Top 10 AWD Sedans to Buy in 2023: Expert Choice

All-wheel drive (AWD) is already standard on many automobile models and is increasingly offered on crossovers that sit between traditional cars and SUVs. Although all-wheel drive (AWD) was originally only available on high-end vehicles, technology has now spread to more affordable car categories, allowing customers of all income levels to benefit from AWD's improved handling and grip.

Furthermore, there is a vast selection of all-wheel-drive sedans available at a wide range of pricing ranges and performance levels for those who prefer conventional four-door sedans over SUVs or even hatchbacks. We've compiled a list of 10 of the most impressive all-wheel-drive cars now on the market.

Toyota Corolla Hybrid

Overview

In 2023, Toyota included all-wheel drive as an available feature on the Corolla. This small sedan is one of the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive automobiles on the market when equipped with the car's hybrid engine. All Corolla Hybrid models use a 1.8L four-cylinder gas engine, but the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version adds a second electric motor at the back axle to offer instant all-wheel drive when needed.

The vehicle has a continuously variable automatic transmission and generates 138 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. The Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver-aid technologies, an 8-inch touchscreen, auto-climate control, and LED lighting are all included as standard equipment. You can get more information about the vehicle on the Toyota Official Website.

Pros

• Superior fuel economy; more hybrid options available
• Upgraded basic safety measures and infotainment options
• Available AWD

Cons

• Minimal room for cargo

Overall Assessment

Toyota is expanding on the Corolla's well-known reliability by improving the car in new ways. It is increasing its commitment to hybrid vehicles by releasing four new hybrid trims, two of which come standard with all-wheel drive.

The hybrid system in the Corolla has been upgraded for better performance, and the standard engine in the Corolla LE, the model's most popular trim, has been upgraded for greater power and efficiency. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is an advanced safety system.

What’s more, the Corolla sedan is one of the most functional options available, with enough for five occupants. It is priced more than the hybrid Toyota Prius and lower than the midsize Toyota Camry. If you would like to purchase one, you can know more about the vehicle’s history using our Toyota VIN Decoder.

Tesla Model 3 Long-Range AWD

Overview

The Tesla Model 3 is a great option if you're looking for an efficient all-electric vehicle with four-wheel drive. The tiny luxury sedan Model 3 Long Range AWD features all-wheel drive and high-performance engines that provide 425 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque, allowing the car to reach 60 miles per hour on the highway in little over four seconds.

On the other hand, the battery claims to provide 576 kilometers of range on a single charge. The car's outstanding energy ratings are responsible in part for its impressive range: The Tesla Model 3 has a cargo area in the front of the vehicle in addition to the standard trunk in the back, as do many other electric vehicles. There are also heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, an automatic dimming rearview mirror, and wireless phone charging.

Pros

• Excellent choice for the driving range
• Modern technological features

Cons

• The cabins of the competition are more obviously luxurious and have higher standards of fit and finish
• Does not support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay

Overall Assessment

A perfect example of the progress made by EVs in recent years is Tesla's Model 3. When the first wave landed roughly a decade ago, electric vehicles were considered a novelty due to their limited range (the first Nissan Leaf only drove 73 miles between charges) and unusual appearance. The Model 3 is a prime example of how far electric vehicles have come in recent years. It shares the same sleek appearance, exceptional battery life, and cutting-edge technologies that have made Tesla vehicles so popular. The Model 3 is the most reasonably priced option in the brand's range of electric vehicles.

Subaru Impreza

Overview

The Subaru Impreza four-door is the best value among brand-new all-wheel-drive (AWD) sedans. In addition, it is the most reasonably priced all-wheel-drive automobile in the United States in 2023. The Impreza's lowest trim comes standard with a stick shift and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque.

The Impreza sedan's EPA city/highway fuel efficiency ratings in the United States are 23/31 mpg respectively when equipped with a manual gearbox. If you want heated seats, alloy wheels, fog lights, and a wiper de-icer on your 2023 Impreza sedan, you'll need to step it up to the Premium or the Touring package.

Pros

• Passing ratings in crash tests
• All-Wheel Drive is available
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Poor engine performance
• Poor fuel efficiency

Overall Assessment

The Subaru Impreza is unique among compact automobiles in that it comes as both a sedan and a hatchback, and can be had with either an automatic or manual gearbox. Although manual transmissions with all-wheel drive (AWD) are increasingly uncommon, the available continuously variable automatic gearbox (CVT) improves ride quality and fuel economy. Unfortunately, they are only powered by a weak 4-cylinder engine producing just 152 horsepower. As you'd expect from an underperforming engine, it also has poor fuel economy.

