Best Cars For Snow

‍Best Cars For Snow

Navigating through snowy conditions can be quite a challenge, even for experienced drivers. Choosing the right vehicle that can handle winter weather is paramount for both safety and performance.

From SUVs to sedans, the automotive market offers a variety of options designed to tackle snow and ice. To make the right choice, it's essential to assess the features and capabilities that are most important for your winter driving needs.

Here's a table showcasing the key features of the best cars for snow:

1. Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is a versatile and rugged all-wheel-drive wagon known for its excellent off-road capability, spacious interior, and advanced safety features, making it a top choice for adventure enthusiasts and families alike.

Specifications

Performance

The Subaru Outback's performance in winter conditions is impressive, thanks to the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which greatly enhances traction on slippery surfaces such as snow-covered roads. This AWD system actively distributes torque between the four wheels, helping to reduce wheel slip and maintain control in snowy conditions.

What Sets It Apart

As one of the best cars for snow, the Subaru Outback's 8.7 inches of ground clearance allows it to handle deep snow with ease. The Outback is also equipped with various safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring, assisting drivers during inclement winter weather.

Recent Updates

The Subaru Outback was fully redesigned in 2020, bringing along improved fuel economy, better handling, and upscale interior materials. Most trims of the Outback come with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort on cold winter days.

Benefits

• 8.7 inches of ground clearance for traversing deep snow
• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system for improved traction on slippery surfaces
• Driver assistance features for safer winter driving
• Heated front seats and heated steering wheel for added comfort

Drawbacks

• Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT) may not be responsive
• The fuel economy of the turbocharged engine is lower than the base engine

Who Should Buy It

Consumers who frequently encounter snow driving or live in areas with harsh winter weather should consider the Subaru Outback. Its ground clearance, AWD system, and various safety features make it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and capable vehicle during the winter months.

Where to Buy It

Interested buyers can purchase a new Subaru Outback from Subaru’s official site or find used models through various car-buying websites, including CarGurus, Cars.com, and AutoTrader.

2. Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a versatile and spacious family SUV known for its reliable all-wheel drive system, comfortable interior, and advanced safety features, making it a popular choice for navigating diverse road conditions.

Specifications

The Honda Pilot is a popular small SUV that provides ample space for up to eight passengers and offers impressive performance in various winter conditions.

Key specifications for the Honda Pilot include:

• Engine: 3.5L V6
• Horsepower: 280 hp
• Torque: 262 lb-ft
• Transmission: nine-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Fuel Economy: 20 City / 27 highway mpg (FWD), 19 city / 26 highway mpg (AWD)
• Ground Clearance: 7.3 inches

Performance

In winter weather, the Honda Pilot showcases reliable performance with its powerful V6 engine and the available AWD system.

This AWD system allows the Pilot to maintain traction on snow-covered roads, providing a more confident and secure driving experience. The Pilot also benefits from driver assistance features such as anti-lock brakes aimed at enhancing safety in slippery conditions.

What Sets It Apart

The Honda Pilot offers a few unique features that make it a great choice for dealing with snowy conditions. For starters, it comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a high ground clearance of 7.3 inches.

This elevation allows it to navigate through deep snow without getting stuck. Additionally, the subcompact SUV boasts heated front seats and an optional heated steering wheel, making it comfortable for winter driving.

Recent Updates

The Honda Pilot has undergone several updates in recent years, with the most notable being the addition of more standard safety features. These include forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beams. As of 2023, models feature even more advanced technology, such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems.

Benefits

• Spacious interior with three rows of seating
• Strong V6 engine delivering ample power
• AWD system with selectable drive modes
• Heated front seats and optional heated steering wheel for added comfort
• A comprehensive suite of advanced safety features

Drawbacks

• Lower ground clearance compared to some competitors
• Fuel economy could be better

Who Should Buy It

The Honda Pilot can be an ideal choice for drivers who require a spacious SUV that can tackle winter conditions with confidence and ease. Its combination of AWD capability, advanced safety features, and comfortable interior make it an excellent choice for families living in cold climates or those who encounter frequent snowfall.

