If you’re shopping for a used all-wheel drive (AWD) car on a $20,000 budget, we’ve found a treasure trove of traction, with wagons, SUVs, and even sporty coupes available. After rifling through the tens of thousands of Autotrader listings, we’ve compiled this list of some of the best models you’ll find on the used car market today at a sub-$20,000 price point.
As always, when buying a used car, be sure to get a thorough inspection to ensure the car you’re buying is the one you think you’re buying. Here are 10 of the best used all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles on a $20,000 budget.
1. 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is definitely a step beyond the norm, with style and sportiness you don’t find in the mainstream. Despite its luxury branding and equipment, the Stelvio is now considerably more affordable, with the midrange Ti Sport model the best fit for our budget. With 280 horsepower, standard AWD, 20-inch wheels, premium leather, and 12-way power-adjustable sport seats, this Italian sports SUV will have you smiling all the way to work. See 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio models for sale
2. 2014 Audi TT
If you like sporty cars but would rather have a compact coupe than an SUV, the 2014 Audi TT might be a great fit. The TTS trim hits our budget sweet spot and comes with standard quattro AWD and a punchy 265-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The extra power gives the TTS plenty of oomph, while the AWD keeps it practical as a year-round commuter — not least to thank is the 31-mpg highway rating. Audiophile Tip: A 12-speaker Bose audio system is standard in the TT. If you have trouble finding an example in your price range, look at 2013 models. See 2014 Audi TT models for sale
3. 2016 Dodge Durango
Stylish and sleek in a way that larger SUVs rarely are, the 2016 Dodge Durango is also a practical, capable vehicle. Slotting between the full-size truck-based SUVs and the midsize crossovers, the Durango packs a 293-hp V6 in our preferred Citadel trim, along with available AWD, 3-zone automatic climate control, and seating for seven. See 2016 Dodge Durango models for sale
4. 2018 Ford Edge
Roomy and comfortable for a 5-passenger SUV, the 2018 Ford Edge can also be configured to be rather sporty. It has a 245-hp 4-cylinder as standard equipment and an available 280-hp 3.5-liter V6. These should both be attainable on our $20,000 budget. For maximum value, look for SEL or Titanium models with features like leather, advanced safety features, and, of course, AWD. See 2018 Ford Edge models for sale
5. 2017 Honda CR-V
An all-arounder that’s been a hit with Americans and their families for decades now, the 2017 Honda CR-V is a great example of one of the most popular crossovers ever built. With ample interior space, a comfortable ride, solid fuel economy, and the leather-equipped EX-L within reach of our budget, the CR-V is an easy choice for most folks. See 2017 Honda CR-V models for sale
6. 2018 Kia Sorento
With many of the same strengths as the CR-V in a differently styled package — and one capable of seating up to seven — the 2018 Kia Sorento offers its take on flexible family transportation. The midrange EX is likely the best fit for our money, with features like smartphone integration, leather seating, keyless entry, and more. Expert Tip: Three-row models come with an upgraded 290-hp V6, the most powerful engine offered in the 2018 Sorento. See 2018 Kia Sorento models for sale
7. 2017 Mazda CX-9
Combining the sporty and family themes into one vehicle, the 2017 Mazda CX-9 seats seven people and is still engaging and fun to drive. Better still, it’s comfortable, practical, and relatively efficient. On our $20,000 budget, even the top-spec Signature models are available, with standard AWD, Nappa leather trim, rosewood accents, and LED accent lighting, among other niceties. See 2017 Mazda CX-9 models for sale
8. 2020 Nissan Rogue
If you’d prefer a newer vehicle, the 2020 Nissan Rogue is the latest option on this list. It comes with some of the most current technology in terms of safety features and entertainment. All-wheel drive isn’t standard, but it and the midrange SV trim both fit comfortably into our budget. The Rogue is also one of the most efficient options on our list at up to 32 mpg on the highway with AWD. See 2020 Nissan Rogue models for sale
9. 2018 Subaru Forester
The 2018 Subaru Forester’s boxy exterior makes for lots of interior space. Its combination of standard AWD and high ground clearance makes it an excellent choice for those with a taste for adventure or snowy winters. All Forester models get AWD, but our budget will give you the choice between the loaded 2.5i Touring or the sporty 2.0XT Premium trims. Opt for the Touring; you’ll get leather seating, advanced safety features, and a power tailgate. Choose the Premium, and you get an 80-hp jump to 250 from an upgraded engine. Alternate suggestion: If you prefer a sedan ready for winter driving, look for a 2018 Subaru Legacy. See 2018 Subaru Forester models for sale
10. 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
All-wheel-drive station wagons typically make you think of Subaru — or perhaps Volvo — but the 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack deserves to be top-of-mind as well, especially when you take value into account. The top-spec TSI SEL is a good fit on our budget, with 18-inch wheels, a 12-way power driver’s seat, and more. Expert Tip: Look for models with the optional Driver Assistance Package to get advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. See 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack models for sale
10 Best Used All-Wheel-Drive Cars on a $20,000 Budget
- 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
- 2014 Audi TT
- 2016 Dodge Durango
- 2018 Ford Edge
- 2017 Honda CR-V
- 2018 Kia Sorento
- 2017 Mazda CX-9
- 2020 Nissan Rogue
- 2018 Subaru Forester
- 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