2023 Audi S3

Overview

The Audi S3's trunk is small. The agile handling and plush interior, though, are what ultimately convince you to buy them. There are three different Audi S3 trims available, and each one seats five people. The most well-liked trim level is the Premium Plus, which begins at $50,595 and has a 2.0-liter inline-four turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. This S3 gets an EPA-estimated 23 city MPG and 32 highway MPG.

Pros

• Dynamic And Agile Handling
• Luxurious Interior
• Rapid acceleration

Cons

• Reduced cargo capacity
• Competitors' vehicles have greater horsepower

Overall Assessment

The Audi S3 is a sportier and more powerful variant of the Audi A3 small sedan. It has a revised chassis and engine for improved handling and acceleration. The S3 is one of the most entertaining vehicles in its class to drive because of its responsive handling, rapid acceleration, and ability to whiz through turns. And the inside is classy, with modern touches and high-quality materials. If you're shopping for a compact premium car or used cars that yet offer plenty of perks in the way of luxury and performance, the S3 should be at the top of your list.

2023 Nissan Altima

Overview

The 2023 Nissan Altima has an appealing layout inside and an attractive, modern exterior. The Altima is one of the few midsize sedans available with all-wheel drive, however, it does not offer any hybrid variants.

However, the Altima is matched in other key areas by formidable competition. The Nissan Altima can seat up to 5 people and is offered in 4 distinct trim levels. The 2.5 SR AWD is the best-selling trim level, and it can be purchased for as little as $30,285. It features a 2.5L I4 engine and All Wheel Drive. This Altima has an EPA-estimated city fuel economy of 26 mpg and a highway fuel economy of 36 mpg.

Pros

• An all-wheel drive is an option.
• Low fuel consumption
• Midsize cars offer the best combination of value and reliability

Cons

• No hybrid vehicles
• Poor maneuverability and steering responsiveness

Overall Assessment

The Altima is one of the more reasonably priced options among midsize sedans, and it comes standard with all-wheel drive. Its comfy seats and smooth handling are highlights, although it lacks the legroom of many midsize sedans in the back row. When it comes to price and safety features, the Altima is unrivaled. Safety Shield 360, Nissan's highly regarded safety package, is now standard equipment.

Automatic braking, pedestrian recognition, and lane departure warning are just a few of the numerous features standard on this vehicle. However, when compared to the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord, two of the best-selling sedans in the United States, the Altima falls short in terms of overall refinement, performance, and power.

2023 Volvo S90 Recharge

Overview

When it comes to plug-in hybrid luxury sedans, Volvo's S90 Recharge is a top pick. The cabin is lavish, and with the 2023 upgrade, it can now outpace far more costly sports cars. There is just one trim level available for the 5-seat Volvo S90 Recharge. The Ultimate is the best-selling trim, and it has a starting price of $71,595. It is powered by a Plug-In Hybrid 2.0L I4 Turbo and has All Wheel Drive. The combined MPG for this S90 after recharge is projected to be 30.

Pros

• Greater overall range
• Superior interior design

Cons

• Stable ride
• Small trunk

Overall Assessment

When compared to rivals, the Volvo performs admirably. It can travel further than the others and consumes less energy and fuel per mile than the others. It lacks Porsche's sportiness but shares its potency and far lower price. The BMW has a cheaper starting price than the Volvo, but its range is shorter, its engine is weaker, and its cabin is smaller.

The S90 Recharge is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) designed for consumers who aren't ready to make the whole switch to electric vehicles but would still like to enjoy some of the advantages, such as better performance and economy, as well as the option to sometimes travel in near-silence while operating only on electric power.

2023 Mazda 3

Overview

The Mazda3 has a variety of efficient engines, great handling, and a stylish cabin. It's a stylish and athletic vehicle, but the price skyrockets for the higher trim levels. The Mazda3 is offered in 7 distinct trim levels and can seat up to five people. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus Sedan Automatic AWD with a 2.5L I4 Turbo engine and All Wheel Drive begins at $35,165 and is the most popular trim. The EPA has assessed the fuel economy for this Mazda3 to be 23 city/32 highway.

