The Best Cars for Snow

What Challenges Does Winter Driving Pose? 

While you may assume that the biggest challenge of winter driving is dealing with the cold, it’s much more extensive than that. Winter weather brings a whole new set of road conditions that drivers must quickly adapt to to ensure safe travel. 

Snow and ice can drastically reduce traction, making even the simplest maneuvers—like accelerating, braking, and turning—challenging. Even the most experienced drivers may struggle in extreme winter conditions, which is why it’s essential to mentally prepare yourself for the road ahead.  

Apart from traction, the cold itself can stress your car—specifically the charging system and fluids. Additionally, frost and slush can impact visibility, as can the fewer hours of daylight. Lastly, long warmup times and unpredictable weather conditions are icing on the cake. Considering all these factors, it’s easy to see why having a capable winter ride is more than convenient—it’s essential. 

What Makes the Best Car for Winter Driving? 

When you’re shipping for a vehicle that can handle harsh winters, the decision comes down to more than looks, power, or amenities. A winter rig must be capable and confidence-inspiring, and these are the features you should look for. 

Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) 

Boost traction over slippery surfaces with an all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive system. These drive configurations send power to all four wheels, rather than the front or rear two. As a result, cold-weather traction is vastly improved, especially over ice and snow. 

High Ground Clearance

When driving in winter weather, snow banks and icy roads can make it a hassle to travel in a low car. As a vehicle scrapes over snow, ice can accumulate on the suspension, in the wheel wells, and beneath the car, potentially impacting driveability. Instead, pick a vehicle with suitable ground clearance to keep snow from packing beneath the chassis. 

Reliable Heating and Defrost Systems

Even if you’re hunting for a winter beater, make sure the heater and defrost functions are up to par. The heater can significantly ease winter comfort, while a functional defrost system ensures ample visibility in cold, damp weather. 

Fuel Efficiency

As the weather gets colder, you’ll need to warm up your vehicle for longer to reach operating temperature—i.e., when the engine is hot enough to open the thermostat and circulate coolant through the engine block. These longer warmups and extended periods of idling can burn excessive fuel, so it’s best to pick a winter rig that’s relatively fuel efficient—or expect to visit the gas pump more often. 

Ample Cargo Space

Lastly, consider a vehicle with ample cargo space to store all the gear you’ll need over the winter. Items like emergency kits, ice scrapers, tire chains, and even extra blankets can provide relief in extreme weather conditions, especially if you get stuck in the snow. 

Is AWD or 4WD Better in Snow? 

Both all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive systems are far superior in snowy, icy conditions than typical front-wheel drive (FWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD) systems. However, they work a bit differently. 

All-wheel drive systems automatically distribute power to all four wheels as necessary for traction, making them ideal for everyday winter driving. Alternatively, four-wheel drive systems give drivers control over whether all four wheels receive power, or just the rear two. Four-wheel drive is ideal for deep snow and off-road driving—however, driveability typically isn’t as good as that of a conventional all-wheel drive vehicle. For the best of both worlds, find a car with a selectable transfer case that lets drivers choose between up to four drive modes, including two-wheel drive (2WD), automatic all-wheel drive, four-wheel drive low, and four-wheel drive high. 

If you’re curious about how drive configurations compare in detail, check out our two-wheel drive vs four-wheel drive comparison on RealSource—the official blog of our parent company, RealTruck®. 

Best Cars for Snow and Ice Driving

Even with all this information covered, narrowing down your selection of winter-ready vehicles can be challenging. Before you purchase a car, check out the following rides that offer excellent capabilities, safety ratings, ground clearance, and performance. 

Ford Bronco Sport

The Ford Bronco Sport combines Ford’s rugged durability with modern tech, making it a go-to option for adventurers and winter drivers alike. With standard four-wheel drive, various G.O.A.T. (Go Over Any Terrain) modes, and solid ground clearance, the Bronco Sport is built to handle all conditions—from snow-packed trails to icy city streets. 

Subaru WRX

While many view the Subaru WRX as a dedicated road car, the sedan actually got its start in rallying. With standard asymmetrical all-wheel drive and balanced weight distribution, the WRX is more than just a pavement pounder—it’s a winter warrior. In addition to exceptional traction, the WRX boasts sporty suspension for precise handling in all conditions—whether carving a mountain road in the summer or plowing through a snowy driveway in the winter. 

Audi A5 Quattro

You can’t talk about winter drivers without referencing Audi’s legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system. This system, bred to dominate the legendary World Rally Championship (WRC), is renowned as one of the most capable and impressive all-wheel drive systems in the world. 

The Audi A5 Quattro shares this legendary system with much of Audi’s fleet, plus enhanced drive safety features and luxurious heated amenities—from mirrors to the steering wheel and seats. 

Subaru Outback

If you’ve spent much time in Lake Tahoe or the surrounding areas, you’ve become well-versed with the local favorite for winter traction—the Subaru Outback. Boasting high ground clearance, a standard all-wheel drive system, and loads of cargo space, the Subaru Outback is an ideal ride for winter weather. Plus, used models can be had for low prices, while still offering solid reliability and performance.