Only 1 Hatchback Model Has Standard AWD for Under $30k
Those in the market for a hatchback have limited choices for models that offer all-wheel drive, and the list shrinks significantly for hatchbacks that feature standard AWD. Among those that deliver power to all four wheels as standard are several performance models, making hatchbacks with AWD an often-expensive proposition. However, one hatchback model on the market comes with standard AWD with a price tag well under $30,000.
The 2024 Subaru Impreza is the most affordable hatchback with standard AWD
Hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Golf R and Toyota GR Corolla offer big power and performance with a relatively small footprint, and to take advantage of their performance, both are equipped with standard all-wheel drive. However, the 2023 Golf R carries a starting price of $45,835, and the GR Corolla comes with a base price of $36,995 — but good luck to anyone who can find either model without a notable dealer markup.
The 2024 Subaru Impreza may not offer the performance specs of the 300-horsepower GR Corolla or 315 ponies of the Golf R, but it still packs a healthy dose of driving verve from its available 182-hp engine. Better still, it offers standard AWD with a base price of $24,085 MSRP. Even the range-topping RS trim rings in at under $30,000.
The Impreza was previously offered as a hatchback or sedan. Still, for the 2024 model year, it’s now only available as a hatch as the model has been redesigned for its sixth generation. The 2024 Impreza features styling tweaks, an available 11.6-inch touchscreen, and some kit from the WRX performance model, including its dual-pinon electric power steering rack and an electronic brake booster. Unfortunately, for those who like to go through the cogs themselves, a manual transmission is no longer offered. All models now come equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The base and mid-level Sport models are motivated by a 152-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while the RS ($28,975) is fitted with a 2.5-liter four producing 182 horses.
The base model is fairly spartan but features 16-inch wheels, roof rails, adaptive LED headlights, dual 7-inch infotainment screens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity (wired), dual-zone automatic climate control, and a four-speaker audio system. Driver’s aids include automatic forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.
The Sport model features upgrades like 18-inch wheels, sport suspension tuning, an 11.6-inch touchscreen, navigation, a six-speaker sound system, keyless entry, and more. The range-topping RS comes equipped with the more powerful engine, creature comforts like heated front seats and a wireless charging pad, and exterior embellishments like dark-gray wheels.
Other available hatchbacks require additional dollars for all-wheel drive
Those in the market for a hatchback have about a dozen models from which to choose, but these offerings either don’t offer AWD or require buyers to pay more to send power to all four wheels.
Models like the Kia Rio 5-Door, Honda Civic Hatchback, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Mini Cooper, Mitsubishi Mirage, and electric-only Chevrolet Bolt don’t offer all-wheel drive period, according to Car and Driver.
The Mazda3 Hatchback offers standard all-wheel drive but only in models equipped with its more powerful engine, which starts at $32,450. The most affordable Mazda3 to offer all-wheel drive as an option will ring in at over $31,500 after tacking on the feature. Additionally, the Toyota Prius offers AWD as an option, though no model equipped with AWD rings it at under $30,000.
