A Dodge Charger GT AWD sedan kicks up snow from the left side of the car.

5 Used American AWD Cars to Kill Your Commute With Grip in 2023

Just because you live in a climate with frequent snow, rain, and muck doesn't mean you can't drive a stylish American sedan. These AWD cars have you covered.

by Erik Sherman

Published on September 22, 2023 4:20 pm

2 min read

In a country known for its vast landscapes and diverse climates, having a car that can confidently and safely handle various road conditions is a real asset. Still, if you don’t want an Audi, with its tenured four-wheeled grip, you can opt for a large, comfortable, used American car with all-wheel drive (AWD). Whether planning a cross-country road trip or simply navigating your daily commute, AWD cars like the 2022 Chrysler 300S, Dodge Charger GT, and 2020 Lincoln Continental are ready to take you there with style and confidence.

Which American cars have AWD?

Many American cars offer AWD as an option beyond standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or tail-happy rear-wheel drive (RWD). For instance, the Chrysler 300S and Dodge Charger GT from the Mopar side have the option.

2022 Chrysler 300S
2022 Dodge Charger GT
2020 Lincoln Continental
2020 Lincoln MKZ
2019 Buick LaCrosse

Each of these star-spangled sedans offers AWD. Still, unlike some offerings from Audi or Subaru, the grippy AWD isn’t standard equipment. Instead, fans will have to seek out one of these used cars with the option in lieu of RWD or FWD.

The soon-to-be-discontinued Chrysler 300S offers grippy AWD

A 2022 Chrysler 300S shows off its AWD car proportions and white paintwork. — Chrysler 300S | Stellantis

The Chrysler 300S is heading to discontinuation station after 2023, but its current LD platform offers some versatility. Most notably, fans could get a 2022 Chrysler 300S with all the panache of the Charger sibling and grippy AWD.

Does Dodge make AWD cars?

A Dodge Charger GT AWD kicks up snow from the rear of the car. — A Dodge Charger GT | Stellantis

Dodge has two AWD cars in its recent lineup: the four-door Charger and the two-door Challenger. However, like the Chrysler 300, Stellantis will discontinue it after 2023. Furthermore, only the 3.6L Pentastar-powered SXT and GT trims accommodate all-wheel grip; no AWD with the HEMI V8 versions.

Of course, as with the 2022 Chrysler 300S, opting for AWD adds poundage and drops fuel economy. Specifically, the Charger GT AWD gains 133 lbs and loses three miles of highway mileage compared to its RWD facsimile.

Is the 2020 Lincoln Continental AWD?

A used white Lincoln Continental luxury car cruises down city streets. — 2020 Lincoln Continental | Ford

The 2020 Lincoln Continental comes with front-wheel drive as standard. However, drivers in challenging climates can find a tenth-generation Continental with optional all-wheel drive. Better yet, thrill seekers can find one of the AWD Continentals with the deceptively capable twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 engines to the tune of 400 horsepower.

What is the gas mileage on the Lincoln MKZ AWD?

Not unlike the larger 2020 Lincoln Continental, the now-discontinued CD4-platform MKZ also offered AWD. Unsurprisingly, the heavier AWD system drops fuel economy compared to the FWD versions. AWD MKZ drivers can expect around 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, about 2.0 fewer highway miles, per Car and Driver.

Does a Buick LaCrosse have AWD?

The 2019 Buick LaCrosse was the last of its kind before the automaker discontinued it. However, it wasn’t without its perks; the model offered AWD and an optional 310-horsepower 3.6L V6. Consequently, the sedan was a deceptively quick sleeper. Who knew?

Is AWD actually worth it?

AWD is probably overkill if you live in a southern state or a community without too much snow, sleet, mud, or unpaved surfaces. Conversely, a car with all-wheel drive and seasonally appropriate tires grips much better in inclement weather than a RWD or FWD competitor.

Keep up with MotorBiscuit for the latest Dodge, Chrysler, and Buick content!

Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).