The Best Cars for Driving in Snow and Why They Excel

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Winter driving can be a challenge, especially if you live in an area where heavy snowfall and icy roads are the norm. Having the right car can make all the difference, providing the stability, control, and comfort you need to navigate slippery surfaces safely. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best cars for driving in the snow, examining the features that make each of them stand out, from all-wheel drive systems to advanced safety features and ground clearance. Let’s dive into what makes these cars ideal for winter conditions and why they could be a great choice for your next vehicle.

1. Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback has long been a favorite among those who frequently drive in snowy or rough conditions. Subaru’s hallmark Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system provides constant power to all four wheels, giving it excellent traction on slippery roads. Combined with its high ground clearance and rugged build, the Outback is an exceptional choice for navigating snow-covered roads and icy terrain.

Why It Excels in Snow

• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Subaru’s AWD system is one of the most reliable on the market, providing balanced power distribution that enhances stability and traction.

• Ground Clearance: With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Outback can handle deeper snow without getting stuck.

• X-Mode with Hill Descent Control: This feature optimizes engine output and braking power to help maintain control on steep, icy inclines.

Price Range

• Starting Price: Around $28,000

Fit

The Subaru Outback is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who lives in areas with frequent winter weather. It’s a spacious, comfortable, and practical option that handles snowy conditions exceptionally well without compromising on comfort.

2. Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV known for its off-road capabilities, but it’s also incredibly adept at handling snowy and icy roads. With a body-on-frame construction and advanced 4WD system, the 4Runner is built to withstand challenging conditions. It also boasts impressive ground clearance, allowing it to plow through deeper snow with ease.

Why It Excels in Snow

• Full-Time 4WD with Active Traction Control: The 4Runner’s 4WD system allows it to adapt to changing road conditions and maintain traction even on slippery surfaces.

• High Ground Clearance: With a clearance of 9.6 inches, the 4Runner can easily navigate snow-covered roads without the risk of getting bogged down.

• Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select: These off-road features are also useful for winter driving, allowing the driver to select different terrain modes, which adjusts the throttle and braking for optimal control on icy roads.

Price Range

• Starting Price: Around $40,000

Fit

The Toyota 4Runner is ideal for adventurous drivers who need a vehicle that can handle snow and off-road conditions equally well. Its rugged design and powerful 4WD system make it a reliable choice for areas with heavy snowfall and challenging winter weather.

3. Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee combines luxury and off-road capability, making it an excellent option for those who want a comfortable winter driving experience without compromising on performance. Equipped with Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II 4x4 system, the Grand Cherokee is built to handle snowy, icy, and muddy conditions with ease.

Why It Excels in Snow

• Quadra-Trac II 4x4 System: This advanced 4WD system detects wheel slippage and automatically shifts torque to the wheel with the most traction, helping maintain control on slippery roads.

• Selec-Terrain Traction Management System: The Grand Cherokee allows drivers to choose specific driving modes like Snow, Sand, and Mud, which adjust the vehicle’s performance to suit the road conditions.

• High Ground Clearance and Adaptive Air Suspension: With up to 10.8 inches of ground clearance, the Grand Cherokee can tackle deep snow and rugged terrain.

Price Range

• Starting Price: Around $42,000

Fit

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is ideal for drivers who want a blend of luxury and rugged capability. It’s a great option for those who frequently drive in snowy conditions but also want a comfortable, feature-rich interior.

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4. Audi Q5

The Audi Q5 is a luxury compact SUV that offers exceptional handling and control, especially in winter conditions. Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system is renowned for its precision and adaptability, making the Q5 an excellent choice for snow-covered roads. It also boasts a comfortable, high-quality interior, adding a layer of luxury to your winter drives.

Why It Excels in Snow

• Quattro All-Wheel Drive: Audi’s Quattro system provides automatic torque distribution to all four wheels, giving the Q5 superior traction and control on icy roads.

• Drive Select System: Audi’s Drive Select allows drivers to adjust settings for traction and stability, making it easier to handle challenging winter conditions.

• Ground Clearance: While the Q5’s 8.2-inch ground clearance isn’t as high as some other SUVs, it’s still sufficient for light to moderate snow, and the Quattro system compensates by enhancing traction.

Price Range

• Starting Price: Around $45,000

Fit

The Audi Q5 is ideal for those who want a premium winter driving experience. It’s a great choice for people who live in cities that get occasional snow but also want a luxury SUV that’s well-suited for daily driving and long-distance travel.

5. Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 is one of the most popular trucks on the market, and it’s a solid choice for winter driving thanks to its powerful 4WD system and robust build. Whether you’re navigating snowy roads or need to haul a heavy load in winter conditions, the F-150 is more than capable. Plus, it offers a variety of engine options, including a fuel-efficient hybrid, to fit your specific needs.

Why It Excels in Snow

• Selectable 4WD Modes: The F-150 comes with selectable 4WD modes that allow the driver to switch between 2WD, 4WD High, and 4WD Low, adapting the vehicle to different snow conditions.

• Snow/Slippery Drive Mode: The F-150 offers a specific drive mode for snow, which adjusts the throttle and braking for optimal control on icy or snowy roads.

• High Ground Clearance: With a ground clearance of up to 9.4 inches, the F-150 can handle moderate snow depths without issue.

Price Range

• Starting Price: Around $35,000

Fit

The Ford F-150 is ideal for people who live in areas with heavy snowfall and need a reliable, powerful vehicle for work or play. It’s a versatile truck that performs well in winter and can be customized with options to suit your driving style and needs.

6. Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 is a midsize luxury SUV known for its safety, comfort, and winter driving capabilities. Volvo’s all-wheel-drive system, combined with advanced driver-assistance features, makes the XC90 a dependable choice for navigating snowy roads. Additionally, its Scandinavian design and premium materials create a cozy, upscale interior for winter commutes.

Why It Excels in Snow

• All-Wheel Drive with Instant Traction: Volvo’s AWD system provides excellent grip on slippery surfaces, allowing for smooth handling in snowy conditions.

• Pilot Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control: These driver-assistance features make winter driving easier and safer by automatically adjusting speed and maintaining a safe following distance on icy roads.

• Heated Features: Heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and available heated wipers are standard on many trims, adding comfort for cold-weather driving.

Price Range

• Starting Price: Around $57,000

Fit

The Volvo XC90 is perfect for families who prioritize safety and comfort. Its all-wheel-drive system and comprehensive safety features make it an ideal choice for winter driving, while its spacious interior offers room for passengers and cargo.

7. Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is a compact SUV that offers a surprising level of performance and handling for its class, thanks in part to Mazda’s predictive all-wheel-drive system. The CX-5 is also known for its premium interior and engaging driving dynamics, making it a great option for those who want a fun yet practical car for winter conditions.

Why It Excels in Snow

• i-ACTIV AWD System: Mazda’s AWD system monitors road conditions and adjusts torque distribution to maintain traction on slippery surfaces.

• G-Vectoring Control Plus: This feature enhances stability by adjusting engine torque and braking force, making the CX-5 easier to control on icy roads.

• Heated Front Seats and Steering Wheel: The CX-5 offers heated seats and a heated steering wheel on higher trims, adding extra comfort for winter driving.

Price Range

• Starting Price: Around $28,000

Fit

The Mazda CX-5 is perfect for drivers who want a compact, fuel-efficient SUV that handles well in snowy conditions. Its lower starting price and excellent AWD system make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on quality or performance.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Car for Winter Driving

When choosing the best car for driving in the snow, it’s essential to consider factors like all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, ground clearance, and safety features that can help improve traction and stability on icy roads. Additionally, features like heated seats, heated steering wheels, and advanced driver-assistance systems can make winter driving more comfortable and less stressful.

Quick Recap of the Best Cars for Snow:

1. Subaru Outback: Reliable AWD and high ground clearance make it an all-around favorite.

2. Toyota 4Runner: Rugged 4WD and off-road features for extreme winter conditions.

3. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Blends luxury with off-road capability.

4. Audi Q5: Premium compact SUV with superior AWD and winter features.

5. Ford F-150: A powerful, versatile truck with selectable 4WD for heavy snow.

6. Volvo XC90: Safe, comfortable, and luxurious with family-friendly features.

7. Mazda CX-5: Affordable and agile, with AWD and premium interior features.

Each of these vehicles brings something unique to the table, so your ideal choice will depend on your needs, budget, and driving style. Whether you’re looking for rugged off-road capability, luxury, or practicality, there’s a winter-ready car out there to suit your needs. Happy (and safe) winter driving!

Drive Safe,

Cars and Stuff Team