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Do I actually need all-wheel drive?

I was at the dealership for a new car and the salesman kept pushing all-wheel drive on me. I don't know much about the system, and while it sounds enticing, I'm not sure if I even need it. Is it necessary to have?

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Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“All-wheel drive (AWD) is a popular option on newer cars. Whether you need it will depend on your particular situation.
If you live in an area with snowy or wet conditions, AWD might be worth the extra cash. However, you’ll only notice a difference if you also switch to winter tires during winter.
If you live in a warm or dry climate, the advantages of AWD are minimal compared to two-wheel drive options. Unless you’re hitting the track on the weekends, it’s probably not something you need, especially when it can add $3,000 or more to the price of a new car.
Some types of vehicles are more expensive to insure than others. To help you find cheap car insurance, try using the free
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