Where to Buy It

To purchase a new Honda Pilot or explore other options, visit the official Honda website or a local Honda dealership.

3. Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent, a popular mid-sized SUV, is recognized as one of the best cars for snow. This vehicle combines safety, performance, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for winter driving.

Specifications

• Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-4
• Power: 260 hp @ 5,600 rpm
• Torque: 277 lb-ft @ 2,000-4,800 rpm
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT)
• Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• Fuel Economy: 21 MPG city / 27 MPG highway / 23 MPG combined

Performance

The Subaru Ascent is equipped with a powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, providing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The CVT ensures smooth acceleration, while the symmetrical all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction and control when driving on snow-covered roads or in icy conditions.

What Sets It Apart

The Subaru Ascent derives its superior performance in snow and winter weather mainly from its all-wheel-drive system and impressive ground clearance of nearly 9 inches. This high ground clearance allows it to navigate deep snow and rough terrain with ease.

Recent Updates

Subaru has focused on enhancing safety and convenience in recent updates. The Ascent now comes standard with advanced driver assistance features, like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, ensuring a safer driving experience on challenging winter roads.

Benefits

• Its all-wheel-drive system provides an outstanding grip on snow and ice.
• Almost 9 inches of ground clearance allows it to traverse deep snow
• The Ascent can accommodate up to eight passengers and offers ample cargo space
• Advanced driver assistance features come as standard

Drawbacks

• It may not be the most economical choice for those who prioritize fuel-saving
• Some drivers may prefer a traditional automatic transmission over the CVT

Who Should Buy It

The Subaru Ascent can be ideally suited for families living in regions with harsh winter conditions, as well as those who enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding. This mid-sized SUV provides the confidence, space, and comfort needed for safe and enjoyable winter driving.

Where to Buy It

The Subaru Ascent can be purchased at authorized Subaru dealerships or reliable online car marketplaces. Ensure to consult official Subaru websites and local dealerships for the latest prices, promotions, and financing options available.

4. Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is an outstanding choice for those in search of the best car for snow. This versatile SUV is packed with features designed to keep you safe and comfortable in winter driving conditions.

Specifications

Performance

The Jeep Grand Cherokee features a standard 3.6L V6 engine and an available 5.7L V8 or 6.4L V8 engine, providing ample power to tackle snowy conditions. It's equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with either rear-wheel drive or the advanced Quadra-Drive II all-wheel drive system, which intelligently distributes torque to the wheels for optimal traction in various road conditions.

What Sets It Apart

A standout feature of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is its excellent ground clearance, which ranges between 8.6 and 10.8 inches depending on the trim level. This increased ground clearance ensures that the vehicle can easily navigate through deep snow without getting stuck.

In addition, its advanced driver assistance features like blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning provide added security when traversing slippery, snow-covered roads.

Recent Updates

In recent years, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has received numerous updates and enhancements, including the addition of the off-road-focused Trailhawk trim, offering even more improved capability in winter weather. Some of the notable features of the Trailhawk include additional ground clearance, skid plates, and red tow hooks for potential recovery situations.

Benefits

• Enhanced winter driving capabilities with AWD system and high-ground clearance
• Comfortable interior with heated front seats and heated steering wheel
• Wide range of driver assistance features for added safety on snowy roads
• Impressive towing capacity, ensuring that you can tow your gear year-round

Drawbacks

• Less fuel-efficient when compared to some competitors
• It may be too large for those who prefer a smaller, more maneuverable SUV

Who Should Buy It

The Jeep Grand Cherokee can be an ideal choice for those who live in regions with challenging winter weather conditions and require a dependable, well-equipped vehicle to safely navigate slippery roads. It's also a great option for adventure enthusiasts who need a capable SUV for off-roading, camping, and other outdoor activities throughout the year.

