The Most Reliable AWD Sedan, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the sedan you think is the most reliable!

Updated on May 3, 2024 06:54

In regions where snow, rain, and varied terrain are part of daily driving, having a reliable all-wheel-drive sedan can make a significant difference in safety and comfort. Knowing which models stand up to the challenges of harsh weather and rugged conditions can save consumers time, money, and stress. This list provides a curated assessment of AWD sedans that have proven their worth in durability and performance. By participating in the ranking, you contribute to a comprehensive guide tailored by actual user experiences and preferences. Your votes help others make informed decisions when selecting a vehicle that best suits their needs in challenging driving conditions. Check out the list, cast your votes, and see how your favorite AWD sedan compares to others in its class in real-time.

What Is the Most Reliable AWD Sedan?

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31
votes
M 93 · CC BY-SA 3.0 de

Subaru Legacy

Subaru Corporation

The Legacy has been one of the most reliable AWD sedans on the market for years with its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. It also comes with advanced safety features and a spacious interior.
The Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan designed for comfortable commuting. It offers a combination of comfort, safety, and durability, making it an ideal choice for daily travels. With its spacious interior and advanced features, the Legacy ensures a smooth and enjoyable ride for both the driver and passengers.

Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder / 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder

Transmission: Lineartronic CVT

Fuel Efficiency: up to 35 MPG highway

All-Wheel Drive System: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
Subaru Legacy in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most comfortable Subaru
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33
votes
Vauxford · CC BY-SA 4.0

Audi A4

Audi AG

The A4 is known for its Quattro all-wheel drive system, which provides excellent traction and handling in all weather conditions. It also features a luxurious interior and advanced technology.
The Audi A4 is a luxury compact executive car that has gained a reputation for its reliability, performance, and comfortable driving experience. It offers a well-crafted interior, advanced technology features, and a wide range of engine options.

Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds

Seating Capacity: Up to 5 passengers

Engine Options: Petrol, Diesel, and Hybrid

Power Output: Up to 444 horsepower

Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7/8-speed automatic
Audi A4 in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most reliable all-wheel-drive car
- Position 6 of 10 in Most reliable luxury car to buy when used
- Position 7 of 10 in Most reliable European cars of all time
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular car in Singapore
- Position 8 of 10 in Most comfortable Audi
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33
votes
Jeroen Coebergh · CC0

BMW 3-Series

BMW

The 3-Series offers a dynamic driving experience with its xDrive all-wheel drive system. It also has a high-quality interior and a range of powerful engines to choose from.
The BMW 3-Series is a luxury AWD sedan known for its powerful performance, precise handling, and upscale features. Renowned for its sporty driving dynamics, it offers a comfortable ride and a well-appointed interior.

Engine Options: Multiple engine options available, including 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines

Power Output: Ranges from 255 horsepower to 503 horsepower

Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission

Acceleration: 0-60 mph in as low as 4.0 seconds

Fuel Efficiency: Up to 26 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway
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20
votes
Alexander Migl · CC BY-SA 4.0

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz

The C-Class has 4MATIC all-wheel drive, which provides excellent grip on any road surface. It also has a refined interior and a range of advanced features.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a luxury compact executive car known for its elegance and high-quality craftsmanship. It offers a blend of style, performance, and advanced technology.

Model: C-Class

Body Style: Sedan

Engine Options: Various petrol and diesel engines

Transmission: 9-speed automatic

Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive / All-wheel drive
Mercedes-Benz C-Class in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Mercedes car
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular car in Singapore
- Position 6 of 10 in Most reliable automatic cars in the UK
- Position 7 of 10 in Most reliable sport sedan
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7
votes
Jakub "Flyz1" Maciejewski · CC BY-SA 4.0

Volvo S90

Volvo

The S90 has a sophisticated AWD system that provides excellent stability and traction. It also has a spacious cabin, comfortable ride, and advanced safety features.
The Volvo S90 is a luxury car that combines elegant design, advanced safety features, and comfortable Scandinavian craftsmanship. It offers a spacious and refined interior, along with impressive performance and technology.

Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged or supercharged engine

Power output: 250 to 400 horsepower

Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Drive type: Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive

Fuel efficiency: Up to 31 MPG highway
Volvo S90 in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most reliable premium cars
- Position 7 of 10 in Most popular Volvo model
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13
votes
Alexander Migl · CC BY-SA 4.0

Lexus IS

Lexus

The IS has an AWD system that delivers excellent performance and handling. It also has a high-quality interior and a range of advanced features.
The Lexus IS is a luxury all-wheel drive (AWD) sedan known for its reliability, performance, and stylish design. It is produced by Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota. The Lexus IS offers a smooth and comfortable ride, coupled with the latest technology features and safety enhancements.

