The best AWD SUV cars you can buy
Are you looking for a spacious SUV with great stability, traction and off-road capabilities? Here are some of our top picks
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Best AWD SUV picks
The beauty of cars with an all-wheel-drive system is that the power of the engine reaches both the front and rear wheels at all times.
If, for example, one of your wheels is stuck in a muddy countryside lane and you’re struggling to get a grip on the road, the other wheels will keep moving. This will drive the car forward, getting you – safely – out of a tricky mess!
And if you need family-friendly space to accommodate your little passengers as you cruise off the beaten track, don’t worry! There are plenty of all-wheel-drive SUVs to keep everyone happy on the road.
We’ve put together a list of some of the best AWD SUVs to help you choose a car that floats your boat.
Toyota RAV4
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There’s no mistaking the style of a Toyota RAV4. It blends lines, curves and angles that are bound to make heads turn on the road.
As a spacious SUV, it’s a family-friendly car that takes you to your destination safely and with no fuss.
The Toyota RAV4 is also designed to have a light footprint thanks to its efficient powertrains.
This means that no matter what specific model you choose, it’ll always be frugal when it comes to fuel, limiting your need for pit stops at the petrol station.
It's one of the best AWD SUV picks for families and those who like chunky styling.
Honda CR-V
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Introduced almost 30 years ago, the Honda CR-V was one of the first all-wheel-drive SUVs on the market, and we'd say it’s aged very well!
Of course, its look has evolved a bit since then, as have some of its distinct features.
The modern Honda CR-V has increased in size, now has room for seven seats and comes with bundles of storage options, making it a great choice for adventurous road trips.
You’ll also benefit from all-around visibility at the wheel of this charming SUV, and with the help of its handy parking sensors, you can easily fit your faithful car into tighter spaces.
Mazda CX-5
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If you want to enjoy the best features and characteristics of an SUV without the size, the Mazda CX-5 will be right up your street.
This all-wheel-drive SUV has a confident, contemporary style and its most recent models exhibit a large front grille and slim LED headlights.
In terms of how it drives, the Mazda CX-5 allows you to cruise safely inside city centres and through uneven countryside roads without any bother.
The Mazda CX-5 has a long list of tech and on-board features too, so it’s no wonder that this all-wheel-drive SUV now accounts for about 25% of Mazda’s British sales.
Volkswagen Tiguan
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With an odd name that recalls tigers and iguanas, the VW Tiguan is sure to excite you. Spacious, solid, safe, fuel-efficient – what’s not to like?
This Volkswagen can handle long motorway stints and city life alike, and will pass tricky parking challenges with flying colours!
Its boot holds about 520 litres, giving you the chance to fit shopping bags and suitcases aplenty. If you fold down your rear seats, that increases to an impressive 1,650 litres.
Audi Q5
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Larger than the Audi Q3 and smaller than the Q7, the Audi Q5 is a mid-sized premium SUV that merges build quality and practicality.
In perfect Audi style, the Q5 is an impressive-looking car. It has a refined ruggedness about it, with a large radiator grille that oozes style and confidence.
Its reliable all-wheel-drive system means you’ll benefit from excellent grip in all sorts of weather conditions – even when steering around corners on a foggy, rainy day.
Another bonus is that regardless of whether you opt for the petrol or diesel model, you won’t complain about its fuel economy.
Equipped with a large fuel tank, you can expect to cover more than 500 miles before stopping at the pump.
BMW X3
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Looking for an AWD SUV that’s not too in-your-face? Well, the BMW X3 is a compact SUV characterised by a sleek, sophisticated silhouette.
Its impressive aesthetic carries on into the interior, with quality leathers and an excellent infotainment system.
Its many safety features and driver assistance tech make it a sensible family car, and with ample space at the rear, you can get your little ones in their car seats without tantrums or headaches.
Volvo XC60
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Looking for the best AQD SUV that's good-looking and spacious? You're sure to be impressed by the handsome Volvo XC60.
Embracing a sporty vibe that’s not too showy, you won’t go unnoticed as you cruise into the horizon – and what a pleasure it is to drive too!
The Volvo XC60 has an impressive turning cycle, working a 360-degree manoeuvre in just over 11 metres, so if you need to perform a U-turn, you can do so in a safe fashion.
When it comes to storage space, it has many options. The XC60 comes with large door bins, a spacious driver’s compartment, drink holders and a 560-litre boot.
So, if you’re off on a road trip, you won’t need to cherry-pick what to bring on your journey!
Range Rover Evoque
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Let’s be honest: the Range Rover Evoque is a thing of beauty. Since its debut on the market, it hasn’t changed an awful lot – but if it ain’t broke, don't fix it.
With quick steering, firm grip and on-the-mark responses, this all-wheel-drive SUV is a joy to control.
There are plenty of storage areas throughout the spacious cabin and ample head- and legroom.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Range Rover Evoque will match your expectations too. The D180 diesel, in particular, does a pretty good job at cruising with limited fuel stops on the way – it can average a decent 41.5mpg.
Ford Edge
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Originally designed for the US market, the Ford Edge crossed the Atlantic in 2016 – and we’re glad it did!
With a huge boot that can carry about four large suitcases, it’s the perfect vehicle for those family road trips.
It also has plenty of room for passengers to stretch their legs and enjoy the ride in comfort and style too!
The Ford Edge offers great handling and control for the driver, making it the best AWD SUV for long motorway journeys.
Kia Sportage
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Last but not least, the Kia Sportage is the best-selling Kia model in the UK – so what makes it so special?
This AWD SUV has a youthful and dominating look, balancing sleek lines with muscular, rugged angles.
It also comes with innovative infotainment to make your driving experience that extra bit special, because it’s probably one of the most intuitive and driver-friendly systems on the market.
And considering its affordable price tag, we can say with confidence that you’ll struggle to find a better city and motorway cruiser.