Top 10 Cheapest AWD Cars and Crossovers

Some people like the confidence of an all-wheel drive setup, which offers additional stability in less than ideal driving conditions.

However, pushing two additional drive-wheels isn’t cheap, and isn’t as fuel efficient. Here’s AutoGuide’s top 10 most affordable all-wheel drive cars.

Despite the Subaru XV Crosstrek having the same MSRP as the Forester, the two cars have different delivery charges. In this case the XV comes up slightly less after destination and delivery, costing just $22,790. The XV Crosstrek comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission which works the all-wheel drivetrain. The 2.0-liter flat-four engine makes just 148 hp, but that’s plenty to move this compact crossover, even in tricky terrain.

Nissan’s compact crossover is an excellent value, costing just $22,455 for a CVT equipped all-wheel drive model. That CVT helps the vehicle still achieve solid fuel economy numbers, rated at 22 mpg city and 27 mpg combined and 24 mpg combined. The Rogue’s design is getting a bit dated, but its powertrain still stands up, with the 2.5-liter engine helping to put out 170 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque.

If you’re in the market for a unique looking compact crossover with AWD, then you can’t go wrong with the Nissan Juke. Making 188 hp from its 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it’s a fun, albeit funny looking, car to drive. Costing a reasonable $21,780 the Juke is an exciting car to drive at its limits. And when you’re driving it sedately, the CVT and small motor will help keep fuel costs down.

The Jeep Compass is a compact crossover from the storied nameplate, which costs just $21,390 to have with all-wheel drive. With its trail-rated system, the Compass is set to take on snow, mud, sand and rocky terrains. Jeep only sends power to all four wheels with its 2.4-liter four cylinder in this car, and when still equipped with a manual transmission can deliver 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined.

Subaru’s mid-size sedan is a bit sedate looking, but at a starting price of $21,065 it’s an excellent bargain for those looking for the confidence of all-wheel drive as well as the spaciousness of a family-friendly sedan. The base model uses six-speed manual and a 2.5-liter boxer engine which puts out 173 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque to achieve 28 mpg combined in EPA testing.

Our second cheapest all-wheel drive vehicle is the Jeep Patriot, which is available for just under $20,000. Using a package similar to the Compass, the Patriot uses a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine when equipped to power all four wheels. The engine puts out 172 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque. Its off-road capability is an excellent throw in for just $19,190, making it one of the most affordable vehicles on this list.

Sitting at the top of our list is the Subaru Impreza, a car known all around the world for its rally performances which help put Subaru on the map. In its most basic road-going form, the Impreza is a cheap, and affordable compact sedan, which also features the brand’s signature AWD setup. Starting at $18,665 the four-door model doesn’t have the same cargo capability as the five-door sport model, but it is the cheaper option.