For enthusiasts, the allure of all-wheel-drive sports cars lies in their ability to put power to the pavement under any condition, rain, snow, or sunshine. Yet while these cars offer blistering performance and everyday usability, their maintenance costs often send would-be buyers running for the nearest economy sedan. Fortunately, not all AWD sports cars are financial black holes. Some manage to blend excitement, reliability, and reasonable upkeep costs into one compelling package. Whether it’s a turbocharged Subaru or a refined Lexus, these models prove you don’t have to sacrifice your savings for an engaging drive.

Below, we break down ten AWD sports cars that balance thrilling performance with surprisingly affordable maintenance. Each vehicle brings something distinct to the table, from sharp cornering to straight-line speed, while keeping five-year ownership costs well below the typical premium-performance average.

Cadillac CT5-V AWD

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $4,866

Cadillac’s CT5-V AWD strikes an appealing balance between American muscle and European refinement. Its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 produces 360 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic and a sophisticated AWD system. Despite its power and prestige, the CT5-V averages a manageable $4,866 in maintenance over five years, impressive for a performance-oriented luxury sedan.

The CT5-V benefits from GM’s widespread parts availability and lower labor costs than its European rivals. It’s engineered for longevity, with service-friendly access to key components and robust drivetrain architecture. Owners enjoy sharp handling, a balanced chassis, and a distinctive American personality, all while keeping maintenance costs in check. For those seeking performance that feels as authentic as it is affordable, the CT5-V delivers in spades.

BMW M340i xDrive

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $4,550

BMW

The BMW M340i xDrive represents the ultimate evolution of the sports sedan formula. It combines a silky-smooth inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower, with BMW’s intelligent xDrive system for unshakable confidence in any condition. Its 0–60 mph sprint in 4.1 seconds rivals the previous-generation M3, yet it retains luxury-level comfort and technology. While its maintenance cost of $4,550 over five years is the highest in this group, it’s still modest considering the M340i’s performance pedigree.

2023 BMW M340i xDrive - Rear EndChris Okula/TopSpeed

BMW’s latest B58 engine has proven remarkably reliable compared to older turbocharged powerplants, and its robust design has helped minimize catastrophic issues. Scheduled maintenance costs remain higher due to premium parts and labor rates, but the M340i rewards owners with long-term durability and an exhilarating driving experience. It’s the refined driver’s choice—quick enough for track days, comfortable for commutes, and still cheaper to maintain than a comparable AMG or M3 model.

Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 4MATIC

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $4,240

3/4 view of 2024 Mercedes-AMG C43 drivingMercedes-AMG

The Mercedes-AMG C43 4MATIC occupies a special place in AMG’s lineup, a more approachable alternative to the fire-breathing C63. The latest generation features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with hybrid assistance, generating 402 horsepower. Despite its high-tech powertrain and luxury trimmings, five-year maintenance costs hover around $4,240, which is impressive for a car wearing an AMG badge.

Rear 3/4 action shot of the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43Mercedes-AMG

Mercedes has streamlined maintenance intervals and improved component longevity across its modern lineup, helping keep ownership expenses lower than before. The C43 combines agile handling, impeccable cabin quality, and AWD composure into a package that feels both dynamic and daily-drivable. While service costs remain on the higher end compared to Japanese or Korean competitors, the C43 rewards drivers with an emotional, premium driving experience that justifies its slightly steeper upkeep.

Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 AWD

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $3,626

Low-angle front 3/4 shot of 2024 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 parked on streetInfiniti

Infiniti’s Q50 Red Sport 400 AWD delivers muscular performance with Japanese reliability baked in. Its 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 produces 400 horsepower, giving it genuine sports-sedan credentials. Yet despite its robust performance, maintenance averages only $3,626 over five years, well below typical European competitors in the same class. The Q50 may fly under the radar, but it offers serious value in terms of both performance and long-term ownership.

Rear 3/4 shot of 2024 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 in red parked on streetInfiniti

Infiniti’s use of proven components and straightforward mechanical systems reduces complexity and repair costs. While interior tech can feel dated, the mechanical integrity of the Red Sport remains one of its greatest assets. The AWD system ensures power delivery remains smooth and predictable, and reliability statistics consistently place Infiniti ahead of rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. For drivers craving twin-turbo speed with peace of mind, the Q50 Red Sport 400 AWD is an underappreciated gem.

Audi S4

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $3,165

Audi

The Audi S4 has long defined the sweet spot between performance and luxury, and its latest B9 generation is no exception. With a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 producing 349 horsepower, the S4 rockets from 0–60 mph in about 4.4 seconds, all while maintaining everyday comfort and composure. Thanks to Audi’s legendary Quattro AWD system, traction is relentless, and yet, maintenance costs remain surprisingly manageable at roughly $3,165 over five years.

That number is low for a German performance sedan, largely due to Audi’s shift toward improved reliability and service intervals. Modern S4s share parts across the broader Volkswagen Group, which helps control component costs. While older generations had a reputation for complexity, today’s S4 benefits from years of refinement and better long-term durability. Enthusiasts who crave all-weather performance, a plush interior, and controlled maintenance costs will find the S4 a compelling middle ground between the frugal Subaru WRX and the pricier BMW M340i.

