All-wheel drive (AWD) systems are often seen as essential features in high-end SUVs, offering improved traction and handling in various conditions. However, not all AWD systems live up to the hype. Some luxury SUVs, despite their hefty price tags, struggle with flaws in their AWD performance. In this list, we’ll explore 25 high-end SUVs with surprisingly flawed AWD systems and what makes them less reliable than expected.
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Range Rover Evoque
The Range Rover Evoque is a luxury compact SUV that excels in design and comfort but falls short in AWD performance, particularly in snowy and icy conditions. Users have reported inconsistent traction control, which can make driving in winter weather unreliable. The AWD system, designed for seamless urban and off-road transitions, often struggles to provide stability in these harsher environments. Despite its Terrain Response system, the Evoque’s AWD has shown signs of being unreliable when it matters most, detracting from its otherwise strong performance features.
BMW X5
The BMW X5 is known for its refined driving experience and advanced technology, but its AWD system has been plagued with sensor malfunctions. These issues cause drivetrain faults that can lead to expensive repairs and unpredictable performance. The X5’s xDrive system, which is supposed to enhance traction, can fail due to faulty sensors, leaving drivers with reduced handling capability in varying conditions. This inconsistency undermines the reputation of a vehicle meant to deliver top-tier performance in all environments.
Audi Q7
While the Audi Q7 is praised for its spacious interior and smooth handling, its AWD system has been reported to struggle in true off-road situations. Designed to handle diverse terrains, the Q7’s Quattro system often lacks the reliability needed when navigating uneven or rocky roads. Drivers expecting robust off-road capabilities have reported performance issues, including a lack of proper power distribution during critical moments, making the AWD feature feel less reliable than expected for a vehicle in this class.
Lexus GX
The Lexus GX offers luxury and off-road potential, but its AWD system falters when it comes to navigating rough terrain. The GX is equipped with a full-time four-wheel-drive system that should excel off-road, yet drivers have experienced issues with traction and power distribution on uneven surfaces. This has been particularly problematic in more challenging terrains, where the GX’s AWD system doesn’t provide the level of support one might expect from a high-end SUV marketed for rugged conditions.
Jaguar F-Pace
The Jaguar F-Pace combines sportiness with luxury, yet its AWD system has been known to disengage unexpectedly during specific driving conditions. Designed to provide performance in various weather and road conditions, the F-Pace’s AWD system can fail to maintain traction at crucial moments, particularly when sudden maneuvers or terrain changes occur. This inconsistency has disappointed drivers who expect seamless AWD performance from a luxury SUV of this caliber.
Porsche Cayenne
While the Porsche Cayenne is synonymous with high-performance luxury, its AWD system is prone to premature wear and tear. Components within the system have shown vulnerability to frequent use, especially under demanding conditions. As a result, Cayenne owners face costly repairs over time. Despite the vehicle’s impressive handling and speed, the AWD system’s lack of durability diminishes its appeal for drivers who seek both performance and reliability in their luxury SUV.
Maserati Levante
The Maserati Levante is revered for its Italian craftsmanship and high-speed thrills, but its AWD system can be overly sensitive in wet conditions. Drivers have reported reduced handling and power distribution, particularly on slick surfaces, where the AWD should excel. This lack of precision has been a letdown for a vehicle of such pedigree, with its sophisticated design being undermined by an AWD system that doesn’t consistently perform in common real-world scenarios like rain or wet roads.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
The Land Rover Discovery Sport is built for adventure, yet its AWD system has been criticized for sensor calibration issues that can impair performance. These calibration problems often lead to imprecise traction control, causing the vehicle to struggle in off-road conditions that require accurate power distribution. While marketed as a versatile off-roader, the Discovery Sport’s AWD system does not always live up to its promise, making it less dependable for enthusiasts who expect superior off-road capabilities.
Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 is known for its safety features and elegant design, but its AWD system lags during sudden changes in traction. The system can be slow to respond when moving from dry to wet or icy conditions, leading to a delayed grip and less confident handling. This hesitation is particularly noticeable in unpredictable weather, making the otherwise reliable XC90 feel less equipped for rapidly changing driving conditions.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is an SUV that combines luxury with performance, but its AWD system struggles during high-speed cornering. Designed to handle various driving environments, the GLE’s 4MATIC system has shown weakness in maintaining stability during sharp turns at higher speeds, especially on wet or slippery roads. This lack of cornering precision is a significant drawback for a vehicle in this class, where both safety and performance are expected to be at the highest level.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio offers exhilarating handling and style, yet its AWD system often malfunctions in low-traction environments. Drivers have reported frequent power imbalances and system failures when driving in snow or mud, making it unreliable in more challenging conditions. The Stelvio’s sporty design is let down by an AWD system that fails to provide the necessary stability when traction is most needed.
Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X is a groundbreaking electric SUV, but its AWD system faces performance issues in winter weather. Despite being marketed as capable of handling various terrains, the Model X’s dual-motor system has been known to underperform in icy conditions, with drivers reporting reduced traction and delayed power distribution. This makes the vehicle less reliable in regions where winter driving is a necessity.
Infiniti QX80
The Infiniti QX80 is a large, luxury SUV with impressive towing capabilities, but its AWD system often fails to deliver optimal power distribution. Drivers have reported uneven traction when driving in wet or icy conditions, with the system struggling to maintain control. This issue, combined with the vehicle’s size, makes the QX80 less capable in environments where AWD reliability is crucial.
Cadillac XT6
The Cadillac XT6 is a stylish and spacious SUV, yet its AWD system has shown problems with responsiveness during adverse weather. In snow or rain, the system can take too long to react, leading to moments of lost traction that can compromise safety. The XT6’s AWD setup does not inspire confidence in the very conditions where it should excel, diminishing its appeal as a versatile all-weather vehicle.
Lincoln Aviator
The Lincoln Aviator impresses with its luxurious interior and hybrid options, but its AWD system has been reported to disengage under heavy loads. This issue can reduce the vehicle’s ability to handle rough terrains or inclines, which is particularly disappointing for drivers expecting robust performance from this premium SUV. The inconsistent AWD performance makes it less reliable for adventurous drives or hauling tasks.
Acura MDX
The Acura MDX offers a well-rounded driving experience, but its AWD system suffers from noticeable lag in traction recovery. When moving between different road conditions, such as from dry pavement to wet surfaces, the system’s delayed response can lead to slipping or reduced control. This flaw detracts from the MDX’s otherwise solid reputation for delivering comfort and technology in a luxury SUV.
Bentley Bentayga
The Bentley Bentayga epitomizes luxury and performance, but its AWD system struggles when adapting to sudden terrain changes. While the Bentayga is equipped with advanced off-road technology, it can lag in delivering the necessary adjustments to handle unexpected changes in traction, particularly on gravel or muddy surfaces. For a vehicle of its prestige and price, these AWD shortcomings are significant.
BMW X7
The BMW X7 is a large and luxurious SUV, but its AWD system has been prone to transmission synchronization issues. These problems can lead to uneven power distribution between the front and rear wheels, reducing the vehicle’s stability in challenging driving conditions. For a flagship SUV, the X7’s AWD reliability problems are unexpected and undermine its otherwise stellar reputation for handling.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit offers a mix of luxury and off-road capability, yet its AWD system can struggle under heavy acceleration. Drivers have reported moments where the system fails to distribute power evenly when quickly accelerating, causing a loss of control in certain conditions. Despite Jeep’s off-road legacy, the Summit’s AWD issues make it less reliable than expected for enthusiasts.
Range Rover Velar
The Range Rover Velar is a sleek and modern SUV, but its AWD system shows sluggish response in uneven terrain. Designed for both city streets and off-road adventures, the Velar’s AWD system can lag in engaging properly during challenging terrain transitions. This delay in power distribution can make the Velar less dependable in off-road settings, where quick responses are crucial.
Audi Q8
The Audi Q8 delivers a luxurious driving experience, but its AWD performance lacks consistency during off-road ventures. The vehicle’s Quattro system, while excellent on paved roads, has been known to struggle with delivering reliable traction on rocky or uneven surfaces. For a luxury SUV marketed as versatile, the Q8’s off-road shortcomings are a disappointment.
Maserati Quattroporte (AWD Version)
The AWD version of the Maserati Quattroporte is stylish and fast, but its AWD system has been criticized for underperforming in ice and snow. In colder climates, the system struggles to maintain grip, making it unreliable in the very conditions where AWD is supposed to provide added safety and control. This flaw is particularly glaring for a vehicle that is otherwise focused on delivering high performance and luxury.
Rolls-Royce Cullinan
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan offers unparalleled luxury, but its AWD system tends to underperform on steep inclines. Despite the vehicle’s advanced technology and impressive engine power, drivers have reported moments where the AWD system fails to deliver the necessary traction during uphill climbs. This issue detracts from the Cullinan’s promise of effortless performance in any condition.
Mercedes-Benz GLS
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a spacious and powerful luxury SUV, yet its AWD system can lose efficiency in high-demand situations. When carrying heavy loads or towing, the AWD system has been known to falter, reducing the vehicle’s overall stability. This inconsistency makes the GLS less reliable in scenarios where AWD should excel, such as off-road driving or under increased weight.
Genesis GV80
The Genesis GV80 has gained attention for its design and features, but its AWD system faces occasional traction and balance issues on slippery roads. When driving in rain or snow, the system has been reported to struggle with maintaining consistent grip, leading to reduced confidence behind the wheel. This flaw diminishes the GV80’s otherwise strong appeal as a luxury SUV built for various conditions.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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