
All-wheel drive is often seen as the hallmark of a good all-terrain vehicle, but there is more to it than simply being able to overcome mud or snow. Fast cars with AWD benefit from added traction and improved handling, which also makes for quicker acceleration. In fact, AWD sports cars are quite common these days, especially from premium performance brands like BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi, but even American muscle cars are departing from the RWD-only mentality. To give you an idea of how widespread this acceptance is, here is our list of the best all-wheel-drive sports cars of 2022.
Characteristics of AWD Sports Cars
While there are plenty of vehicles with AWD, sports cars are a slightly different breed. They have their own unique qualities that set them apart from rough-and-tumble SUVs or all-terrain pickup trucks. These include:
- Design: There are certainly some sporty crossovers out there, but for a genuinely athletic driving experience, you can’t settle for less than a sedan or coupe. Size doesn’t matter as much, though small cars are often seen as more nimble and cossetting. Larger vehicles can support better engines, however, and they have more of a balanced focus between performance and comfort.
- Performance: Speaking for engines and performance, the best AWD sports cars are seldom lacking when it comes to sheer power. There aren’t as many V6 or V8 options as there once were, but a good turbocharged four-cylinder still delivers bucket loads of fun. Automatic transmissions are the norm, too, but a few automakers still offer the option of an engaging manual.
- Budget: You normally pay more for the sheer indulgence of sports cars, and new AWD variants are generally even more expensive. This is because the drivetrain is more complex; it also means the added weight has a negative impact on fuel economy. There are still some relatively cheap choices out there, but the top sports cars in the USA are going to cost you.
Read more - Best All-Wheel Drive Sports Cars of 2022