Where to Buy It

To purchase a Jeep Grand Cherokee, visit the official Jeep website. You may also find useful customer reviews and vehicle listings on various online platforms such as CarGurus.

5. Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a popular compact SUV that offers exceptional fuel economy and versatile performance in winter conditions. The CR-V comes standard with front-wheel drive, but an all-wheel drive (AWD) system is available as an option.

Specifications

Let's take a closer look at some key specifications:

• Engine: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder
• Power: 190 horsepower, 179 lb-ft of torque
• Fuel Economy: 28 MPG city, 34 MPG highway (FWD); 27 MPG city, 32 MPG highway (AWD)
• Base Price: $25,350 (LX FWD), $26,850 (LX AWD)

Performance

The CR-V's performance in winter weather is enhanced by its available all-wheel drive system, which distributes power to all four wheels to provide better traction on snow-covered roads.

The CR-V's 8.1 inches of ground clearance allows it to easily navigate through deep snow. Its suspension and steering provide comfort and control, even when driving on slippery surfaces, making it a reliable choice for winter months.

What Sets It Apart

One key feature that sets the Honda CR-V apart for winter driving is its standard driver assistance features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These safety features provide additional peace of mind during winter months when visibility and road conditions can be unpredictable.

Recent Updates

The 2023 Honda CR-V received a new Snow Mode, which enhances the vehicle's performance on slippery surfaces by adjusting the traction control system and throttle response. This feature, along with the CR-V's existing all-wheel drive system, ensures optimal traction on snowy roads.

Benefits

• The Honda CR-V offers excellent fuel economy
• The CR-V comes equipped with a variety of standard safety features
• The available AWD system provides increased traction and control in snow.

Drawbacks

• The base LX model does not come with some desirable winter features
• Those in need of more room may need to consider larger SUVs like the Honda Pilot

Who Should Buy It

The Honda CR-V can be an ideal choice for those who prioritize fuel economy, safety features, and all-wheel drive in a compact SUV for winter driving. Its versatility and performance in snow make it well-suited for anyone who wants a reliable and comfortable vehicle to navigate snowy conditions.

Where to Buy It

The Honda CR-V can be purchased directly from the official Honda website. To find a dealership near you, use the local dealership finder option.

6. Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is one of the best cars for snow, thanks to its impressive combination of luxury and performance in winter weather.

Specifications

Performance

As a luxury sedan, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class offers a smooth and powerful performance in winter driving conditions. Its all-wheel-drive system provides superior traction on snow-covered roads, while the nine-speed automatic transmission ensures a responsive and efficient drive.

The fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway is on par with other all-wheel-drive vehicles in its class.

What Sets It Apart

The E-Class stands out due to its exceptional safety features and premium interior amenities. Equipped with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and adaptive headlights, it ensures a comfortable and secure drive in cold temperatures.

Driver assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring help drivers maintain control in snowy conditions.

Recent Updates

Mercedes has made continuous improvements to the E-Class, with the latest updates focusing on enhanced safety features and infotainment technology. These include the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as more advanced driver assistance systems like automatic high beams and road-ahead detection.

Benefits

• Exceptional all-wheel-drive performance in winter weather
• Luxurious and comfortable interior with heated seats and steering wheel
• Advanced safety features, including adaptive headlights and driver assistance systems
• Good fuel economy for an all-wheel-drive pickup truck

Drawbacks

• Lower ground clearance compared to SUVs and trucks limits performance in deep snow
• Premium price point might not be suitable for all budgets

Who Should Buy It

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class can be an excellent choice for those who prioritize luxury and performance during winter months. Its impressive safety features and comfortable amenities, combined with solid all-wheel-drive capabilities, make it a top choice for those frequently driving in snowy or icy conditions.

Where to Buy It

To purchase a Mercedes-Benz E-Class, visit the Official Mercedes-Benz Website. Just make sure to equip it with the appropriate winter tires to ensure maximum safety and traction during snow driving.

