Used AWD SUVs Australia

An All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system is your best friend when things get slick. Unlike a standard car, a used AWD SUV sends power to all four wheels, giving you much better grip when pulling away from lights or cornering on wet bitumen.

If you are hunting for a bargain, the second-hand market is full of reliable options. Here are the top 5 used AWD SUVs that offer the best balance of safety, value, and performance for Australian winters.

1. Used Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is often called the king of the "small" AWD SUV Australia category, even though it feels plenty big inside. What sets it apart is the Symmetrical AWD system. Most SUVs wait for a wheel to slip before they kick into gear, but the Forester is always sending power to all four corners.

This permanent grip is exactly what you want when hitting black ice or heavy rain on the way to Mount Buller. Models from 2018 onwards are great value and come with "X-Mode," a special setting that helps the car crawl through deep snow or thick mud without getting stuck.

• Why it’s great for winter: Excellent ground clearance and a low centre of gravity for stability.

• Search for: 2017–2021 models for the best balance of price and tech.

2. Toyota RAV4 AWD

The Toyota RAV4 is the best-selling SUV in the country for a reason. While the hybrid models get all the headlines, the used SUV deals on the petrol AWD versions are fantastic for winter safety.

The RAV4 uses an "on-demand" AWD system. It stays in front-wheel drive to save fuel on dry days but switches to AWD instantly if it feels the tyres losing traction. It is incredibly reliable and holds its value better than almost any other car on this list. If you find a used RAV4 AWD from the current generation (2019 onwards), you get a very modern safety suite that helps keep you in your lane when visibility is poor.

• Why it’s great for winter: Practical, easy to drive, and legendary Toyota reliability.

• Search for: The GXL or Cruiser AWD trims for better interior comfort during cold snaps.

3. Mazda CX-5 AWD

If you want something that feels a bit more premium inside while still handling the wet, the Mazda CX-5 is a top pick. It is widely considered the best SUV in Australia for people who actually enjoy driving.

The i-Activ AWD system in the CX-5 is smart. It monitors everything from outside temperature to windscreen wiper use to predict when the road might be slippery. It can shift power to the rear wheels before you even feel a slip. This makes it one of the safest small AWD cars Australia has for navigating tight, wet mountain passes.

• Why it’s great for winter: Precise steering and a high-quality cabin that keeps the winter chill out.

• Search for: The 2.5L Turbo models if you want extra grunt for overtaking in the rain.

4. Mitsubishi Outlander

The Mitsubishi Outlander is the quiet achiever of the AWD world. It offers a lot of metal for your money, making it a prime choice for families. Many used models come with a 5+2 seating arrangement, which is handy for hauling the kids and their ski gear.

The Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system used in the Outlander was born from Mitsubishi's rally heritage. It manages how the car turns by braking individual wheels to keep you on your intended path. On a flooded highway or a slushy road, this system feels incredibly planted and secure.

• Why it’s great for winter: Very spacious and offers a "Snow" mode that softens throttle response to prevent wheel spin.

• Search for: 2016–2020 models for some of the best used SUV deals.

5. Hyundai Kona AWD

Don’t let the size fool you. If you prefer a small AWD SUV Australia style, the Kona is a powerhouse. Most people buy the front-wheel-drive version, but the AWD variants come with a more powerful 1.6L turbo engine and a more sophisticated rear suspension.

It is nimble enough for city parking but has the "lock" function on its AWD system. This allows you to force the car to split power 50/50 between the front and rear wheels at low speeds—perfect for getting out of a snowy driveway or a muddy car park at the foot of the mountains.

• Why it’s great for winter: Compact and easy to handle in bad weather, with plenty of punch for highway driving.

• Search for: The "Elite" or "Highlander" AWD trims for heated seats—a must-have for winter mornings.
  
  

Why AWD Matters for Australian Winters

In Australia, our winter roads are often "greasy." This happens when light rain mixes with oil and dust on the road surface after a dry spell. A standard two-wheel drive car can easily spin its wheels when taking off from a stop sign in these conditions.

An SUV AWD setup provides that extra layer of security. It isn't just about going fast; it's about being able to steer and stop effectively. When combined with a good set of tyres, these vehicles provide the peace of mind you need when the weather turns sour in May or June.

Staying Safe on the Road This Season

Buying a used SUV is only the first step. To stay safe this winter, keep these tips in mind:

• Check your tread: Even the best AWD system can't help if your tyres are bald. Ensure you have at least 3mm of tread for wet weather.

• Lights on: In heavy rain or fog, turn your headlights on manually. Don't rely on "auto" settings, as they sometimes don't trigger in grey daylight.

• Slow down: AWD helps you move, but it doesn't help you stop any faster than a regular car on ice. Give yourself extra braking distance.

Find Your Next Winter Ride

Ready to upgrade to a safer vehicle? Check out our latest listings for a used Subaru Forester or browse our current used SUV deals to find the perfect fit for your family. Stay safe and enjoy the drive this winter!

View Latest Used AWD SUV Deals Here

FAQs

Is an AWD SUV better than a 4WD for winter?

For most Aussie drivers, AWD is better. 4WD systems are usually for heavy off-roading and need to be manually engaged. AWD is automatic and works at highway speeds, making it much more useful for wet roads and light snow.

Does a used Subaru Forester always have AWD?

In Australia, yes. Almost every Forester sold here features Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD as standard. This is why it is consistently rated as one of the best AWD SUV Australia options for safety-conscious buyers.

Are small AWD cars Australia friendly for snow?

Yes, small AWD cars like the Hyundai Kona or Subaru XV (Crosstrek) are great for the snow. They are lighter and often easier to control on slippery descents than heavy, bulky 4WDs.

Should I get a petrol or diesel AWD SUV for winter?

Both work well, but diesel engines offer more torque at low revs, which can be helpful for pulling through slush. However, modern petrol AWD SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 AWD are more than capable for most Australian winter conditions.

What should I look for when buying a used AWD SUV?

Check the service history to ensure the AWD system (differentials and transfer case) has had its oil changed. Also, look for signs of underbody damage that might suggest the car was used for heavy off-roading.