The Best AWD Vehicles For Less Than $30,000 in 2019
When you want a vehicle with all-wheel drive, you typically expect to pay more for it. But why should you, when most Americans prefer AWD cars? Luckily, many automakers are making AWD more accessible and providing the performance you want at a reasonable cost. Here are five of the best AWD vehicles you can get today for less than $30,000.
1. 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek received an impressive overall score of 87 from Consumer Reports, which also named it the No. 1 pick for subcompact SUVs. The Crosstrek is incredibly affordable, with a starting price of just over $21,000. As with other Subarus, AWD comes standard and its well-weighted steering ensures the car handles every corner and situation.
The Crosstrek will save you money at the pump, too, with 29 MPG overall. A user-friendly infotainment system, continuously variable transmission, and a suite of advanced safety features come standard. With good clearance and ample cargo space, it’s a smaller SUV that you can take anywhere.
2. 2019 Volkswagen Golf
Volkswagen is making its way back into the hearts of car lovers. The 2019 Golf blends the function of a station wagon and off-roading fun of a performance car. According to Car and Driver, AWD isn’t available on the Golf’s base model but is available on all other versions, including the SportWagen, Alltrack, and GTI. Every one of these Golf models has a starting price of less than $30,000.
Small and zippy, the Golf drives like a large, expensive vehicle. Its interior features top-quality materials and design, as well as the oddly-generous cargo space you’d expect from a Volkswagen. The Golf is ideal for AWD-lovers who value sharp, superior handling.
3. 2019 Subaru Outback
Subaru dominates the list of best AWD vehicles under $30,000 for good reason. Even Kelley Blue Book can’t deny the dependability, reliability, and bargain of a Subaru, listing three models from the automaker on its own list of best AWD vehicles.
The Outback, in particular, blends an SUV and station wagon together into a fan favorite. At a starting price of around $27,000, the Outback is roomy and functional, without being expensive at the pump. It boasts many standard features like AWD, a suite of advanced safety features, and an impressive touch-screen infotainment system.
4. 2019 Honda CR-V
AWD doesn’t come standard with the CR-V, but it’s still available on models for under $30,000. With the CR-V’s high resale value, Honda makes it worth the investment. According to AutoTrader, the 2019 CR-V comes with plenty of space for cargo and passengers, without sacrificing good fuel economy. At an overall 28 MPG, owners don’t have to sacrifice economy for function.
Even the CR-V’s base engine is reliable and powerful, producing 184 horsepower. The CR-V also comes with an infotainment system, as well as connectivity compatibility. Safety features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning all come standard for around $24,000.
5. 2019 Subaru Impreza
Who says AWD vehicles have to be large and bulky? Subaru is here to prove otherwise, with the Impreza sedan/hatchback. The best compact car according to Consumer Reports, the 2019 Impreza is small, surprisingly roomy, and comfortable. It handles the road with agility and silence.
With a starting price of under $20,000, you may not be able to find a better bargain. But a lower sticker price doesn’t mean poorer quality. You’ll get standard AWD, an average of 30 MPG overall, an impressive interior, and a slew of safety features. The 2019 Subaru Impreza is an impression-maker, without making too big of an impression of your wallet.