Summer, sadly, is a thing of the past. We're now in the part of the year where the days grow shorter, the light more dim, and above all else, the days grow colder — which means ice and snow for many of us.
Dealing with winter's frozen precipitation is a major reason all-wheel-drive cars have become popular in recent years. That's been helped by the fact that AWD technology has improved to the point where it's light and compact enough to appear in all sorts of vehicles; indeed, all-wheel-drive is as likely to appear on your sport sedan these days as it is your crossover SUV.
Here, then, is our list of the best AWD vehicles by segment. Yes, this list is somewhat subjective; there are many other good choices in each category. But these are our favorites.
Best Sports Car: Porsche 911 Turbo S
Will Sabel Courtney
Porsche produces precisely engineered supercars, whose practicality distinguishes them from other manufacturers. Porsches are comfortable; Porsches are robust. Most 911 owners won’t use their car as a daily driver, but they could. Even the insanely powerful 911 Turbo S.
The 911 Turbo S will do everything you expect from a $205,000 sports car. It has 640 horsepower, and accelerates from 0-60mph in well under three seconds. But, with all-wheel drive, it can also go well beyond what you’d expect. The 911 Turbo S will not just get you to the ski slopes; it can drive up the slopes.
Engine: 3.8-liter turbocharged flat-six6 Transmission: 8-speed dual clutch automatic Horsepower: 640 hp Torque: 590 lb-ft Base Price: $203,500
Tesla is often in the headlines: you’ll frequently read about its dear leader, its stock price and its ad hoc methods of reaching production targets. Forget all that. We’re here to discuss the Model S, the sedan that redefined the electric vehicle. Tesla describes its acceleration as “Ludicrous,” which is an apt description; Motor Trend clocked its 0-60 mph time at 2.28 seconds. When not doing that, the Model S Performance can achieve a 348-mile range on a full charge.
Engine: Dual electric motors Transmission: 1-speed direct drive Horsepower: 680 hp Torque: 791 lb-ft Base Price: $94,990
The BMW M5 was one of the first vehicles to ever earn the sobriquet of "sport sedan," and in its current form, it's made clear that it deserves to hold that title still. The AWD speed machine packs a luxurious cabin for four inside, but enough performance to make them scream: a 0-60 mph time of three seconds or less, thanks to the all-wheel-drive grip, but with a Drift Mode for rear-wheel-drive antics when desired.
Engine: 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 Transmission: 8-speed automatic Horsepower: 617 hp Torque: 553 lb-ft Base Price: $111,095
Volvo is in the business of premium practicality. The Volvo buyer shares common concerns with the Subaru buyer, but needs a more sophisticated aesthetic and that little bit of extra pampering. The V90 Cross Country wagon hits that note perfectly. It’s like a Subaru Outback, but fancy.
The turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder T6 engine delivers ample power and torque, while its AWD system is tuned to master all reasonable terrains and weather conditions. A base price north of $50,000 isn’t cheap — but this car feels like it should be much more expensive.
Engine: 2.0liter turbocharged and supercharged inline-4 Transmission: 8-speed automatic Horsepower: 316 hp Torque: 295 lb-ft Base Price: $56,100
Mazda was once known as the zoom-zoom brand, but in recent years, it's set about bringing exceptional levels of refinement and features to its cars on top of their usual fun-to-drive characteristics. The Mazda3 would be one of the best regular sedans on sale even if it just came in front-wheel-drive form; the fact that you can get an AWD version, though, earns it a clear spot on this list.
Engine: 2.5-liter inline-four Transmission: 6-speed automatic Horsepower: 186 hp Torque: 186 lb-ft Base Price: $24,100
Car people don’t like crossovers. Cars that do everything decently tend not to do anything particularly well. Crossovers are functional but boring. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is the crossover for car people. It looks like an Alfa Romeo on the surface and is powered by a Ferrari under the hood.
The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is the world’s fastest production SUV, with a sub-eight-minute lap around the Nurburgring. Getting from 0-60 mph in only 3.6 seconds, it's quicker off the line than its sedan sibling the Giulia Quadrifoglio. (Thanks, AWD.) And when you want to turn the volume down, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio returns to being a charming, comfortable and nimble kid hauler.
Engine: 2.9-liter turbocharged V6 Transmission: 8-speed automatic Horsepower: 505 hp Torque: 443 lb-ft Base Price: $80,500
When you need a hatchback, it’s best to stick with the classic that invented the category, the VW Golf. The Golf R is the hottest variant; it packs spot-on steering and handling, the option of a manual transmission, and tons of grip and go. Sure, you are spending $40,000-plus for a Volkswagen that doesn't look that much different from a standard Golf. But, there’s nothing wrong with keeping things low-key, especially when driving quickly.
Engine: 2.0-liter turbcharged inline-4 Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic Horsepower: 288 hp Torque: 280 lb-ft Base Price: $40,395
Any list of all-wheel-drive cars would be incomplete without the the Subaru Outback. In many ways, the Outback was the ur-crossover: it combined the handling of a car with serious all-terrain capability. Considering Subaru’s now--standard EyeSight technology and the copious cabin and cargo space, the Outback is the ultimate practical family vehicle.
