Albertans are familiar with the need for all-wheel drive! Sure, there's nothing wrong with front-wheel-drive vehicles, but once you've owned an all-wheel drive vehicle, you'll be hooked! For those considering an all-wheel-drive SUV, fit for Alberta winters, under $20,000, we've put together a list of our top five picks for 2023.
Interested in an AWD car? Check out our recent blog post showcasing our top five AWD cars for under $20,000 in 2023!
Nissan Juke
Model Years: 2011-2013
This Vehicle Is For:Â Drivers looking for sporty-car performance in a crossover package
Why It Makes The List:
- Weird-but-likeable styling
- Well-executed all-wheel drive system
- Available sporty NISMO variant
The 2011-2013 Nissan Juke is a sporty crossover SUV that was first introduced to the Canadian market in 2010. The Juke is available in several trims, including the S, SV, SL, and NISMO. The base model comes standard with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and optional all-wheel-drive. The SV and SL trims come with additional features such as a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a larger touch-screen display. The NISMO trim is the sportiest version of the Juke and comes with a turbocharged engine that produces 215 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. It also comes with sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and unique exterior styling. All trim levels, from the 2011-2013 model years, can be purchased for under $20,000, making the Juke an outstanding contender for a reliable crossover SUV with all-wheel-drive!
Subaru Outback
Model Years: 2010-2013
This Vehicle Is For: Motorists looking for no-nonsense, all-weather family transportation
Why It Makes The List:
- Spacious without being bulky
- Efficient four-cylinder engine
- Available with a manual transmission
The 2010-2013 Subaru Outback is a midsize wagon that was designed for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. It comes in several trims including the 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 3.6R and 3.6R Limited. The base 2.5i and 2.5i Premium trims come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 173 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. These trims also come with standard all-wheel drive and a CVT transmission. The 2.5i Limited and 3.6R Limited trims come with additional features such as leather seats, a sunroof, and a touchscreen infotainment system. The 3.6R Limited is powered by a 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine that produces 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque.
The Subaru Outback has consistently received high praise for its capable all-wheel drive system, comfortable ride, and spacious interior, making it an excellent choice for Alberta shoppers looking for an SUV under $20,000 with all-wheel-drive!
Toyota Venza
Model Years: 2009-2015
This Vehicle Is For: Family drivers who prioritize practical space and good fuel economy
Why It Makes The List:
- Roomy, flexible interior
- Impressive fuel economy
- Car-like driving feel
The 2009-2015 Toyota Venza is a midsize crossover SUV from the masterminds at Toyota. It was made available in four trim levels: LE, XLE, Limited, and the hybrid-only XLE V6. Standard features on the LE trim include a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker sound system, while higher trims add features such as a JBL sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and leather upholstery.
It was powered by a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque, a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 246 pound-feet of torque, or a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce a total of 200 horsepower.
The Venza comes equipped with optional all-wheel-drive, which we highly recommend! House of Cars often has Toyota Venza models in its inventory, for under $20,000, making it a fantastic choice for an AWD SUV!
Audi Q5
Model Years: 2009-2014
This Vehicle Is For: Fans of stylish luxury in a compact package
Why It Makes The List:
- Great styling
- Well-executed infotainment
- Available adjustable suspension
The 2009-2014 Audi Q5 is a compact luxury SUV that was first introduced in 2009. It features a 248 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a eight-speed automatic transmission. It also comes standard with all-wheel drive.
It has a fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. It has a starting MSRP of $40,500. It received positive reviews for its comfortable ride, high-quality interior, and strong performance.
The Audi Q5 comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), which is also popularly known as Quattro (Audi's proprietary AWD system that provides improved traction and handling in various road conditions.) The Q5 is a fantastic choice for those looking for a superior AWD SUV to conquer Alberta's Winters!
Ford Escape
Model Years: 2013-2015
This Vehicle Is For: Adventurous families and drivers who need light-duty towing capacity
Why It Makes The List:
- Rugged driving feel
- Smooth powertrains
- Useful high-tech options
The 2013-2015 Ford Escape is agreat option for buyers looking for a compact SUV with available all-wheel-drive! The Escape is available in four trim levels: S, SE, Titanium, and Sport. It comes with a choice of three engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The standard transmission is a six-speed automatic, and front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Standard features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system, while upper trims offer features such as a sunroof, leather seats, and a Sony premium audio system.
