When shopping for a new or used car, there are many options and upgrades to consider, with each providing its own unique benefits. One excellent option for your new or used car or SUV is an all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle. While standard drive trains deliver torque only to the front or rear tires, the all-wheel drive delivers torque to all four wheels of your vehicle at once when you hit the accelerator.

Spreading the torque to all four wheels can make a vehicle not only more powerful but also more responsive and capable of gripping the road in difficult conditions. If you are in the market for a new vehicle, it's important to understand both the benefits of an AWD vehicle and what the best options are when searching for an all-wheel drive car. This guide can help you understand the perks of Mazda's proprietary AWD system and the benefits of each Mazda AWD model.

Which Mazda Models Have AWD?

All-wheel drive is a highly beneficial option on a car, particularly if you operate your vehicle in less than ideal conditions, such as unfinished roads or during snowy winters. Mazda understands the benefits of all-wheel drive, and that's why the manufacturer offers it on four different models:

• Mazda CX-3. The Mazda CX-3 is one of three excellent options for Mazda lovers looking for an SUV. As a subcompact SUV, the Mazda CX-3 is the smallest option that Mazda offers in this category. It's a perfect fit for drivers who need more storage space than a sedan, but who still want a vehicle that handles like a car. That added control is only enhanced by the addition of all-wheel drive.
  
• Mazda CX-9. If you need more room in your vehicle, the Mazda CX-9 is the perfect solution. The spacious interior has room for seven passengers across its three different rows of seating. If you need to move property instead of people, the CX-9 has you covered as well. By folding down one or both rows of seats, you significantly increase the cargo capacity of your CX-9. You can even mix and match, keeping the middle row and folding down the back, to carry up to five people and any cargo you and your party need where you're going.
  
• Mazda CX-30. As a crossover SUV, the Mazda CX-30 fits nicely in between the Mazda CX-3 and Mazda CX-9. While still offering more interior space than the Mazda CX-3, the CX-30 also provides more car-like handling than a CX-9.
  
• Mazda3. You don't need to buy an SUV if you want a vehicle that can handle even the roughest of road conditions. That's because the Mazda3 now comes with all-wheel drive. The Mazda3 allows you to enjoy all the benefits of owning a sedan, with the all-weather capabilities of an all-wheel drive vehicle. The Mazda3 is available in both a sedan and hatchback option, so you can even opt for increased cargo capacity if you want it.

What Are the Benefits of a Mazda AWD System?

Owning a vehicle with all-wheel drive provides many safety and performance benefits that vehicles with front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive simply cannot match. The benefits of an all-wheel drive vehicle are only enhanced when you opt for a Mazda AWD vehicle. Below are some of the top reasons to opt for a Mazda all-wheel drive vehicle.

• Mazda's AWD vehicles have more grip and less slip. All-wheel drive systems are designed to maximize the grip that your car can generate against the road in both good and poor weather conditions. With adaptive all-wheel drive, you can significantly reduce the frequency of slipping so you can maintain control over your vehicle and drive safely year-round. This provides both a significant safety benefit and reduces your exposure to costly repairs as a result of collisions when driving.
  
• There is improved handling in corners. All-wheel drive doesn't just make your car more capable of getting traction from a standstill or when accelerating and decelerating on straightaways. AWD also provides enhanced grip and control through turns. This extra torque will allow your car to pull you through the bend effectively. This will increase your efficiency and reduce the likelihood of spinning or sliding, even when conditions are not optimal.
  
• Mazda AWD vehicles have advanced sensor monitoring. Every Mazda all-wheel drive vehicle comes equipped with I-Activ, which provides state-of-the-art all-wheel drive performance and capabilities. I-Activ all-wheel drive utilizes 27 different sensors, taking over 200 readings per second, so it can gather critical information as you drive. Since Mazda's systems are receiving comprehensive data in real-time, those automated systems can respond as effectively as possible.
  
• Every Mazda AWD vehicle has an adaptive response system. The advanced cruise control systems in Mazda all-wheel drive vehicles take full advantage of the increased data from the 27 sensors to automatically adjust power distribution in your vehicle. This helps to maximize grip and control in all weather conditions and driving situations. Mazda's AWD vehicles respond not only to the condition of the road but also to other forces such as G-Force in a turn and driver response. This gives you maximum control and safety while driving.
  
• Mazda's AWD system allows for smoother rides. The adaptive response of Mazda all-wheel drive vehicles doesn't only make them safer, but also more enjoyable to drive. More control means a smoother ride and more ability to avoid hazards. This makes for a more pleasant experience both for you and for any passengers riding in your vehicle.

Would You Like to Test Drive a Mazda AWD Vehicle?

If you are interested in buying a new or used Mazda vehicle, Bountiful Mazda has plenty in stock. All used vehicles undergo a 125-point inspection, and our used stock includes vehicles with all-wheel drive and I-Activ systems. We offer test drives for numerous vehicles, so you can experience Mazda's AWD first-hand.

Come out to the dealership, call us at 801-387-2277, or get in touch with us online. One of our trained professionals will help you find the right Mazda AWD vehicle, and our finance team will discuss the best payment options for you.