These Are The Best Used AWD Cars You Can Buy Under $15,000 – Jalopnik

For some drivers, the added grip afforded by all-wheel drive (AWD) is a requisite for his or her subsequent car buy. Although some lovers imagine that tire choice is what issues most, we won’t fault of us who need energy despatched to each the entrance and rear wheels. If you’ve got ever been caught in some deep snow, then you definately’ll relate to this sentiment. 

Sure, a talented driver can handle to get unstuck even with out AWD. However, the comfort of AWD definitely turns out to be useful in such conditions, and never everybody aspires to be the subsequent Colin McRae – R.I.P. to one of many best racing drivers of all time.

We’ve already shared some perception on the very best used automobiles and SUVs for $10,000 in addition to our high selections for high-mileage automobiles which are truly value shopping for. When it comes to purchasing a used automotive outfitted with an all-wheel drivetrain and a funds of $15,000 or much less, we imagine the next automobiles are an awesome place to start out. 

Our methodology is fleshed out on the finish, however for context, every mannequin can simply be discovered within the allotted value vary with a clear title. Since figuring out the very best automobiles may be subjective, we have determined to pick out a frontrunner for a spread of classes. Remember, these are solely automobiles, not crossovers or SUVs. 

If you are in want of an AWD car and ask the overall inhabitants for his or her ideas, likelihood is “a Subaru” would be the commonest response because of its sturdy drivetrain. Plus, it is the model individuals purchase once they need to be accountable, which is why we have chosen the discontinued Subaru Legacy as our pragmatic selection. 

With a $15,000 funds, you should have entry to every part from extra inexpensive decades-old fashions, to high-mileage 2020 fashions. Just a few 2021 and 2022 ultra-high-mileage examples may be discovered, however these are few and much between. 

Some Subaru house owners say that you just’re higher off with sure generations and mannequin years, whereas others will say the newer the higher. In the top, there is not a magic mannequin yr that is fully freed from any and all points. As with any car buy, a little bit of due diligence will go a great distance. Pre-purchase inspections, car historical past and upkeep stories, and check drives are sometimes extra dependable than anecdotal proof. 

You do not have to be a World Rally Champion in an effort to admire the efficiency and capabilities of a Subaru WRX or WRX STI. One of the explanations this nameplate is the de facto selection amongst lovers is its accessibility. These rally-inspired machines are straightforward to seek out, even on the $15,000 value level. What’s extra, it is simple to seek out these with a handbook transmission. In truth, the STI has at all times been completely supplied with a stick-shift setup. 

To be honest, the Subaru WRX and WRX STI definitely aren’t the one AWD automobiles obtainable with three pedals. Its predominant rival, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, can also be a stout selection. However, the Evo was phased out after the 2015 mannequin yr, and remaining provide within the used automotive market is somewhat restricted, particularly with a $15K funds. 

For this quantity of coin, patrons might attempt to get themselves behind the wheel of one of many final STIs ever made, nevertheless it will not be straightforward. Our search yielded over 10 high-mileage examples on this value vary. To make clear, there are many 2015 to 2021 WRXes on this value vary, simply not fairly as many WRX STIs. If we had been spending our personal hard-earned money, we would be inclined to go for the earlier era STI in wagon kind. 

Built for the 2008 by 2014 mannequin years, these fashions are inclined to get loads of flack from the Subaru group. That stated, it is nonetheless a strong car and represents the one WRX STI five-door to be supplied within the U.S. Moreover, there are many these wagons available at this value level.

Notably, patrons can spend even much less in the event that they’re happy with non-STI WRXes, particularly models outfitted with automated transmissions. 

Most of us sometimes affiliate the Dodge Charger with burnouts and different rear-wheel-driven antics. However, the sedan was supplied to the general public with each a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 and an AWD setup for the 2007 by 2014 mannequin years. Production of the Charger Pursuit continued after this level, nevertheless, it was solely obtainable to police forces when new. However, used Charger Pursuit models are made obtainable to the general public by car auctions.

For those that will not be acquainted, the sixth-generation Charger spanned from 2006 by 2010, whereas the seventh-gen was constructed for the 2011 by 2023 mannequin years. As such, there are a number of variations to notice. 

When the Dodge Charger V8 AWD first hit the scene, its energy plant produced 345 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque. For 2009, that output grew to 368 horsepower and 395 lb-ft. Then, in 2012, one other bump pushed the horsepower score to 370 whereas the torque determine remained the identical. Additionally, a five-speed automated transmission remained the only real possibility all through your complete lifespan of the configuration. 

Although it is potential to seek out Charger Pursuit fashions with choices like heated entrance and rear seats, you are higher off pursuing (no pun meant) one of many earlier R/T fashions for those who’d favor an instance that options typical creature comforts, like a sunroof or premium sound system. While these sedans pre-date the 2015 facelift, the aggressive styling provides them that acquainted Mopar muscle automotive look.

