Volkswagen Cars with AWD (7 Models: New & Used)
Although Volkswagen is a mainstream car manufacturer, its German-engineering vehicles command above-average prices in their respective segments, including the ones with all-wheel drive.
The following Volkswagen cars and SUVs have the all-weather-capable AWD system that sends and varies power to all four wheels.
Are Volkswagens All-Wheel Drives?
The German marque has a reputation for building high-quality vehicles with sporty handling and a premium driving experience.
Most Volkswagens have an optional all-wheel drive, although you’re likelier to see the system in the automaker’s SUVs than sedans.
Those shopping for AWD sedans can consider the following alternatives from mainstream car makers:
Or explore the more premium options below:
Volkswagen Hatchback with AWD
#1 Volkswagen Golf R
With the regular Golf hatchback’s retirement in 2021, the higher-performance R version continues to thrill enthusiasts with its 300-plus horsepower turbocharged power plant and equally impressive handling.
All VW Golf R models have a traction-enhancing all-wheel-drive system with torque-vectoring capability at the rear wheels.
The outstanding driving performance hasn’t come at the expense of ride quality, with the Golf R remaining relatively quiet at elevated speeds and the suspension offering a compliant ride.
Volkswagen Sedan with AWD
#2 Volkswagen Arteon
Unlike most regular midsize sedans, the Volkswagen Arteon has a sleek coupe-like body but abundant cargo space that resembles a hatchback.
Volkswagen offers the Arteon optional all-wheel drive with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine and communicative steering.
The Arteon’s overall refinement is exemplary, with only its high asking price a potential stumbling block for mainstream car buyers.
Volkswagen SUVs with AWD
#3 Volkswagen Taos
The extra-small but big in style and driving satisfaction Taos crossover is Volkswagen’s most compact SUV.
In a case of a vehicle making a considerable impact on its debut, the VW Taos has all the making of a top dog in an increasingly competitive subcompact class.
Besides the optional all-wheel drive that increases its wet-weather capability, VW Taos offers sharp handling, a comfortable cabin, and ample cargo space despite the diminutive dimensions.
It corners well while keeping body roll in check, and the suspension does a good job of providing a firm but compliant ride.
#4 Volkswagen Tiguan
In arguably the most hotly contested class, the small Tiguan SUV differentiates itself by being one of a few that offers a third-row seat.
Like many segment rivals, all Volkswagen Tiguan models come with an optional all-wheel drive for added grip when traction is at a premium.
The roomy cabin rides smoothly and quietly, and the sharp exterior styling is typical of the German marque.
#5 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Atlas Cross Sport and Atlas are midsize entrants from Volkswagen’s SUV lineup; the former has two rows of seats, while the latter adds a third row for extra passengers.
Since its introduction in 2020, the VW Atlas Cross Sport has had the all-wheel-drive system as optional equipment; front-wheel drive is standard.
Atlas Cross Sport’s class-competitive strong points include a roomy interior, agile handling for a midsize, and excellent outward visibility, with the below-average fuel economy its notable drawback.
#6 Volkswagen Atlas
Seating up to seven, the VW Atlas has all the right qualities to become a strong pick among three-row midsize SUVs:
- Abundant space in the first and second rows, while the third can still fit 6-feet adults.
- Firm and composed ride quality.
- Plenty of storage space with the final row seatback up or folded.
Not all VW Atlas SUVs are all-wheel drives, with FWD the standard provision and AWD optional.
The three-row midsize class has several compelling choices, such as:
Volkswagen Electric Vehicle with AWD
#7 Volkswagen ID.4
The ID.4 signals Volkswagen’s foray into the EV market.
Complementing the good electric range is the ID.4’s AWD drivetrain, abundant technology features, and a versatile body that offers more storage room than competing EVs.
Other AWD electric SUVs worth considering are:
Is Volkswagen AWD Good?
Although Volkswagen’s overall reliability as a company is subpar compared to its Asian foes, its 4Motion all-wheel-drive system has recorded few problems.
Instead, engine-related and cooling system issues dominate VW’s owner-reported problems.
Consumer Reports rank the following Volkswagen models with AWD as the more reliable ones among the German manufacturer’s mediocre-durability product line:
- VW Atlas.
- VW ID.4.
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