Cheapest All-Wheel Drive SUV Costs Only $23K and Is Best in Class
An all-wheel drive system for an SUV is an appealing feature, especially for drivers in climates with snowy winter weather. The extra traction from AWD is also helpful for off-road use and travel on poor-quality roads. And for those that want an affordable SUV with AWD, there’s the 2023 Mazda CX-30. With a starting price under $23K, the CX-30 is the cheapest new all-wheel drive SUV in 2023. Also, experts rate the Mazda subcompact as the best in class.
2023 Mazda CX-30 is the cheapest new SUV with all-wheel drive in 2023
With a starting price of only $22,950 MSRP, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 is the cheapest new SUV with all-wheel drive in 2023. It edges out the next most affordable one, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport ($22,995 MSRP).
Here are the cheapest new SUVs with all-wheel drive — with starting prices for AWD versions:
- 2023 Mazda CX-30: $22,950 MSRP
- 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: $22,995 MSRP
- 2023 Hyundai Kona: $23,640 MSRP
- 2023 Subaru Crosstrek: $23,645 MSRP
- 2023 Chevy Trailblazer: $24,100 MSRP
- 2023 Kia Seltos: $24,890 MSRP
- 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross: $24,910 MSRP
- 2023 Honda HR-V: $25,300 MSRP
- 2023 Subaru Forester: $26,395 MSRP
- 2023 Volkswagen Taos: $26,495 MSRP
There are cheaper front-wheel drive versions of some of these SUVs. However, for the Mazda CX-30, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, Subaru Crosstrek, and Subaru Forester, AWD is standard for all models.
Automotive experts rate the affordable Mazda CX-30 as the best subcompact SUV
Along with being the cheapest new all-wheel drive SUV, the 2023 Mazda is rated by automotive experts as the best in class for the subcompact SUV segment. This includes Car and Driver and U.S. News & World Report.
There are multiple factors that make the CX-30 the best in class. While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, it’s hard not to get drawn into the stylish exterior design of the affordable Mazda SUV. In a sea of similarly-styled crossover SUVs, it’s a standout model.
Also, the CX-30 is one of the most fun-to-drive models in the segment. It boasts excellent driving dynamics — with nimble handling, good cornering abilities, and responsive steering. The performance is especially impressive for the optional turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. This enables the AWD-equipped SUV to accelerate from 0-60 mph in only 5.8 seconds.
Furthermore, the CX-30 has one of the most upscale cabins in the subcompact SUV segment. It has a level of quality and comfort that one might not expect to find in such an affordable vehicle.
2023 CX-30 has many standard features
Furthering the value element of the 2023 CX-30 is its wide array of standard features. In addition to all-wheel drive, this includes an infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beam headlights, adaptive cruise control, power-folding side mirrors, a remote keyless entry system, push-button start, and smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
For budget-minded automotive shoppers that want an AWD SUV, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 is an affordable choice. It’s the cheapest new SUV with all-wheel drive — with a starting cost under $23K. And on top of that, experts rate the Mazda subcompact as the best in class.
