Top 5 All-Wheel-Drive Crossover Vehicles

With increasing demand for better fuel efficiency, more comfortable rides, and superior handling from their SUVs, the crossover segment has been on the rise. Crossovers are typically built on car-based chassis rather than truck-based ones, offering features like optional third-row seating and often an all-wheel-drive version.

Crossovers offer a winning combination of style, comfort, power, and practicality. Smaller than traditional truck-based SUVs, they often provide better fuel economy, though some are pushing the limits. Their all-wheel-drive features give drivers access to off-road adventures that a regular car can’t handle, all while keeping the convenience and comfort associated with car ownership.

All-wheel-drive performance can vary significantly between different crossovers, along with their pricing, size, towing capacity, and cargo space. We’ve compiled a list of five crossovers that span nearly every category, from price to off-road capability. Some models are luxurious and expensive, while others are more practical and rugged. Whether you're after speed, power, or survivalist features, we’ve got the right crossover for you.

While there are numerous AWD crossovers to choose from, these five represent a diverse range within the AWD crossover market, showcasing how varied each can be.

5: Subaru Outback

Some car brands are synonymous with certain characteristics, and Subaru is known for its adventurous, almost rebellious spirit. Their vehicles embody this persona, partly thanks to their standard all-wheel-drive system across all models, and the Outback is no exception.

The Outback received a redesign in 2010, making it one of the largest, tallest, and most spacious models ever built by Subaru. With enhanced ground clearance and over 71 cubic feet of cargo space, it’s perfect for off-road adventures and can carry more gear than many of its competitors in the crossover class. It also won Motor Trend's 2010 SUV of the Year award.

The Outback offers six trim levels, providing a wide array of options. While the choices may seem overwhelming, the variety in packages allows the base price to start at about $23,000 and reach up to $35,000 for premium features. Buyers can choose between a 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine or a -liter flat-six. The four-cylinder engine delivers plenty of power, especially considering the Outback's lighter weight compared to other crossovers. The turbocharged version, however, has been discontinued, a change that may disappoint some loyal Subaru enthusiasts.

Not only does the Outback offer ample cargo space and a lighter build than many competitors, but it also provides excellent fuel efficiency [Source: Car Connection]. The 2.4-liter engine with an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) achieves about 22 city and 29 highway miles per gallon (9.4 and 12.3 kilometers per liter). The -liter engine provides approximately 18 city and 25 highway miles per gallon (7.7 and 10.6 kilometers per liter) [Source: Edmunds].

Unlike some other crossovers, the Outback doesn't come with a third-row seat, so it may not be ideal if you need to transport a large number of passengers. However, it does offer a solid four-star crash-test safety rating for both front and side impact tests.

The Outback offers several upgrades, such as a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot for your laptop or a 440-watt Harmon-Kardon sound system. Alternatively, you can enjoy the standard features, including stability and traction control, which are especially useful when testing the capabilities of the AWD system.

While the Outback stands out as a top AWD crossover, there are other worthy contenders on our list that deserve attention. Continue to the next page to explore another top AWD crossover.

4: Jeep Compass

For those prioritizing AWD in their crossover, the newly redesigned Jeep Compass is worth a closer look. With its AWD and available off-road packages, it leaves other crossovers behind as it powers through rugged landscapes.

The Compass underwent a significant update for 2011, shedding its previous unappealing styling. The latest version now resembles a compact version of the Grand Cherokee, a design choice that Jeep proudly touts. The interior remains largely unchanged from earlier models, and as a budget-friendly Jeep, you shouldn't expect the same premium features found in higher-end crossovers.

Where the Compass truly stands out is with its optional Trail Rated off-road package. The Trail Rated designation is reserved for Jeep vehicles that meet the brand's rigorous off-road standards. These Jeeps must meet specific approach and departure angles and offer ample ground clearance. These angles refer to the vehicle's clearance at the front and rear when navigating over obstacles—if the angles are too short, the vehicle may scrape or fail to climb obstacles altogether.

For those skeptical about a Trail Rated badge from the very people who built the vehicle, the Compass offers impressive features like 8.4 inches of ground clearance, skid plates, tow hooks, and a CVT engine that includes a low-range option for off-roading. The redesigned Compass also boasts an upgraded AWD system, the Freedom Drive II. The Trail Rated version further enhances its off-road prowess with features like hill descent traction and brake traction control.

The Jeep Compass starts at just over $19,000, and with the AWD Trail Rated version, the price climbs closer to $25,000 [source: Jeep]. While it may be one of the most capable off-roading AWD crossovers, don't expect it to last forever. Due to Fiat's partial ownership of Chrysler, the Compass is set to be discontinued around 2012 or 2013 in favor of a Fiat-based model. Still, if you're after an AWD system that excels in muddy terrain, this is the crossover for you.

Next, we'll explore another AWD crossover, one with a bit more character than the Compass.

3: Nissan Juke

The Nissan Juke is a compact crossover that stands out on its own. Think of it as the rebellious younger sibling of the Rogue and Murano, eager to carve its own path. Its quirky design might alienate some buyers, but its sporty nature and unique character offer a refreshing change in the crowded crossover market.