The only trouble with the Outback is, it’s a vehicle made to get you to your fun, not to provide any of its own. Upgrading to the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine found in XT versions makes things a little more enjoyable, at least on the straightaways — but you’ll pay up both front and at the pump by comparison.
Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four Transmission: CVT Horsepower: 260 hp Torque: 277 lb-ft Base Price: $34,995
Goldwin's Mac Coat is made from Gore-Tex Paclite – which is lightweight, waterproof, breathable, packable and doesn't compromise on a soft handfeel. Get 15 percent off one of your own by signing up for the brand's newsletter.
Staub's enameled cast iron is versatile, distributes heat evenly, and works with any heat source, including induction. This is one of our favorite pieces of cookware.
Anthony Bourdain always said you really only needed one good knife in the kitchen. This one could be it. It is made with a fiberglass handle and a three-layer blade construction that will stand the test of time.
Huckberry and Timex threw it back to the 70s and 80s with this collaboration. Starting with a blank slate, the brands led with the iconic cola colorway, added a military-inspired dial and finished it off with a woven stainless steel bracelet and aluminum timing bezel.
Using half bison fiber and half wool, the Bison Ultralight weighs less than a pound and offers extremely well insulation. It also sports a recycled ripstop shell with a PFC-free DWR coating and compactly folds into its own pocket.
Best Made is back and we're grateful because it means we have access to its thoughtfully made goods that are always high quality. This pocket knife is forged by a fifth-generation Japanese blade maker and will develop a patina over time that is unique to you.
When it comes to keeping temperature, ThermoWorks is elite. The brand is a leader in humidity trackers, pH monitors and meat probes, but its marquee product is the humble Thermapen. If you don't believe us, ask chefs and grillmasters everywhere.
Huckberry teamed up with the squad at GORUCK to make a pared-back version of GORUCK's flagship GR1 backpack that still packs a solid punch. Made with 500D Cordura, it is tough but not overdoing it with super thick fabric. One of its coolest features is the laptop compartment, which sits higher against your back so that it is protected if the bag gets dropped.
Solo Stove took the 360 Airflow Design that made its fire pit so exceptional and turned it into a charcoal grill that is perfect for backyard hangs. This bundle comes with the grill, a grill stand, a cover, a carry case, plus briquettes and starters to get you going.
This is your new go-to for spring. Whether you're headed to the gym, lounging around the house or pairing it with a button-down shirt, this heather crewneck will get the job done. Todd Snyder sure knows how to outfit the American man.
If you want a mask with more protection and versatility than a simple cloth mask, check out this one from Outdoor Research. It has adjustable straps to keep your fit dialed and comes with three replaceable filters that block out 95 percent of particles.
Casio's legendary G-Shock line is not only a utilitarian achievement but is also just super stylish. You can find G-Shocks everywhere, from space to the street. This one is a bit pared back compared to others, which makes it an excellent addition to any fit any time.
With a not-too-short-but-not-too-long 8-inch inseam, these versatile shorts are excellent for going out for a run but won't show too much skin when you head to the gym. Plus, they have four pockets. Who doesn't love pockets?
This desk lamp is packed with features that will make you wonder how you lived without it. Aside from its lighting, it utilizes RavPower's groundbreaking HyperAir technology for ultra-fast wireless charging and has a USB port for any other devices you might have.
Hydro Flask really needs no introduction at this point, so when you can get a 32-ounce wide mouth with its Temp-Shield insulation at 31 percent off, you do it.
Making more coffee from home now? So are we. Ditch the Mr. Coffee and unlock all the flavor your freshly roasted beans have to offer with a french press. It is super simple to use and really does make exceptional coffee.
Stasher bags are one of our favorite alternatives to single-use plastic wrap and bags. They keep your food fresh, contain no BPA and are dishwasher and microwave safe. Plus, you can also use them for marinades or sous vide thanks to their Pinch-Loc seal.
This is our pick for the best big and tall office chair, but that doesn't mean it won't work for those of us that are more vertically challenged. The ergonomics on this chair are excellent, ensuring that you stay comfortable for the long haul.
A midweight insulated jacket is a must-have in every outdoor enthusiast's wardrobe. This one from The North Face is packed with features, including a DWR finish to fend off light rain, post-consumer recycled insulation and is packable for easy stowing (or for use as a travel pillow).
Four-way stretch, seamless construction, and extreme breathability make this our pick for the best premium workout shirt. It is simple, and simply good.
This smart vacuum senses when it is full, locks itself back into its port and empties without any work on your end. It also keeps a record of its ventures into your home, making for more efficient journeys in the future. This combo includes an Echo Dot for only $10, which is a valuable add-on that has many more benefits than just the vacuum connectivity.
If you have trouble waking up, especially in the winter, getting an artificial light to simulate sunrise is a great option. This alarm clock features nature sounds to wake you up, tap snooze and an auto-dimming display.
This is one of The North Face's most iconic silhouettes. Supremely warm, this jacket comes in four retro colorways and has a relaxed cut that is both street-ready and mountain-ready.
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