When it comes to buying an all-wheel drive (AWD) car, you’ve got no shortage of options to choose from. But if you’re after the best AWD cars of 2021? U.S. News & World Reports’ top picks for the best AWD sedans of 2021 make for a great place to start. 

5. The 2021 Porsche Taycan is an AWD electric car

Price: $82,700
Price with AWD: $103,800

If you find yourself lusting after an AWD electric car that’s dripping in high-tech features, the 2021 Porsche Taycan is hard to beat. As a matter of fact, this year’s model even found itself among U.S. News’ top picks for the best AWD cars of 2021. Though, it’s no surprise as to why.

Opt for the 4S, which is standard with AWD, and this new Porsche will have you moving from zero to 60 mph in less than four seconds. And when it comes to features? The Porsche Taycan aims to please with high-tech amenities like Porsche Voice Pilot, built-in Apple Music, online search, and navigation.

4. The 2021 Porsche Panamera is one of the best AWD sedans

Price: $88,400
Price with AWD: $93,000

The Taycan isn’t the only new Porsche that landed a spot on U.S. News’ list of the best AWD cars of 2021. The organization also selected the 2021 Porsche Panamera as one of the best AWD sedans of 2021. Much like the Taycan, AWD isn’t standard in the Panamera.

The good news is that the Panamera does make up for its high price with a long list of standard features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, navigation, leather seating, and a panoramic sunroof. 

3. The 2021 Tesla Model 3 AWD is the least expensive Tesla with AWD

Price: $39,990
Price with AWD: $49,990

After a Tesla with AWD? Then you’ll be pleased to know that the 2021 Tesla Model 3 landed a spot on U.S. News’ list of the best AWD cars of 2021. The 2021 Tesla Model 3 starts at $39,990. However, upgrading to all-wheel drive will cost you. 

In fact, while the entry-level Tesla Model 3 isn’t standard with AWD, both Long Range and Performance models are. While the Long Range starts at $49,990, the Performance model starts at $56,990. The good news is that both Tesla sedans boast upwards of 300 miles of EPA-estimated range.

2. The 2021 Tesla Model S is another AWD electric car

Price: $84,990
Price with AWD: $84,990

Sitting near the top of U.S. News’ list of the best AWD cars of 2021 is the 2021 Tesla Model S. Unlike the Tesla Model 3, however, this Model S comes standard with all-wheel drive. In fact, both Long Range and Plaid models come standard with it. Meaning, no having to upgrade if you opt for this AWD electric car. 

Standard all-wheel drive isn’t all that the new Tesla Model 3 has going for it either. According to U.S. News, what sets this AWD electric car apart from its competitors is its “sheer speed.” The entry-level Model S delivers up to 155 mph while the Plaid achieves a top speed of 200 mph. 

1. The new Audi A7 is the best AWD car of 2021

Price: $69,200
Price with AWD: $69,200

The Audi A7 successfully landed the top spot on U.S. News’ list of the best AWD cars of 2021. This year’s model starts at $69,200 and comes standard with all-wheel drive. Also standard is a 335-hp turbocharged V6 engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Audi A7 is also available with a 591-hp twin-turbo V8 that can move from zero to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds.

Perhaps what’s most compelling about the 2021 Audi A7 is that it has the largest rear cargo area in the luxury large car class, U.S. News reports. In fact, with just under 25 cubic feet of cargo space and a slick hatchback design, loading and unloading luggage from this AWD car is an absolute breeze.

Is AWD worth the money?

If you need a vehicle that’s capable of taking on slippery conditions and uneven pavement, then buying an AWD car is likely worth the money for you. Fortunately, U.S. News’ list of the best AWD cars of 2021 offers up plenty of options worth considering. From the 2021 Audi A7 to the 2021 Porsche Taycan, these new AWD sedans will be sure to please.