Skip to main content

A traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system is a great thing to have. It’s helpful for excursions in adverse weather conditions, such as snow, rain, and ice. It also aids driving on uneven surfaces and off-road travel. While you might think you have to pay a great deal of money to get a car with AWD, that’s not necessarily the case. There’s an affordable model: the 2023 Subaru Impreza. It’s the cheapest new all-wheel drive car in 2023 — and a traction bargain, for it costs only $19K.

2023 Subaru Impreza is the cheapest new car with all-wheel drive in 2023

2023 Subaru Impreza, cheapest new all-wheel drive car costing only $19K, driving in the rain
2023 Subaru Impreza Sedan | Subaru

With a starting price of only $19,795 MSRP, the 2023 Subaru Impreza compact sedan is the cheapest new car with all-wheel drive in 2023. The hatchback version starts at $20,295 MSRP. After that, the next most affordable new AWD vehicle is the 2023 Mazda CX-30 subcompact SUV ($22,950 MSRP).

View the cheapest new all-wheel drive cars in 2023, with the starting cost for AWD models:

  1. 2023 Subaru Impreza: $19,795 MSRP
  2. 2023 Mazda CX-30: $22,950 MSRP
  3. 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: $22,995 MSRP
  4. 2023 Hyundai Kona: $23,640 MSRP
  5. 2023 Subaru Crosstrek: $23,645 MSRP
  6. 2023 Chevy Trailblazer: $24,100 MSRP
  7. 2023 Subaru Legacy: $24,395 MSRP
  8. 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid: $24,450 MSRP
  9. 2023 Kia Seltos: $24,890 MSRP
  10. 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross: $24,910 MSRP

As you can see, the Impreza is by far the most affordable new all-wheel drive car. While most of the other models are SUVs, there are a couple of other sedans in the mix: the 2023 Subaru Legacy and the 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid

Subaru Impreza has a sophisticated AWD system

Front angle view of red 2023 Subaru Impreza, most affordable new all-wheel drive car costing only $19K
2023 Subaru Impreza Hatchback | Subaru

All trim levels of the 2023 Subaru Impreza come standard with all-wheel drive, so customers don’t have to pay extra to get it. Plus, the Symmetrical AWD in the affordable compact car is a highly sophisticated system.

By detecting wheel slippage before it becomes a problem, the Symmetrical AWD provides confident traction — whether on uneven and rough surfaces — or in challenging weather conditions. Also, it continuously routes power to the wheels for optimal traction. 

Furthermore, the Symmetrical AWD is beneficial for normal driving conditions. It helps prevent understeer and oversteer with the continuous application of power to all of the wheels. It also results in a more balanced ride, as well as more responsive handling. 

Other highlights of the Impreza

Beyond the affordable price point for a new all-wheel drive car, the 2023 Subaru Impreza has some other highlights. This includes a comfortable interior — with ergonomically-designed seats for maximum comfort. 

Also, compared to many other compact cars, it offers a generous amount of interior space. It provides a total passenger volume of up to 100 cu-ft, with a surprising amount of legroom and headroom. Plus, those that need more storage space can opt for the hatchback version, which has a cargo capacity of 55.3 cu-ft with the rear seats folded down.

Further adding to the value of the affordable compact car are its many standard features. Along with the AWD system, this includes a wide range of safety and driving assistance technologies. 

The 2023 Subaru Impreza is an excellent choice for automotive shoppers that want an AWD vehicle that won’t break the bank. With a starting cost of only $19K, it’s the cheapest new car with all-wheel drive in 2023.

Related Cheapest New Subaru Car Is Most Affordable AWD Vehicle — Great for Snow!

Cheapest New Subaru Car Is Most Affordable AWD Vehicle — Great for Snow!