Edmunds: The best used all-wheel-drive cars you can get for under $25,000

abcnews.go.com:

All-wheel drive might not be a must-have, but it adds safety, security and peace of mind if you live in a cold climate

All-wheel drive might not be a must-have, but it sure is nice to have if you live in any of the large swaths of America that regularly see snow. Certainly a good set of winter tires will get the job done much of the time, but if you want ultimate peace of mind, there’s no substitute for all-wheel drive. Combine the two and you’re virtually unstoppable.

All-wheel drive was once rare in cars, but over the last 20 years it’s become a much more common feature. Especially in the last 10 years, carmakers have added all-wheel drive to existing models as well as producing new all-wheel-drive models, helping to make this feature as affordable as it is ubiquitous.

Edmunds’ editors recognize lots of people want the confidence of all-wheel drive without buying a bulky SUV. Accordingly, they’ve compiled this list of all-wheel-drive cars that can be found on the used market for less than $25,000.

BMW’s 3 Series sedans and 4 Series coupes are sport-luxury cars recognized for their engaging handling. With the exception of one generation of cars, the 3 Series has offered all-wheel drive in the U.S. since the mid-1980s when it debuted in the 325ix. And 4 Series coupes, introduced for the 2014 model year, have offered all-wheel drive since their inception. The most common 3 Series and 4 Series models on the used market today are contemporary trims fitted with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making in the mid-200-horsepower range.

Look for: If you want more power, you can find BMW’s 3.0-liter six-cylinder good for as much as 320 horsepower in upper trims. But you’ll be trading power for condition or higher miles in