For reference, each choices can be found with a $15,000 funds. Regardless of which variant you go for, you are shopping for a car that gives a patriotic soundtrack whereas flexing a bodacious bod in any and all situations. As for its efficiency capabilities, simply ask the Arkansas State Police, who managed to leap a cruiser at 100 mph. 

If the Subaru WRX STI and Dodge Charger do not fit your style, then maybe the Cadillac ATS or CTS sedan are extra your velocity. The Cadillacs are extra subtle, extra mature, than the aforementioned sedans. Plus, clear examples can simply be discovered nicely beneath the $15,000 mark. In truth, we had been capable of finding fairly respectable ATSes for lower than $10,000. 

In mixture with its all-wheel drive functionality and comparatively environment friendly but punchy turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, which produces 272 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, the ATS is a strong proposition. Along with its modest mechanical make-up, the Cadillac ATS additionally provides some extra premium touches, although it definitely is not essentially the most luxurious providing on this value vary.

Unlike the Charger’s land yacht-like mannerisms, the Alpha platform that underpins the Cadillac ATS of yesteryear has been lauded for the nimble driving dynamics it supplies. In addition, ATSes made after 2016 with AWD are completely supplied with an eight-speed automated transmission. That stated, it is a completely superb answer for somebody who needs a every day driver that is straightforward to make use of however can provide a bit of pleasure when known as upon. Admittedly, the writer of this piece, for higher or for worse, is keen on GM merchandise. Otherwise, the Lexus IS may’ve taken this spot. 

If you wished to make use of up much more of the funds, the bigger third-generation CTS can be had not rather more cash than its smaller sibling. In addition to larger proportions in and out, choosing the CTS additionally opens up the potential of going with GM’s naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 as an alternative of the smaller turbo-four. 

Few if any mainstream automotive manufacturers are extra synonymous with luxurious than Mercedes-Benz. The German marque has established itself as the usual on the subject of on a regular basis drivers that provide opulent consolation. It’s the right selection for people who worth the finer issues above all else, together with value of possession.

Although the S-Class is the model’s flagship car, the E-Class provides the same expertise at a extra inexpensive value. While it is potential to seek out the previous for lower than $15,000, it is virtually inconceivable to seek out examples which are lower than a decade previous. This might appear to be a subjective line within the sand, nevertheless, we had been capable of finding fairly a number of 2015 or newer E-Class fashions on this value vary. 

Shoppers can slender issues down even additional to fifth-gen (a.ok.a. W213) fashions, which had been constructed for the 2017 by 2023 mannequin years within the U.S., although we discovered that making that change brought about the eligible provide to dwindle from over 200 hits to lower than 20. If the change to a base four-cylinder and normal nine-speed automated transmission means lots to you, then the juice could also be definitely worth the squeeze. 

If, nevertheless, you are content material with the V6 engines and seven-speed automated gearbox discovered within the earlier fashions (aka W212), then you definately’ve bought loads of choices. This means you are extra prone to discover examples completed in your most popular colour mixture and with the choices you most need, which is right with all car purchases however much more so when luxurious is the precedence. 

You might also be capable to end up an expensive wagon. This shouldn’t be essentially the case for brand new automotive patrons, as every part however the All-Terrain model the brand new Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon is forbidden fruit within the U.S.

In case it wasn’t apparent, we love wagons. To be honest, the extra widespread BMW 3 Series sedan remains to be a sound selection, although it lacks the utility supplied by the extra spacious 3 Series wagon. Regardless of the physique configuration, a 3 Series with xDrive is an fulfilling but compliant car. 

Although a handbook transmission was supplied, it is subsequent to inconceivable to seek out one on the used automotive market. In truth, we solely found two such automobiles throughout our search, together with one E46 (fourth-gen to the uninitiated) wagon with over 160,000 miles and one E91 (fifth-gen) wagon with over 200,000 miles. Of course, these are outliers.

Despite the dearth of a 3rd pedal, the enough provide of three Series wagons at this value level represents our jack-of-all-trades choice. It has the grip, area, and efficiency everytime you need or want it, all of which is wrapped up in a premium package deal. It may not be as luxurious because the Mercedes, nevertheless it’s definitely nearer to that German rival than a Subaru. 

At this value level, your powertrain choices are both a naturally-aspirated inline-six, a turbodiesel inline-four, or a fuel turbo-four engine. Of course, purists will favor the inline-six, however the gasoline effectivity supplied by the newer four-cylinder is a compromise worthy of consideration on the subject of a car that is up for any job. For reference, diesel fashions return as much as 31 metropolis mpg and 43 freeway mpg, whereas the common fuel turbo-four fashions are rated at 23 mpg within the metropolis and 33 on the freeway.

We ought to observe that the Infiniti G37X sedan virtually took this spot, nevertheless, the appreciation for a wagon physique configuration was simply sufficient for the three Series to take the honors. 

We had been tempted to name this our scholarly selection, given the sophistication related to Volvos, however we did not need to ruffle any feathers. Instead, we took a observe from the Swedish automaker and performed it protected. If you are compelled to do the identical on the subject of car purchases, then the Volvo S60 and V60 are sound selections for AWD automobiles on a $15,000 funds. 