Engine: Various engine options, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6

Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission

Power Output: Ranges from 241 to 311 horsepower, depending on the engine choice

Fuel Efficiency: Varies by engine, but generally offers good fuel efficiency for a luxury sedan

AWD System: Lexus AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability on various road conditions
Lexus IS in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most reliable sport sedan
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2
votes
Mr.choppers · CC BY-SA 3.0

Acura TLX

Acura (Honda)

The TLX comes with Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability. It also has a comfortable ride and a range of advanced features.
The Acura TLX is a luxury mid-size sedan that offers a blend of style, performance, and technology. It is known for its elegant design, comfortable interior, and advanced features.

Engine: 2.4L inline-4 or 3.5L V6

Power: 206 to 290 horsepower

Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch or 9-speed automatic

Fuel Efficiency: Up to 23 city / 33 highway MPG

Drive Type: Front-wheel drive or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Acura TLX in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular Acura
- Position 8 of 10 in Most reliable sport sedan
- Position 9 of 10 in Most reliable foreign car
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6
votes
M 93 · CC BY-SA 3.0 de

Infiniti Q50

The Q50 has an AWD system that provides excellent handling and stability. It also has a stylish exterior, a luxurious interior, and a range of advanced features.
The Infiniti Q50 is a luxury all-wheel-drive (AWD) sedan that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and technology. It is designed to provide a refined driving experience with ample power and precise handling.

Engine: 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo

Horsepower: 300-400 hp

Torque: 295-350 lb-ft

Transmission: 7-speed automatic

Fuel Efficiency: City: 19-23 mpg / Highway: 26-30 mpg
Infiniti Q50 in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most reliable Infiniti
- Position 4 of 10 in Most reliable luxury car to buy when used
- Position 9 of 10 in Most reliable sport sedan
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2
votes
TastyPoutine · CC BY-SA 4.0

Cadillac CT5

General Motors

The CT5 has an AWD system that delivers excellent handling and stability. It also has a spacious cabin, a comfortable ride, and a range of advanced features.
The Cadillac CT5 is a luxurious midsize sedan that offers exceptional comfort and advanced features. It boasts a sleek and elegant design, combining modern styling with timeless Cadillac cues. The CT5 is renowned for its spacious and meticulously-crafted interior, providing a serene and luxurious environment for both the driver and passengers.

Engine: Multiple engine options, including a 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged engine and a 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 engine

Transmission: 10-speed automatic transmission

Seating Capacity: 5 passengers

Interior Features: Premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, advanced driver assistance features, and a digital instrument cluster

Technology: Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system with a touchscreen display, wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration
Cadillac CT5 in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most comfortable Cadillac
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4
votes
Damian B Oh · CC BY-SA 4.0

Genesis G70

Genesis Motors

The G70 offers a dynamic driving experience with its AWD system. It also has a high-quality interior, a range of advanced features, and a strong warranty.
The Genesis G70 is a luxury sedan renowned for its reliable all-wheel drive (AWD) system and exceptional performance. It is a compact executive car that combines elegance, power, and advanced technology to deliver an outstanding driving experience. The G70 offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and agility, making it a top choice among enthusiasts.

Engine Options: 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 / 3.3L Twin-Turbo V6

Power Output: 252-365 horsepower

Transmission: 8-speed automatic / 6-speed manual

All-Wheel Drive System: Available

Acceleration (0-60 mph): 4.5 - 6.0 seconds
Genesis G70 in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most reliable Genesis car

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Ranking factors for reliable sedan

Reliability ratings

Look for sedans that have high reliability ratings from reputable sources like J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, and Edmunds.
Safety ratings

The sedan should have excellent safety ratings from institutions like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).
Fuel efficiency

Look for AWD sedans that provide good fuel efficiency, especially if you plan to drive them daily.
Driving performance

The car should have a good driving performance, including responsive handling, smooth acceleration, and comfortable ride.
Features and technology

Check for available features and technology, like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Price

Ensure the sedan falls within your budget.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most reliable AWD sedan. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or sedan is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

3873 views
148 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each sedan once every 24 hours. The rank of each sedan is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most reliable awd sedan

When it comes to all-wheel drive sedans, there are a variety of factors to consider. AWD sedans are known for their ability to handle tough driving conditions, such as snow, rain, and rough terrain. However, not all AWD sedans are created equal. Some models may have better traction control, while others may offer superior handling and performance. It is important to take into account factors such as safety, reliability, and fuel efficiency when searching for the most reliable AWD sedan. By doing your research and considering all of the options, you can find the perfect AWD sedan that fits your needs and budget.