All-wheel drive can add a ton of versatility to a vehicles, and if you often have to deal with wet, snowy, or muddy roads, you’ll know how invaluable it can be. While automakers can sometimes treat this feature as a luxury, you can still find affordable crossovers that offer power to all four wheels.
The traction that all-wheel drive offers can be invaluable in environments where the ground is slippery. While you often have to pay a little bit extra for this feature, you don’t have to stretch your budget too far if you’re clever. There are plenty of cheap subcompact and compact crossovers that offer all-wheel drive.
Looking at all the new options available in 2025, we’ve found the ten crossovers that offer all-wheel drive at the most affordable price. We’ve listed the models below by their MSRP, including the additional cost of all-wheel drive. We also dive into what kind of powertrain they offer and what else sets them apart from their competition.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including TopSpeed and the EPA. Models are ranked based on their MSRP, from most expensive to most affordable.

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10
2025 Mazda CX-5
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive: $28,770
This vehicle is the biggest on this list, competing in the compact SUV segment where the others are subcompacts. Mazda has kept the CX-5 alive much longer than most would have thought, especially because they introduced the CX-50. The CX-5 comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is only one of the many ways it offers value, and among the reasons why it is still a best-seller for the brand.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
2.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four |
Transmission |
6-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower |
187 HP |
Torque |
186 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
24 MPG City / 30 MPG Highway |
If affordability is what you’re after, then the base engine is the one you’re going to want to go for. The brand does offer a model fitted with a turbocharger, delivering quite a bit more power. Either way, the CX-5 is plenty versatile and super rewarding to drive.
Pros
- Near-luxury interior
- Outstanding curb appeal
- A ton of fun to drive
Cons
- Less passenger room than average
- Cramped cargo area
- Can only tow 2,000 pounds
9
2025 Honda HR-V
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive: $26,900
Front 3/4 shot of a 2023 Honda HR-V
Honda’s subcompact HR-V aims to deliver the same level of comfort and practicality that you’d find in the more popular CR-V, but in a slightly smaller, more affordable package. The HR-V has a starting MSRP of $25,400 for the entry-level LX trim. All models can be optioned with all-wheel drive for an additional $1,500.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
2.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four |
Transmission |
CVT |
Horsepower |
158 HP |
Torque |
138 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
25 MPG City / 30 MPG Highway |
The Honda HR-V only comes fitted with a single engine option, but it does a good enough job of getting you from point A to point B. Its chassis tuning is worthy of a more powerful engine, though, and we hope that one day they’ll fit a turbocharger in there, or a hybrid unit to increase fuel savings.
Pros
- Roomy interior
- Ride is more comfortable than you’d expect
- Pretty athletic chassis tuning
Cons
- Base trim is a bit spartan
- Engine needs more power
- No hybrid
8
2025 Volkswagen Taos
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive: $26,695
The Taos is the smallest crossover in the Volkswagen family, with unique styling and unwavering practicality, as is expected from a Volkswagen. The Taos has been updated for the 2025 model year, with refreshed styling and a more powerful engine. The base S model starts at $24,995, with all-wheel drive available on all models at an extra cost of $1,700.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
1.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four |
Transmission |
8-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower |
174 HP |
Torque |
184 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
25 MPG City / 33 MPG City |
Every 2025 model comes with an updated turbocharged four-cylinder engine, putting down more power than before. All-wheel drive models also come with a more advanced multi-link suspension, where front-wheel drive models make use of a torsion beam setup.
Pros
- More room inside than you’d think
- Exceptional cargo space
- Pretty impressive driving dynamics
Cons
- Could be quicker
- Pricing is too close to the Tiguan
- Love it or hate it front fascia

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7
2025 Hyundai Kona
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive: $26,050
The Kona entered its second generation for the 2024 model year, with Hyundai completely overhauling their small crossover. It continues to be a unique and compelling option in the subcompact segment. While it doesn’t come standard with all-wheel drive, all models can add the feature for an additional $1,500. The base model otherwise has a starting MSRP of $24,550.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
2.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four |
Transmission |
CVT |
Horsepower |
147 HP |
Torque |
132 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
27 MPG City / 29 MPG Highway |
Hyundai prioritizes comfort and value for the average urban buyer, meaning that the base Kona comes with a fairly underpowered four-cylinder. There is a 190 horsepower turbocharged option available though. Either way, the Kona’s ride will impress, and so will its ability to keep noise out of the cabin.
Pros
- Unique exterior styling
- Well thought out interior
- Great list of standard features
Cons
- Base engine is too weak
- Second row legroom is below average
- The headlights are controversially styled
6
2025 Subaru Crosstrek
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive: $25,810
Subaru’s Crosstrek is an interesting option at this price point. As is typical of Subaru, the Crosstrek is designed to go further off the beaten track than most of its competitors. It is also incredibly practical, with dimensions that make it feel like a mini station wagon. Subaru is known for including all-wheel drive as standard equipment on their vehicles, and the Crosstrek is no exception.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
2.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated Flat-Four |
Transmission |
CVT |
Horsepower |
152 HP |
Torque |
145 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
27 MPG City / 34 MPG Highway |
While the Crosstrek may be adventure-ready, it doesn’t have the most powerful base engine, and the CVT will certainly deter some. A more powerful 2.5-liter engine is available on higher trims, along with a CVT that does its best impression of a traditional eight-speed automatic.
Pros
- Genuine off-road capability
- Extremely comfortable seats
- Above average fuel efficiency
Cons
- Boring driving dynamics
- Dull interior design
- Below average acceleration
5
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive
The Corolla Cross often flies under the radar in the U.S. market. While it has the appeal of the Toyota badge and a good suite of standard equipment, it feels like most of its competitors offer better value for money in a more exciting package. The base L model starts at a pretty palatable $24,135, with all-wheel drive being an optional extra that costs $1,300.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
2.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four |
Transmission |
CVT |
Horsepower |
169 HP |
Torque |
150 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
29 MPG City / 31 MPG Highway |
There is nothing particularly special about the Corolla Cross’ performance, but nothing that stands out as a massive negative either. It should deliver enough power for most buyers, but it is mostly unengaging to drive. Ride quality is decent, so those looking for comfort will be satisfied.
Pros
- Lots of cargo room
- Tons of standard safety features
- Competitive price
Cons
- Engine can get loud under load
- Tepid acceleration
- Forgettable driving dynamics

