All wheel drive v. rear wheel drive in DC winters?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here.

I'm debating a RWD BMW X3, AWD BMW X3, or a Mazda CX-5 AWD fully loaded. The RWD X3 is around $6,000 more than the CX-5, the X3 AWD 8K more.

Been agonizing over it for a while an am getting frustrated... appreciate everyone's help on this!

The BMW is not $6k/$8k better than the Mazda in any objective measurement. The Mazda will also be cheaper to maintain once you're out of warranty, too. You'd be paying a premium to get the BMW roundel on the hood. I wouldn't make that trade, but we're in DC after all, and I'm aware that many around here would jump at that chance. Your mileage may vary.

[Anonymous]

Speaking as the entirely satisfied owner of a BMW X3, the Mazda may be the best choice for you. It's very attractively styled, should be relatively reliable, and will give you a nicely equipped vehicle at a price point you find attractive. In general, you'd select one of the BMWs if you placed a higher priority on handling and performance (at least for some X3 trim levels), preferred the BMW's styling or features, and are not very price sensitive. BMW is also a status brand, to the extent that may be a consideration for some people. The Mazda is a fine choice by itself.

[Anonymous]

OP here again.

Thanks. The Mazda is a great car, and there's no better value out there in the class.

Despite the reviews (and I swear I've read every one!), the CX-5 interior just isn't as attractive to me and I really didn't love the shape/feel of the seats... seems minor but if you're sitting in them for almost two hours a day and have typical middle aged back problems, it matters.

It comes down to price sensitivity more than anything. The features and handling are pretty similar and the Mazda's reliability/holding value is clearly superior. If I can swing the higher payment each month, being in a car I like better will make the return to work and the frustrating commute a bit more manageable.

And if I can't, then the CX-5 is a great alternative. It's a win-win.

[Anonymous]

I could barely get up a tiny hill with a dusting of snow when I had a rwd. Only AWD for me now.

[Anonymous]

RWD is fine. I have the luxury of working from home, which I do when the roads are bad. But who am I kidding - my last five cars have all ben front wheel drive because I'm cheap.

[Anonymous]

I like the old school approach. RWD until I pull the lever next to my gear shift and then 4WD. If it gets really bad, push the button above that and engage lockers.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here.

I'm debating a RWD BMW X3, AWD BMW X3, or a Mazda CX-5 AWD fully loaded. The RWD X3 is around $6,000 more than the CX-5, the X3 AWD 8K more.

Been agonizing over it for a while an am getting frustrated... appreciate everyone's help on this!

Get the cx 5. Much better car.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here again.

Thanks. The Mazda is a great car, and there's no better value out there in the class.

Despite the reviews (and I swear I've read every one!), the CX-5 interior just isn't as attractive to me and I really didn't love the shape/feel of the seats... seems minor but if you're sitting in them for almost two hours a day and have typical middle aged back problems, it matters.

It comes down to price sensitivity more than anything. The features and handling are pretty similar and the Mazda's reliability/holding value is clearly superior. If I can swing the higher payment each month, being in a car I like better will make the return to work and the frustrating commute a bit more manageable.

And if I can't, then the CX-5 is a great alternative. It's a win-win.

The seats are not a minor consideration - they're your constant interface with the vehicle and if you're uncomfortable you'll be miserable. I'd think that finding a car with seats you can be comfortable in would be an essential criterion, even if not to the exclusion of other considerations. Maybe expand your search to encompass some other brands and models in your general price range, to see if alternatives exist which might be a better all-around fit for you. Mercedes GLC class, Alfa-Romeo Stelvio or Tonale (when available), Cadillac XT-4, or XT-5. Different variants of the BMW X3 offer different seats, too.

[Anonymous]

How comfortable are you in heavy rain and snow? I drive an Outback because I wanted the assurance of safety and good performance. I just bought my fifth Subaru yesterday; I've been driving them for 21 years and I've seen scores of cars stuck by the side of the road during winter storms when I just power on through.

[Anonymous]

Try to figure out an extended test drive in those vehicles to see how your body feels. Coming from a few BMWs, what I noticed the most between that car and other vehicles are the seats and it’s ergonomics. If you get the X3 with the sport seats it will allow it to support your back on longer commutes. Not sure if you are looking at preowned but most BMWs have poor resale value so take that into consideration.

[Anonymous]

I’ve had several RWD BMWs and sports cars as my only car in the DC area since 2008 with no problem. I have a flexible schedule so I’m never on the road when there’s more than 3 inches of snow on the ground and always make sure I have good all season or winter tires. Don’t get caught in winter weather with summer tires and you’ll be fine.

[Anonymous]

I’m from the Midwest close to the Canadian border and still wouldn’t think AWD is necessary for most. We don’t get bad weather here to warrant it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I’m from the Midwest close to the Canadian border and still wouldn’t think AWD is necessary for most. We don’t get bad weather here to warrant it.

+1

This thread is incredible. People know so little about cars, tires, and how to drive. RWD struggles in the rain?! Wow. No. That means you have bad tires.

I inherited a RWD Volvo when I was a college kid in Vermont. After college I lived in Buffalo. I put on really good tires and I was easily able to make it to my ski instructor job every day.

For people who can't be bothered to ensure that decent tires are on their vehicles, I guess AWD provides a bit of help. But as a PP said, if you have crap tires on your car, AWD only helps so much.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Looking at buying a new car, rear wheel drive is standard... 2K extra for all wheel drive. Seems like we don't get much snow any more, but we do get some I guess.

Worth it to spend more for AWD or stick w RWD?

RWD will be awful in snowy and mixed precipitation weather. If you are aware of this and can plan around it you will be ok. Plenty of RWD cars on the road but they are the ones struggling most when conditions are bad.

One of the most absurd things posted here.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I’d never buy a RWD vehicle in this area as my only/main car.

Me either. Front wheel drive is fine. Almost never need all wheel drive.

But rear wheel? Nope.