The 5 Best All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive Cars for 2025

There are a lot more cars on the road today with all-wheel and four-wheel drive than there were a few decades ago. In 1975, rear-wheel drive was installed on 91% of all light-duty vehicles (e.g., passenger cars, minivans, light-duty pickup trucks, SUVs, and so on) produced. Front-wheel drive became the most common drive type by 1985 and remained dominant until 2017. Since 2017, all-wheel drive (AWD) and 4-wheel drive (4WD) have become the most common drive types produced in the U.S. 

If you're in the market for a car, you might be wondering: What's the difference between AWD and 4WD, and which AWD and 4WD vehicles are the best available today?

Below we explain the difference and offer information about the 5 of the best AWD and 4WD cars you can buy today.

And before you drive away with your new purchase, make sure you're covered with an affordable car insurance policy. A local independent insurance agent can help you find the best policy for your needs.

All-Wheel Drive vs. Four-Wheel Drive

Before deciding whether you want a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle, it’s best to understand how each works and their pros and cons. 

Similarities and differences of AWD and 4WD

• All-wheel drive (AWD): This means that all the wheels are powered at all times. Note that there are two types of all-wheel drive: (1) full-time AWD systems, where all the wheels are always powered; and (2) part-time or automatic AWD systems, where two wheels are always powered and the other two kick in when the car needs more traction. 
• Four-wheel drive (4WD): This used to be limited to off-road vehicles. Today, 4WD means that all the wheels are powered at all times for maximum traction. 4WD also comes in full-time and part-time options, where the part-time option typically means the back wheels are always powered up and the front wheels can be turned on as needed.

Most consider AWD to be better suited for city driving, while 4WD is more fit for off-roading. Since you may do both, the choice is yours. 

Keep in mind that the biggest difference between 4WD and AWD is that an AWD drive system is on all or most of the time. 4WD capabilities can be engaged or turned on when needed, like before going off-road. 

Pros and cons of AWD and 4WD

You don't need to know the nitty-gritty about the mechanics of both systems to understand their pros and cons. Here's a quick breakdown of the benefits and drawbacks of each driving system, from experts at various auto-related publications:

AWD Pros and Cons:

           

Pros:	Cons:
Increased grip and control under all road conditions	Reduces fuel economy
Sportier handling and traction for a broader range of cars	Increases the weight and complexity of vehicles
Works all the time	Doesn't perform as well as 4WD in extreme, off-road conditions
Comes as equipment on everything from sedans to SUVs, so you've got options	More expensive

4WD Pros and Cons:

           

Pros:	Cons:
Best traction in off-road conditions	Adds weight and complexity to cars
More fuel-efficient when 4WD is turned off	Can’t be used in all conditions
Proven, tough technology	More expensive than two-wheel drive models
Can choose when to add additional power

Prices vary significantly among 4WD and AWD cars, depending on which model and drive system you choose. Keep in mind that both will cost more initially, and repairs will likely cost more as well. 

When Do You Need All-Wheel or Four-Wheel Drive?

Some car buyers believe that they should purchase an AWD or 4WD vehicle even if they're only going to go off-roading or encounter difficult road conditions a handful of times each year. In these cases, the benefits may not outweigh the costs. 

If you're simply buying a daily commute car, a two-wheel drive car will give you better gas mileage. 

Others might need AWD or 4WD capabilities more frequently. If you live or spend time in a mountainous area or an area with unpaved roads, an AWD or 4WD vehicle might be a better option for you. Likewise, if you live in a rainy or snowy climate, consider AWD or 4WD for your everyday vehicle.  

Just remember: don’t get a false sense of security just because you drive an AWD or 4WD vehicle. You can still slip, and you can still get stuck. Always drive appropriately for conditions, regardless of your drive system.  

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5 Best All-Wheel Drive Cars for 2025

There are many great options when you're buying an AWD vehicle. With help from US News & World Report, here are our picks for five of the top all-wheel drive cars for 2025. 

1. 2025 Rivian R1T

No doubt, the Rivian R1T is not for everyone with an AWD price of $69,900. But the Rivian leads the growing electric pickup segment with excellent driving range, AWD, and a 533-horsepower powertrain in all models. Its excellent off-road capabilities make the R1T ideal for exploring trails, while it remains quiet and comfortable on paved roads. 

2. 2024 Audi A7

The Audi A7 is a luxury sedan with a sticker price of $72,000. AWD is standard, along with a 335-horsepower turbocharged V6. The car can reach zero to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds, while also providing a comfortable ride, precise steering, and strong braking capabilities. 

3. 2025 Kia Telluride

The 2025 Kia Telluride SUV seats up to eight people and provides ample cargo space, along with a gentle ride and balanced steering. The Telluride S is the lowest-cost model available with AWD, adding $2,000 to its starting price of $39,090. 

4. 2025 Hyundai Palisade

The Hyundai Palisade’s base trim starts at $36,800; adding AWD costs an additional $2,000. It’s a highly ranked AWD SUV due to its smooth, comfortable ride, roomy cabin, and large cargo hold.

5. 2024 BMW X1

AWD is standard in the BMW X1. This is an overall top-rated luxury subcompact SUV with a base price of $40,500. In addition to AWD, all X1 models have rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, pedestrian and cyclist detection, a 10.7-inch touchscreen, navigation, and wireless smartphone integration. 

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5 Best Four-Wheel Drive Cars for 2025

If you think a 4WD vehicle is right for you, consider these five highly rated four-wheel drive cars.

1.  2024 Jeep Wagoneer

The Jeep Wagoneer is a more affordable version of Jeep’s Grand Wagoneer. The Wagoneer is also more efficient and comes with 4WD, automatic climate control, a power liftgate, remote start, and more, starting at $68,945.  

2. 2024 Lincoln Navigator

The 2024 Lincoln Navigator is a luxury SUV that also provides a powerful engine and 4WD as standard. When properly equipped, the Navigator can tow up to 8,700 pounds.

3. 2024 Cadillac Escalade

Ultimate luxury meets utility with the 2024 Cadillac Escalade. While it made its mark as the luxury SUV status symbol, the Cadillac Escalade can also tow up to 8,000 pounds when equipped with 4WD. 

4. 2025 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport is one of the few compact SUVs available with standard four-wheel drive. While it’s incredibly effective in off-road situations, it also handles well in the city. 

5.  2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a versatile SUV with three rows, ready for any family adventure. It performs well both off-road and on paved roads.  

How To Get the Best Car Insurance For Your AWD or 4WD Vehicle

Whether you decide to buy a 4WD or AWD vehicle, you always need the right car insurance. When you need to get a new car insured, there's one way to make sure you're getting the best value: comparison shopping. 

Independent insurance agents make comparison shopping easy because they work with many insurance companies and can get you several quotes to review at once. Local agents are ready to help you get the auto coverage you need at a price you can afford.