7. Audi Q5

The Audi Q5 is an Upscale SUV that provides exceptional capabilities for winter driving. It offers a combination of performance, comfort, and safety.

Specifications

Here are some key specifications:

• Engine: 2.0-liter TFSI inline-4,
• Horsepower: 261–349 hp,
• Torque: 273–369 lb.-ft,
• Transmission: eight-speed automatic transmission

Performance

The Audi Q5 performs well in winter conditions due in part to its Quattro all-wheel drive system. The system helps maintain traction and control on snow-covered roads, giving drivers confidence when navigating in snowy conditions.

What Sets It Apart

Audi's snow-driving capability is what sets its vehicles apart. Compared to other best cars for snow, the Audi Q5 stands out due to its advanced all-wheel-drive system. In addition to the Quattro AWD system, the Audi A4 Allroad offers an off-road mode that further enhances its snow-driving performance.

Recent Updates

For the 2023 model year, the Audi Q5 continues to offer its stylish design, comfortable and spacious interior, and an array of useful driver assistance features. Its technology package also includes multi-zone climate control, offering increased comfort for passengers during cold temperatures.

Benefits

• AWD for increased traction
• Enhanced safety features
• Comfortable and upscale interior
• Good fuel economy

Drawbacks

• Higher price compared to other winter-capable SUVs
• Limited ground clearance compared to some SUVs

Who Should Buy It

The Audi Q5 can be an excellent choice for drivers who:

• Live in areas with harsh winter weather,
• Value safety and performance in their vehicle,
• Seek a comfortable and luxurious driving experience.

Where to Buy It

The Audi Q5 is available for purchase at the Audi USA website. Various trim levels and packages are available to best suit your preferences and driving needs.

8. Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a popular vehicle pick for many, particularly when it comes to driving in harsh winter conditions. With its various features and recent updates, the RAV4 is designed to handle snow and other challenging environments.

Specifications

Performance

The Toyota RAV4 features a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine with the option for a hybrid system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. With its AWD system, the RAV4 can easily navigate snowy conditions, providing both stability and control. Furthermore, the vehicle's ground clearance of 8.4 inches allows it to traverse deep snow with ease.

What Sets It Apart

The RAV4 stands out due to its combination of fuel efficiency, safety features, and off-road capabilities. The hybrid version, in particular, boasts an impressive fuel economy of 41 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway while still managing to deliver a confident performance on snow-covered roads.

Its driver assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, enhance safety in treacherous driving conditions.

Recent Updates

In 2019, Toyota introduced an all-new generation of the RAV4, with improvements in its design, performance, and features. A recent update includes the addition of a "Snow Mode," which is available on 2019-2023 RAV4 models with AWD, helping to optimize control and stability in snowy environments.

Benefits

• Drivers can save on fuel costs during long winter trips
• The RAV4's AWD system ensures better traction and control on slippery surfaces
• Advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning

Drawbacks

• The "Snow Mode" is not available on all RAV4 models
• The RAV4 can be more expensive than some of its competitors

Who Should Buy It

The Toyota RAV4 can be well-suited for drivers who frequently face challenging winter conditions or those seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient SUV. With its AWD system, safety features, and focus on fuel economy, the RAV4 presents a solid option for individuals and families who need a dependable vehicle for all seasons.

Where to Buy It

The Toyota RAV4 can be purchased directly from the official Toyota website. For those who prefer buying used vehicles, searching through online platforms, such as Cars.com, CarGurus, or AutoTrader, could present more affordable options.

9. Ford Explorer

If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle winter conditions with ease, the Ford Explorer is an excellent option. This midsize SUV is equipped with various features that make it ideal for snow driving, offering a comfortable ride and excellent handling.

