enough Less cargo space than most rivals Outdated interior design
6. BMW 328
CarMax owner rating
4.5
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
4.6
Pros
Comfortable ride The first two rows are roomy Controls are easy to use
Cons
The third row is a bit cramped Less rear storage than competitors Small standard touchscreen
8. BMW X5
CarMax owner rating
4.6
Pros
Powerful acceleration from all available engines Comfortable and premium-feeling cabin Spacious cargo area and seating
Cons
Compact side mirrors and wide pillars hinder visibility Limited small-item storage Wide doorsills can hinder entry and exit in tight spaces
9. Nissan Rogue
CarMax owner rating
4.4
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
4.4
Pros
Spacious passenger dimensions Plenty of high-tech options Engine performance
Cons
Transmission slow on downshift Clunky engine stop-start system
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.
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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.
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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.
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We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.