Volvo S60 Polestar Engineered

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $3,105

Black 2019 Volvo S60 T8 Polestar Engineered Front Three QuarterVolvo

Volvo’s S60 Polestar Engineered is a unique offering, a hybrid AWD sports sedan that blends performance, safety, and sustainability. Powered by a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with an electric motor, it delivers 455 combined horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. Despite its advanced plug-in hybrid tech, the S60 Polestar’s maintenance average of $3,105 over five years is surprisingly reasonable, proving that performance hybrids don’t have to be high-maintenance nightmares.

Volvo’s focus on long-term reliability and simplified service schedules has paid off. The hybrid system components, including the battery and electric motor, are designed for longevity, while the combustion engine is shared across Volvo’s lineup, keeping parts costs manageable. Add in Brembo brakes, Öhlins suspension, and Scandinavian minimalism inside, and the S60 Polestar offers high-end thrills without German-level maintenance anxiety. For drivers wanting cutting-edge tech with restrained ownership costs, this Volvo hits the sweet spot.

Audi RS3 Sedan

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $2,237

2025 Audi RS3 front 3/4 shotAudi

The Audi RS3 Sedan may be the smallest car on this list, but it packs the biggest punch. Its legendary 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-five delivers 401 horsepower and one of the most distinctive exhaust notes in the industry. Coupled with Audi’s Quattro AWD system, the RS3 rockets from 0–60 mph in 3.6 seconds, all while keeping five-year maintenance costs at a surprisingly low $2,237.

2025 Audi RS3 Rear AngleAudi

Audi’s meticulous engineering of the RS3 ensures reliability despite its performance credentials. The compact size, shared components with the A3 and S3, and efficient use of proven technology help keep maintenance simple and affordable. For enthusiasts seeking an exotic driving experience without supercar-level upkeep, the RS3 is a dream come true. It’s proof that you can have blistering track performance, year-round usability, and affordable ownership all rolled into one compact powerhouse.

Subaru WRX

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $2,166

Low-angle front 3/4 action shot of 2025 Subaru WRX tS in blue driving on roadSubaru

The Subaru WRX has long been the affordable performance benchmark for drivers who want rally-bred all-wheel-drive confidence without luxury-brand maintenance bills. Powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer-four engine producing 271 horsepower, the WRX delivers outstanding grip through Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system. Its robust drivetrain and rally-inspired suspension translate to immense fun on twisty backroads or snowy highways. But what’s more impressive is that the WRX doesn’t punish owners at the repair shop, averaging just over $2,100 in maintenance over five years.

Side action shot of 2025 Subaru WRX tS in blue driving across desertSubaru

Part of the WRX’s low upkeep cost stems from Subaru’s focus on mechanical simplicity. It may not have the polish of a German sport sedan, but its straightforward engineering means fewer costly components to fail. Add in widely available parts, reasonable labor costs, and a loyal enthusiast community, and it’s clear why the WRX remains one of the most economical AWD sports cars to own. Drivers get year-round capability, plenty of aftermarket potential, and performance that’s easy to maintain and enjoy.

Kia Stinger GT2 AWD

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $2,041

Front 3/4 shot of a 2023 Kia Stinger GT2Kia

The Kia Stinger GT2 AWD might be one of the most underrated sports sedans of the last decade. Its twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V6, producing 368 horsepower, channels power through a responsive eight-speed automatic and a well-tuned AWD system. Despite its luxury appointments and sports-car performance, the Stinger’s five-year maintenance average sits at a surprisingly modest $2,041, making it cheaper to own than some economy crossovers.

Rear action shot of a 2023 Kia Stinger GT2Kia

Kia’s warranty and engineering philosophy are key contributors to this affordability. The brand’s extensive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and simplified mechanical layout make the Stinger less prone to expensive failures. Combined with easily sourced parts and fewer proprietary components than European rivals, it’s a performance sedan that feels premium but behaves pragmatically when it’s time for service. For those seeking grand-touring refinement with Japanese-level reliability, the Stinger GT2 AWD delivers beyond expectations.

Lexus IS AWD

Average Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years: $1,931

Lexus

When it comes to performance with peace of mind, the Lexus IS AWD is unbeatable. The 2025 IS 350 AWD packs a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 delivering 311 horsepower through a six-speed automatic and Lexus’s time-tested AWD system. The best part? Its maintenance average over five years is just $1,931—the lowest on this list. That’s less than many non-performance sedans and makes the IS a standout choice for reliability-conscious drivers who still crave engagement.

Lexus

Lexus’s bulletproof build quality and Toyota-backed parts network make ownership incredibly stress-free. The IS might not be the fastest car in this lineup, but its focus on dependability and refinement makes it the perfect daily-driver sports sedan. The interior quality, driving balance, and quiet operation create an experience that feels far more expensive than its upkeep suggests. In an era of turbocharged complexity, the IS AWD’s simplicity and proven engineering remind enthusiasts that sometimes, reliability is the most rewarding form of performance.