The discontinued S60 sedan is way simpler to seek out. At this value level the most recent mannequin you may get is a 2018. However, going for 2015 and older fashions does offer you entry to models outfitted with the larger turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. However, our affinity for wagons compels us to name out the V60. At this value level, you may be restricted to T5 fashions, which make the most of a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four and an eight-speed automated transmission. 

For the file, we’d have beloved to incorporate the bigger, discontinued XC70 (which has since been reborn as a PHEV SUV), however since its categorized as a mid-size crossover it would not fairly qualify.

Audi’s Quattro AWD system at all times supplies nice traction in inclement climate, however in purposes just like the Audi S3, S4, and S5, it additionally helps to create a sporty but smart possibility for people who’ve as much as $15,000 to spend on an AWD automotive. 

At this value level, nearly all of viable choices shall be S4s and S5s. If you go this route, it is best to know that the 4.2-liter engine underneath the hood of the Audi S4 V8 (and S5 V8) mannequin is feared by on-line automotive communities attributable to points with the timing chain setup, and changing them is somewhat costly. If this does not scare you away, chances are you’ll need to issue the price of substitute when budgeting for the acquisition of the automotive itself. Alternatively, you possibly can follow newer S4 and S5 examples that characteristic the supercharged 3.0-liter V6, which is extra highly effective and has a greater repute.

It’s potential to seek out an S3, nevertheless, the variety of obtainable models is considerably decrease than the bigger two fashions. Although it contains a smaller 2.0-liter turbo-four, its zero to 60 time is on par with that of the heavier S4 and S5. It additionally provides higher gasoline economic system, with a 2016 S3 returning 26 mpg mixed versus 21 mpg mixed for a 2016 S4 or S5 outfitted with an automated transmission.  Speaking of transmissions, the S4 and S5 may be had with a handbook, however solely about 12.5 p.c of our findings featured a 3rd pedal. 

We’d be remiss if we did not point out the Volkswagen Golf R right here. The scorching hatch is a superb selection, however fell brief to the range of the Audis’ powertrain choices together with the potential to get an Avant. 

If you like to drift underneath the radar, then you definately’ll absolutely admire the Lincoln MKZ. To be particular, we’re speaking about fashions outfitted with the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, which produced 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. That’s sufficient to generate sub-five-second sprints to 60 mph, even with a run-of-the-mill six-speed automated transmission. The undeniable fact that this efficiency sedan is available in a package deal that appears so unassuming merely spurs our need much more. 

Since such MKZs had been produced for simply three mannequin years, 2017 by 2020, we had been solely capable of supply about 40 to 50 listings. So, yeah, we actually pushed the bounds of what qualifies on the subject of the rules for this record. Still, for those who had $15,000 burning a gap in your pocket and had been after an AWD automotive that supplied extra than simply fundamental transportation, nicely, we will surely be envious of this buy. It’s extra premium and provides extra efficiency than a Ford Fusion Sport of the identical mannequin yr vary, however may be had for roughly the identical value.

Yes, we flat out broke our personal rule. No, the Toyota RAV4 would not technically meet our given definition of a automotive since it’s categorized as a crossover. However, we made this one exception because the provide of Corollas and Priuses with AWD at this value level remains to be very restricted. 

If somebody actually wished the hybrid AWD Corolla or Prius and could not anticipate costs to return down, the RAV4 is a logical different. It’s additionally essentially the most fuel-efficient selection if you’d like an all-wheel-driven Toyota at this value level. The Toyota Matrix may be discovered with AWD for much less, nevertheless, it returns fewer MPGs and is in much less provide. Yes, even lower than the Lincoln MKZ we talked about.

As for the RAV4 Hybrid, it returns over 30 MPG on the freeway and within the metropolis whereas providing more room than the opposite three Toyota fashions we have talked about. We additionally noticed a ton of high-mileage examples, which is reassuring for potential patrons. In truth, the 2016 RAV4 Hybrid ranks first in its class in JD Power shopper scores. 

With all that being stated, we really feel this one and solely exception is justified. Toyota itself can also be fairly keen on the RAV4 Hybrid, too, making the RAV4 a hybrid-only mannequin for 2026. 

As we specified earlier, the car should have a available provide of clean-titled examples beneath the $15,000 mark in an effort to make the record. Although we discovered a few Porsche 911 examples with AWD on this value vary, they had been extraordinarily scarce and subsequently did not make the reduce. Same goes for different improbable fashions, just like the Toyota Celica GT-Four and Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX.

The candidates should even be automobiles, that means coupes, hatchbacks, sedans, and sure wagons are eligible, however SUVs, vehicles, and vans of any sort should not –though we permitted a single exception in regard to the RAV4 Hybrid. 

We elected to categorize our alternatives since figuring out the very best is extremely contextual, particularly since what’s finest for one purchaser may not be the identical as what’s finest for one more. To that finish, we invite you to make use of our Best Used AWD Cars You Can Buy Under $15,000 record as a reference level throughout your car-buying endeavors.