Popular 2026 models that offer both drivetrains, compared side by side: starting MSRP, EPA combined MPG, AWD premium, and a five year net ownership cost difference. Figures are representative base-trim starting prices; confirm current pricing with the manufacturer. Filter by category and sort by what matters to you.
FWD
$32,495
27 mpg
AWD
$34,495
26 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$1,295
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
Highest AWD premium on the list at $2,000. Hard to justify outside snow markets.
FWD
$31,995
30 mpg
AWD
$33,495
28 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$1,045
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
Average premium. Intelligent AWD is decent for moderate winter weather.
FWD
$32,450
30 mpg
AWD
$33,950
29 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$720
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
Real-Time AWD is part-time and good for rain or light snow. FWD covers most US drivers.
FWD
$34,350
40 mpg
AWD
$35,850
37 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$950
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
Hybrid efficiency offsets the AWD fuel penalty. Good cold-weather pick.
FWD
$25,350
31 mpg
AWD
$26,850
28 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$1,325
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
$1,500 premium. Small, efficient, and capable for city to mountain mixes.
FWD
$30,550
28 mpg
AWD
$32,050
26 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$1,140
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
HTRAC AWD is capable. $1,500 premium is average for the class.
FWD
$24,590
30 mpg
AWD
$26,090
29 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$720
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
Affordable AWD with average premium. Strong FWD value either way.
FWD
$31,290
28 mpg
AWD
$33,090
26 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$1,440
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
$1,800 AWD premium is above average. FWD covers most conditions.
FWD
$31,060
32 mpg
AWD
$32,660
31 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$785
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
Tiny mpg penalty (around 1 mpg) and average premium. Reasonable AWD value.
FWD
$29,495
51 mpg
AWD
$31,020
50 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$550
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
Now hybrid-only, one of the few sedans with an AWD option. The mpg gap is tiny; worth it only in heavy snow areas.
FWD
$24,035
32 mpg
AWD
$25,535
30 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$965
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
Lowest AWD MSRP on the list. Solid budget entry for AWD shoppers.
FWD
$31,900
43 mpg
AWD
$33,300
41 mpg
5 year net AWD cost
+$620
Premium + fuel + service - resale recovery
Now hybrid-only. AWD adds about $1,400 with a 2 mpg gap. Decent value AWD option.
These models come with AWD on every trim. There is no FWD version to compare against.
AWD standard. Symmetrical full-time AWD on every trim.
Combined: 29 mpg
AWD standard. Popular in snow belt states.
Combined: 29 mpg
AWD standard. Most affordable Subaru crossover.
Combined: 29 mpg
AWD standard sedan, one of the cheapest AWD cars sold.
Combined: 32 mpg
AWD standard on every trim (i-Activ AWD). No FWD version to compare.
Combined: 27 mpg
Hybrid trims are AWD standard. Gas Corolla Cross still offers FWD.
Combined: 42 mpg
| Rank | Vehicle | AWD MSRP | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toyota Corolla Cross AWD | $25,535 | 30 |
| 2 | Kia Seltos AWD | $26,090 | 29 |
| 3 | Subaru Impreza AWD | $26,295 | 32 |
| 4 | Hyundai Kona AWD | $26,850 | 28 |
| 5 | Subaru Crosstrek AWD | $30,690 | 29 |
For buyers who have decided FWD is enough (true for most US drivers).
Excellent FWD sedan. No AWD trim, no need for one.
Combined: 36 mpg
Best selling car worldwide. FWD only, strong reliability.
Combined: 35 mpg
Best in class fuel economy. FWD covers daily driving.
Combined: 37 mpg
Sporty, well built. FWD is standard; AWD is an upper-trim option most buyers can skip.
Combined: 31 mpg
Specification revision 2026-04-28