Specifications

• Seating capacity: Up to seven passengers
• Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, 3.0L EcoBoost V6, or 3.3L Hybrid
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or Intelligent Four-wheel drive (4WD)
• Ground clearance: 7.9 to 8.3 inches
• Fuel economy: 21-27 mpg city, 28-29 mpg highway

Performance

A variety of engines and drivetrains are available for the Ford Explorer, allowing you to choose the level of power and off-road capability you need. The intelligent 4WD system gives the vehicle exceptional traction on snow-covered roads and slippery surfaces.

With the available Terrain Management System, you can easily switch between different driving modes, such as snow, sand, or mud, to adapt to changing road conditions. The Explorer also comes with advanced driver assistance features, like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, for improved safety during winter driving.

What Sets It Apart

The Ford Explorer sets itself apart from other SUVs with its versatile performance, exceptional ground clearance, and comfortable, upscale interior. It has a spacious cabin with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel to keep you warm during cold temperatures.

The available remote start feature allows you to warm up your vehicle and defrost the windshield before you even step in. Its advanced all-wheel-drive system makes it one of the best cars for snow and slippery roads.

Recent Updates

The 2021 Ford Explorer saw several updates, including the addition of a new XLT Sport Appearance package and the introduction of an off-road-focused Ford Bronco-inspired Timberline trim, which offers even more ground clearance and off-road capability.

Benefits

• Spacious and upscale interior
• Multiple engine and drivetrain options
• Excellent ground clearance
• Advanced driver assistance and safety features
• Comfortable ride with good handling

Drawbacks

• Lower fuel economy compared to some competitors
• Limited cargo space when all seats are in use
• It can be expensive with higher trim levels and optional packages

Who Should Buy It

The Ford Explorer can be an excellent choice for those who want a versatile, comfortable SUV that can handle winter weather with ease. Its spacious cabin, advanced safety features, and impressive ground clearance make it suitable for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who deals with snowy conditions during winter months.

Where to Buy It

If you're interested in purchasing a Ford Explorer, you can visit the Ford’s official website or your local Ford dealership.

It's important to take your time and explore all available options to find the best deal on a Ford Explorer that suits your needs. Test drive different trim levels and engine options to ensure you choose the right configuration for your winter driving needs.

Advanced Snow-Handling Technologies in Modern Cars

In the realm of automotive engineering, one of the most impressive advancements is the development of advanced snow-handling technologies in modern cars. These innovations transform ordinary vehicles into winter warriors capable of navigating snowy terrains with ease and confidence.

Adaptive AWD Systems

Have you ever wondered how some cars seem to glide effortlessly over snow? That's the magic of Adaptive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems.

These smart-systems can sense the road conditions and distribute power between the wheels to ensure maximum grip. It's like having a vigilant co-pilot who's always making sure you stay steady on the road.

Electronic Stability Control

Imagine you're driving on a snowy road, and your new car starts to skid. That's where Electronic Stability Control (ESC) comes in.

It's like a guardian angel for your car, applying brakes to individual rear wheels and helping to steer the car back on course. With ESC, those heart-stopping moments of losing control become a thing of the past.

Anti-Lock Braking Systems

Stopping on ice can be tricky, but Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) have revolutionized this. When you hit the brakes hard, ABS prevents the wheels from locking up and skidding, allowing you to maintain steering control. It's like having an expert skater's control over your car's movements on ice.

Torque Vectoring

Ever heard of torque vectoring? It's a bit technical but super cool. Essentially, it's about directing power to the right tires for better handling and traction. When you're taking a turn on a snowy road, torque vectoring ensures that the outer wheels get more power, giving you a smoother, safer turn. It's like your car knows exactly how to dance elegantly through the snow.

The Future of Snow Driving

The future of driving in snow is looking brighter than ever. With advancements in technology, we're seeing the development of more sophisticated systems that can anticipate road conditions and adapt even more precisely.

Imagine a car that not only knows the current road condition but can also predict what's ahead. It's not just about getting through the snow; it's about mastering it.