Pros

• Elegantly Furnished Interior
• Superb Control
• Offered As A Hatchback Or Sedan

Cons

• Poorly designed infotainment system
• Tight back seats

Overall Assessment

The Mazda Mazda3 is a fun-to-drive compact car due to its sharp handling, two potent engine options, and low price. You can have it as a sedan or a hatchback, and if you live somewhere that gets snow, you can get one with an all-wheel drive.

The Mazda3's luxurious interior and fun-to-drive character set it apart from other compacts; its top trims even approach the realm of luxury vehicles. The in-car entertainment system is well-rounded, although the rotary controller on the center console may take some getting used to for passengers. Ensure that you check the VIN number of the vehicle before buying.

2023 Acura TLX

Overview

While the all-wheel drive systems found in most luxury manufacturers are competent, Acura's SH-AWD (Super Handling AWD) system, found in the TLX mid-size sedan, is exceptional. SH-AWD not only improves performance in dry conditions but also provides four-wheel traction in inclement weather. Its rear axle can independently drive the left and right wheels, and can go faster than the front ones. SH-AWD utilizes these gimmicks to simulate four-wheel steering when cornering at high speeds.

Pros

• Excellent performance.
• Classy design
• The interior design is quite stylish.

Cons

• Confining back seats
• Difficult Infotainment UI

Overall Assessment

The Acura TLX is a luxurious sport sedan that costs less than its rivals while providing a high-end driving experience. The new Type S PMC trim adds a substantial amount of flair, and the all-wheel drive makes this a viable option year-round.

The Acura TLX can seat up to 5 people and is offered in 6 distinct trim levels. The SH-AWD with the A-Spec Package is the most well-liked trim level because of its 2.0-liter I4 Turbo engine and All Wheel Drive. The EPA has assessed the fuel economy for this TLX to be 21 city/29 highway.

2023 Mercedes‑Benz C‑Class

Overview

The all-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers drivers a luxurious ride and a host of amenities reminiscent of the luxurious S-Class. The C-Class, which was formerly Mercedes' "baby Benz," is now a full-fledged member of the brand's portfolio. There are three different Mercedes-Benz C-Class trims available. The AMG C 43 Sedan 4MATIC, with its 2.0L I4 S/C and Turbo engine and All Wheel Drive, is the most popular trim. It has a starting price of $61,050.

Pros

• Bold, high-quality external design
• Elegant interiors
• Mild hybrid powertrains boost fuel economy.

Cons

• No plug-in hybrid option is available.

Overall Assessment

The new 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a masterpiece of modern engineering and traditional European style among the new cars for sale. The tall hood and massive Mercedes-Benz grille and badge are highlighted by the "cab-backward" design. The three-pointed star in the center of the car's intimidating bumper is impossible to miss.

The sculpted hood is reminiscent of legendary Mercedes-Benz SLs from the 1950s. The new C-Class car is larger than its predecessor. When compared to a 2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan, the 2023 C-Class is somewhat shorter. The C-Class's increased dimensions allow it to provide spacious comfort for as many as five grownups.

2023 Lexus ES

Overview

If you're looking for a midsize luxury sedan with a refined cabin and a peaceful, relaxing ride, the Lexus ES is a great option. The ES isn't the most exciting car to drive, and it might not even get you noticed, but it provides an exceptionally relaxing and stress-free ownership experience.

There are a total of 12 different Lexus ES trims available for this 5-seater. The ES 250 F SPORT Design AWD with a 2.5L I4 engine and All Wheel Drive starts at $47,175, and it is the most popular trim level. This ES is predicted to achieve 25 city MPG and 34 highway MPG.

Pros

• AWD is an available option.
• Available hybrid variant with high fuel efficiency

Cons

• Some Rivals Have More Dynamic Steering.
• All-Wheel Drive, Only Offered With A Four-Cylinder Engine

Overall Assessment

The Lexus ES distinguishes out from the crowd of midsize luxury cars because of its peaceful cabin and relaxed driving experience. The inside is roomy and built with top-notch materials and craftsmanship. And in terms of reliability, the ES consistently ranks toward the top. It comes with two different types of standard engines and one hybrid option that gets excellent gas mileage.

Most have front-wheel drive, although an all-wheel-drive option is available for better grip in snow and ice. In 2023, Lexus also introduced a new and vastly improved driver interface. It is operated mostly through touch screens and has an efficient voice-activated interface. The update also includes wireless support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

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