The Juke comes with a single engine option: a 1.6-liter turbocharged direct injection four-cylinder, delivering 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque to the all-wheel-drive system, which powers a 3,200-pound (1,451-kilogram) vehicle [source: Nissan]. The AWD version is paired exclusively with a continuously variable automatic transmission, so those craving a manual gearbox will have to forgo all-wheel-drive.

The lack of a manual transmission doesn't completely limit your performance options; Nissan offers three distinct driving modes: Normal, Sport, and Eco. Each mode adjusts throttle sensitivity, steering feel, and transmission shifting to match your desired driving experience.

While the AWD system isn't built for extreme rock crawling, it does boast impressive features. The Juke is equipped with a torque vectoring system that distributes torque between the front and rear wheels to ensure optimal power delivery to each wheel. For instance, when starting on a slippery incline, each wheel can receive 25% of the torque, but during a sharp turn, the system can reallocate torque between the wheels that need it most, leaving one wheel with no torque if necessary.

The torque distribution is determined by factors like vehicle speed, lateral G-force, wheel speed, gear position, and yaw rate. Yaw refers to a vehicle’s rotation around its vertical axis, often experienced during side skidding. The Juke is the first compact crossover to incorporate torque vectoring, and Nissan claims it has the lightest torque vectoring system in the world.

The Juke starts at $19,500 and can be upgraded with additional features, bringing the price to around $23,000. Not only does Nissan's compact crossover offer an advanced AWD system, but it also boasts the highest crash test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in all four categories [source: Nissan].

Continue to the next page to discover the details of our next AWD crossover, the 2011 SUV of the Year.

2: Porsche Cayenne

Porsche entered the crossover market with the Cayenne in 2003, and their 2011 redesign won Motor Trend's SUV of the Year award. This victory was significant, as many had doubted whether a Porsche SUV could be successful. The Cayenne stands as one of the most luxurious AWD crossovers available. The base MSRP starts at $48,000, and with all top-tier options, the price can skyrocket to $170,000 [source: Markus].

The Cayenne offers four engine options, including a 3.6-liter V-6 that generates 300 horsepower and a 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 hybrid that delivers 380 horsepower with a fuel efficiency of 20 mpg (8.5 km/l) in the city and 24 mpg (10.2 km/l) on the highway [source: Porsche]. The most powerful option is the 4.8-liter twin-turbocharged V-8, which produces a whopping 500 horsepower, an additional 100 horsepower over the standard 4.8-liter V-8. The turbocharged version rockets this AWD crossover from 0 to 60 mph (96.6 km/h) in just 4.4 seconds [source: Porsche].

In terms of all-wheel drive, the Cayenne features a torque vectoring system that directs power to the wheels that need it most. By default, 60% of the engine's power is directed to the rear wheels, and 40% to the front. The off-road mode adjusts the vehicle’s transmission, traction, and chassis, while optional air springs can raise the ground clearance to 8.5 inches [source: Markus]. The previous generation included a dual-range transfer case for tougher off-road conditions, but it was removed in the 2011 redesign, reducing weight by around 400 pounds (181.4 kg) [source: Edmunds].

While the Cayenne is certainly capable of off-road driving, it may be better suited to well-maintained roads. Think of it like using an expensive vase as a doorstop—while it can function in that way, it might not be the best choice. For those seeking a blend of luxury, speed, and versatility, however, the Cayenne offers one of the finest combinations in an AWD crossover.

Flip to the next page to explore our final AWD crossover.

1: Mazda CX-9

The Mazda CX-9 is a full-size crossover offering ample space for up to seven passengers, a solid powertrain, and generous cargo capacity. While all-wheel drive isn't standard, the CX-9 comes well-equipped for its starting price of around $29,000.

Having earned multiple accolades for its overall performance and driving experience, the Mazda CX-9 is a popular choice. The sole engine option is a 3.7-liter V-6 producing 273 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, allowing the CX-9 to reach 60 mph (96.6 km/h) in approximately 7.3 seconds [source: Lago]. There are three trims to choose from: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring, with the Grand Touring being just $4,000 more than the base Sport model.

The available all-wheel-drive system features a torque-splitting mechanism, similar to other crossovers, and with 8 inches of ground clearance, the CX-9 is capable of light off-roading. For towing, the AWD configuration can handle up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kilograms), and an optional towing package adds a heavy-duty transmission cooler, radiator fan, and modified engine control module [source: Mazda].

With the second row of seats upright, the CX-9 offers just over 48 cubic feet of cargo space, but fold the seats down, and it expands to more than 100 cubic feet [source: Lago]. Reviewers have praised its responsive steering and handling, though fuel economy is only 16 mpg (6.8 km/l) in the city and 22 mpg (9.4 km/l) on the highway with the AWD version [source: Mazda]. Additionally, the CX-9 boasts a 5-star government crash test rating for front and side impacts.

If you're in search of an enjoyable-to-drive AWD crossover that offers a wealth of features at a reasonable price, the Mazda CX-9 might be exactly what you're after.