When you think of the best vehicles for winter weather, coming up with a list could be very subjective based on what you look for out of a vehicle. Many people form a list and opinions of the best cars for winter driving based on the comfort level(s) they offer, such as heated seats and a heated steering wheel. Whatever you use as a base for the best vehicle for winter is up to you, but at the end of the day it doesn’t matter how many luxuries a vehicle has or how new it is if it has crappy winter tires. The reality is, you can have a brand new car with horrible winter tires that is worse in the winter and deep snow than an older vehicle with really good winter tires.
Across the board, there are specific things to look for in a vehicle to ensure it is suitable for winter driving, which goes beyond having good tires. If you live in the great white North, also known as Canada, you might want to pay attention. If you are setting out to purchase a vehicle for driving in the snow, add the following to your must-haves list: all-wheel-drive (AWD), or four-wheel-drive (front-wheel-drive won’t cut it), good ground clearance, and safety features such as driver assistance and blind spot monitoring.
The Ideal Vehicles
We know you turn to us for advice on vehicles and want us to provide a list of some of the top vehicles for less-than-desirable driving conditions. To be honest, we are flattered that you come to us, and to ensure we don’t disappoint, read on for (what we think) are some of the best to keep you and your family safe and comfortable - but don’t forget about having good tires (either winter ones or all-season tires) and an all-wheel-drive system.
Subaru
If you noticed, we didn’t specify which model of Subaru since they seem to be at the top of many best cars for winter driving lists, whether that’s the Subaru Impreza, Subaru Crosstrek, Subaru Forester, or Subaru Outback; they are all superb for winter driving. The crossover Impreza comes standard with an AWD system and a five-speed manual transmission, which (if you don’t know) can actually be better for the winter because it gives you the ability to downshift instead of using your brakes, ultimately avoiding sliding. On the other hand, the Crosstrek is available in a manual transmission or an automatic, both offering the Subaru Symmetrical AWD. Depending on which engine you pick, you could get up to 182 horsepower, and they all come with features such as emergency braking, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Surely you had to of known that Jeep would end up on our list since they often define off-road driving, and as a result, are great for snowy conditions. If going off-road is your thing, consider upgrading the trim level to the Trailhawk which has the Jeep Quadra-drive II four-wheel-drive system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. Don’t forget about those summer months either. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk has an impressive towing capacity.
Toyota RAV4
Name one list in the automotive industry where Toyota doesn’t appear...we’ll wait. That list doesn’t exist because Toyota makes really really good vehicles, which is why the RAV4 has continuously been one of the top-selling vehicles in Canada. This compact SUV comes with multi-terrain drive modes (great for traction control) and 8.6 inches of ground clearance, making it perfect for snow-covered roads.
Volvo V90
Craving a little more luxury from your vehicle? No problem, not only is the Volvo V90 super luxurious, but it’s also highly recommended for snow. We will be honest; it does come with a higher price tag than the above, but with its mild hybrid powertrain, you can get a little better fuel economy to help offset the purchase price. Although it may lack cargo space, it doesn’t miss on horsepower with its 295-horsepower turbocharged engine. If it’s Volvo you love, but not the price of the V90, there is the option of getting the Volvo V60.
Audi A4
Sticking with the luxury brands, the Audi A4 proves that you don’t need to drive an SUV or pickup truck to remain safe in the winter. This Audi model comes with the Audi Quattro AWD system, which is incredibly luxurious and has a touchscreen, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and heated front seats and rear seats; ideal for winter weather. Not to mention, all new Audi’s come standard with Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto capabilities.
Honda
Again, what would a list be without Honda making an appearance? In fact, some might argue that this automaker is the best; if not the best then one of the best. To that point, it’s no wonder the Honda Pilot (midsize SUV) and Honda CR-V (compact SUV) have landed them a spot on our list of top vehicles for the winter. From a fuel economy standpoint, you might want to keep your eyes on this brand, as these two models both come with a hybrid option. As far as driving during a snowfall, there is no concern, since they have more than enough ground clearance, over 8 inches to be precise.
There you have it, some of our top vehicles for winter driving. We didn’t get into it, but don’t forget about pickup trucks such as Ford, Nissan, etc., as they are always a reliable option. When you read the list above, you may instantly get that sticker price shock because of the brands we listed. We aren’t going to offer up a list and squash your dreams of not being able to have one. That’s why we, FFUN Cars, are here; to sell certified pre-owned vehicles at a fair price, without you having to haggle. The best part (so we’ve been told) is that you don’t even have to leave your house to buy your next vehicle - but you can, it’s up to you. We’ve designed a car buying experience that’s all about you and your convenience. That’s right, we offer a 100% online car buying experience (if you want) or you can come in and see us, or a combination of the two. You can even start your financing online by getting approved in just a few minutes.To keep things rolling, you can browse our entire inventory online as well, then once you decide on a car, enjoy all the benefits that come with FFUN Cars, including 24-hour test drives, 30-day money-back guarantee, and more.