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4
2025 Mazda CX-30
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive: $25,195
Front 3/4 shot of a 2020 Mazda CX-30
Mazda has been looking to move slowly but surely upmarket. The CX-30 was the beginning of this crusade, and we feel that the Japanese brand has been pretty successful thus far. It is stylish, loaded with class, and a blast to drive. Mazda’s lineup of crossovers and SUVs all come equipped with all-wheel drive as a standard feature.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
2.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four |
Transmission |
6-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower |
191 HP |
Torque |
186 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
26 MPG City / 33 MPG Highway |
While the naturally aspirated four-cylinder may feel a little under-powered in some of the bigger Mazda crossovers, it motivates the CX-30 along at a pretty acceptable rate. Its handling is the star of the show though, offering a rewarding experience that is hard to come by at this price point.
Pros
- Nicer interior than its rivals
- Handles like a dream
- Long standard feature list
Cons
- Cramped rear seats
- Below average cargo capacity
- Fairly firm ride
3
2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive: $25,000
Chevrolet has already started moving some of its lineup to the 2026 model year, including the Trailblazer. Having seen a major refresh for the 2024 model year, the Trailblazer moves forward with very few changes beyond some additional paint options. The base MSRP of the Trailblazer is $23,000, with all-wheel drive available across the board.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
1.3-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Three |
Transmission |
CVT |
Horsepower |
155 HP |
Torque |
174 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
26 MPG City / 29 MPG Highway |
The Trailblazer comes with two different choices when it comes to powertrains. The base model with front-wheel drive comes with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder instead. Every model equipped with all-wheel drive gets the slightly larger 1.3-liter unit instead. This upgrade is well worth the money.
Pros
- Spacious interior
- User-friendly infotainment system
- High ceiling for comfort
Cons
- Both engines are weak
- Handling is below par
- Its ride needs softening
2
2025 Kia Seltos
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive: $24,690
Front 3/4 shot of a 2024 Kia Seltos
Kia has managed to make itself a strong competitor in the crossover market by offering a great list of standard equipment on all of its vehicles. The Seltos continues this trend, with excellent styling, inside and out, and enjoyable driving dynamics. All-wheel drive isn’t standard on every model, with it costing extra on the S and EX trims, but it is standard on the most affordable LX trim.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
2.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four |
Transmission |
CVT |
Horsepower |
146 HP |
Torque |
132 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
27 MPG City / 31 MPG Highway |
While the 195-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is certainly alluring, the base engine will offer enough power for most buyers. While it doesn’t accelerate particularly quickly, the Seltos features better handling than you’d expect as well as good steering feedback.
Pros
- Feels nice to drive
- Interior is incredibly spacious
- Unbeatable Kia warranty
Cons
- Base engine is a little underpowered
- Some rivals offer more fun
- Some models don’t feature standard all-wheel drive

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1
2025 Nissan Kicks
MSRP With All-Wheel Drive: $23,330
Front 3/4 shot of a 2025 Nissan Kicks
The Kicks is all-new for the 2025 model year, with Nissan bolstering their most affordable crossover with a better engine and a more modern interior. It has also changed on the outside, from new styling elements to the suspension being raised. At this price point, it is impressive that all-wheel drive is even an option, with it costing an additional $1,500 on the base model.
Performance Specifications
Engine |
2.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four |
Transmission |
CVT |
Horsepower |
141 HP |
Torque |
140 LB-FT |
Fuel Efficiency |
27 MPG City / 34 MPG Highway |
For the first time, Nissan now offers the Kicks with all-wheel drive, making it more versatile than ever. Gone is the underpowered 1.6-liter four-cylinder, and in its place is a two-liter unit that offers 20 more horsepower and an additional 26 pound-feet of torque. Its new engine doesn’t make it a race car, but it is much more competitive in its class now.
Pros
- Looks great
- Tons of standard features
- More economical than a lot of its rivals
Cons
- Screen placement is odd
- Too much reliance on touch controls
- Still not the quickest