All-wheel drive (AWD) is an increasingly popular feature in SUVs. With the enhanced traction that it provides, SUVs can travel more effectively on slippery roads, whether it’s from snow, ice, or rain. AWD also enables SUVs to head off-road and drive over challenging terrain. While all-wheel drive can be expensive, there are some affordable options. Here are the cheapest new all-wheel drive SUVs that cost less than $25,000.

What are the cheapest SUVs with AWD?

In the past, to get all-wheel drive, you typically had to buy a big and expensive SUV. However, now there are many affordable SUVs with all-wheel drive, particularly for the subcompact crossover SUV segment. Check out the cheapest new SUVs under $25,000 that offer an all-wheel drive system, with the starting prices with AWD:

1. 2022 Ford EcoSport ($22,040 MSRP)
2. 2022 Chevy Trax ($22,320 MSRP)
3. 2022 Mazda CX-30 ($22,500 MSRP)
4. 2023 Hyundai Kona ($23,490 MSRP)
5. 2023 Subaru Crosstrek ($23,645 MSRP)
6. 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross ($23,745 MSRP)
7. 2023 Chevy Trailblazer ($24,100 MSRP)

Ford EcoSport is the cheapest SUV with all-wheel drive

With a starting price of $22,040 MSRP, the 2022 Ford EcoSport is the cheapest new all-wheel SUV that costs less than $25,000. Along with its AWD, the EcoSport is maneuverable in tight spaces. Also, its 2,000-pound towing capacity is higher than most of its rivals. 

However, the EcoSport has some drawbacks. Its estimated gas mileage of 25 combined mpg leaves much to be desired. Also, neither of the two engine options for the EcoSport generate much power. Additionally, the base-level trim doesn’t have many technologies, and to get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, you’ll have to move up higher in the trim lineup. 

For budget-minded SUV shoppers that want all-wheel drive, the EcoSport is worth considering, though. However, something to keep in mind about the EcoSport is that it will be discontinued after the 2022 model year. If you want to get a new one, then you might need to act soon.

Chevy Trax is an affordable choice for an AWD SUV

Another affordable new AWD SUV that costs less than $25,000 is the 2022 Chevy Trax, which has a starting price of $22,320 MSRP. Other highlights of the Trax include its good outward visibility and agile handling. Also, the Trax offers much value when considering its low price and standard features, including a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The low price comes with some trade-offs, though. For one, the ride quality of the Trax is a little rough. Also, the quality of the materials in the cabin is subpar. However, if affordability and confident traction is what you’re aiming for, then the Trax could be a good choice for you. 

Mazda CX-30: Standard all-wheel drive at an affordable price

All models in the trim lineup of the 2022 Mazda CX-30, which has a starting price of $22,500 MSRP, have standard all-wheel drive. Not only does the CX-30 offer AWD at an affordable price, but it’s also one of the best overall subcompact crossovers SUVs. It has attractive styling with its curvy exterior design, while the upscale look and feel of its cabin make it seem like you’re in a luxury crossover SUV, as detailed by CARFAX.

Additionally, the CX-30 is fun-to-drive, especially with its optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. It also delivers sharp handling and precise steering. Plus, it comes standard with many technologies. 

Are you looking for an affordable new SUV with a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system for heading off-road or driving in adverse weather conditions? If so, then take a deeper look at the cheapest AWD SUVs that cost less than $25,000. This includes the 2022 Ford EcoSport, 2022 Chevy Trax, 2022 Mazda CX-30, 2023 Hyundai Kona, 2023 Subaru Crosstrek, 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, and 2023 Chevy Trailblazer. 

To find out about the only new AWD car that costs less than $20,000, continue reading below.