Winter Warriors: Best Vehicles To Conquer Snow And Ice
With the snowy season around the corner, it is important to make sure that your ride is up to the challenge of driving on snowy roads. Snow and Ice are some of the hardest surfaces to drive on, with the constant threat of sliding off the road and losing traction.
Do remember that safe driving and proper technique are equally if not more important than having a car capable of driving on snow in order to stay safe and navigate the treacherous white roads. That's not to say that the right car can make it easier. Let's see which cars can make traveling on snow easy, safe, and even fun.
Dodge Challenger
The world's first AWD muscle coupe, the Dodge Challenger, offers an impressive solution to power through pesky snow-covered roads. Thanks to its monstrous 6.2 L Hemi V8, it churns out a remarkable 807 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque and comes equipped with all the features you may need to defeat snow and ice.
The Challenger maintains stability and tire traction even in the harshest conditions, thanks to its all-wheel drive, electronic stability control, all-speed traction control, and numerous other safety and driver-assistance features. If you've had it with SUVs and you want a powerful ride for the winter, look no more.
Subaru Outback
Hailed as the best small SUV for snow driving by iSeeCars, the 2023 Subaru Outback comes standard with Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive system, various driving modes (including those designed for snow and mud), heated seats, and advanced driver-assistance tech to ensure a safe and confident ride in winter conditions.
As if it's not enough, the Outback also boasts an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which makes it an excellent choice for tackling snow-covered landscapes. For engine options, you can select between two inline-4 engines: a standard 182 hp 2.5 L and an optional 260 hp turbocharged 2.4 L.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class provides you with comfort and luxury on icy roads like no other vehicle on the market. The E350 4MATIC, which comes with AWD, gives you great traction on snow… and is powered by a 2L inline-4 turbo engine capable of producing up to 255 hp.
The vehicle also has adaptive brake technology, electronic stability control, brake control, active brake assist, and other optional safety features that all combine to provide you with an extremely secure experience. The E-Class also has independent suspension to ensure your ride is as good as possible.
Ford F-150
Somehow, America's favorite pickup truck makes it to almost every list we make here, not just by chance. This is a fine vehicle that can do a lot of jobs, and driving on the snow is just one of them.
Keep in mind that if you are going to take the F-150 to snowy roads, the basic 2WD model is not going to work. You will have to go with the 4WD one. If you have that one, whether it is the EcoBoost engine model or the V8 one, there is no stopping these things.
Toyota Camry
Want to drive seamlessly through snow with great fuel efficiency? The Toyota Camry is the way to go. With a powerful 2487 cc DOHC 16-valve engine linked to an electric motor capable of producing up to 202 hp, the Camry gives you more capability than you may need.
It also has decent ground clearance, especially when compared to rival sedans, and the models that come with All-Wheel Drive give you a perfectly smooth experience in snowy conditions. Moreover, you also have Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ and numerous driver assistance features, including forward collision warning and automated emergency braking.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with its powerful inline-four, V6, and V8 engines, is well-equipped to handle any winter road. The SUV offers 4x4 systems, along with a rear electronic limited-slip differential and 10.9" of ground clearance to let you effortlessly navigate through snowy terrain.
For those who want to take their snow game to a new level, the Grand Cherokee 4xe provides just the right tech (it doesn't mean other trims lack winter capabilities, though). The 4xe comes with the QUADRA-TRAC II full-time 4x4 system that seamlessly powers up the wheels whenever needed to maintain optimum traction on slippery terrains.
Land Rover Defender
One of the most capable off-road machines, the Defender is as good as any car to drive in snow and ice. We are not talking just about a couple of inches of ice on paved roads; this car is good for an Arctic expedition if you want.
With either a petrol or a diesel V6 or V8 engine, one of the best all-wheel drive systems, and winter tires, this car is able to negotiate any type of terrain that you might throw its way. All you need to do is put it in snow-driving mode, and it will not let you down.
Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride is an attractive SUV with one of the highest reliability ratings from J.D. Power, but it is more than just that. The Telluride is great for tackling snow as well. Though it comes with an extra cost for AWD, the investment is totally worth it for the improved traction you get for driving in snow, mud, and other slippery terrains.
Moreover, the combination of heated seats, heated mirrors, advanced driver-assistance features, all-terrain tires, and an excellent 8.4" ground clearance makes this SUV one of the best vehicles for navigating through winter roads.
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima AWD models make driving in the snow a hassle-free experience. Even though the vehicle has a slightly lower 182 hp 178 lb-ft engine, it more than makes up for that with some incredible features for a secure and comfortable ride.
In addition to an Intelligent AWD system that continuously monitors the road to adjust traction, the Altima also has forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and intelligent trace control to let you buzz through the icy tracks effortlessly. You don't need to go to chunky jeeps just yet; the Altima has you covered.
Ford Bronco
Ford has brought back the Bronco after a long time, and it is every bit as capable as you would expect a car with this pedigree to be. The Bronco is a hardcore off-roader, and you need not worry about any kind of terrain or any amount of ice or snow if you choose this one.
Just put it in AWD and Snow/Ice mode, and it will take care of the rest. This can be thought of as Ford's answer to Jeep, a car that can take you anywhere you can fit its four tires on the ground.
Subaru Ascent
Thanks to Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive (SAWD), renowned for its exceptional performance in snowy conditions and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Ascent is hands down one of the best vehicles for winter driving. The SAWD system is designed to optimize traction in rain and snow by accurately gauging acceleration and braking to deliver optimal power to the wheels.
Moreover, the well-balanced layout and even weight distribution of this AWD system also contribute to better road control. To top it all, the Ascent is also equipped with Hill Descent Control for smoother navigation on slippery inclines and declines, as well as an X-Mode for improved traction in snow and mud.
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
If you're looking for a luxury SUV that combines winter capability with appealing aesthetics and a lavish interior, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is the way to go. It has a practical and upscale cabin and comes complete with advanced driver-assistance tech and all winter-ready features.
The best thing about this SUV is the optional 4Matic all-wheel drive system that intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear axles based on the road conditions to improve traction on slippery terrains. The 4Matic AWD is further complemented by Downhill Speed Regulation and other advanced features to ensure optimal performance on icy roads.
Honda Pilot
The Pilot is not exactly the type of car Honda is known for. While most Hondas are economy family cars with small engines and lots of fuel economy, the Pilot is a V6 SUV with AWD and some serious off-road capabilities.
What's special about this car is that unlike the exotic Germans and sophisticated British cars, this is a very reliable and dependable one. You can drive it, snow or not, day in and day out without any failure and will never have to worry about it breaking down. If you are looking for a reliable car for the snow, this is the one.
Mazda Mazda3
The Mazda 3 is another great option if you want to flash through snow and look really good while at it. Thanks to its Skyactiv-G-2.5 L turbo engine, capable of delivering up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, you can easily overpower any type of obstacle in your way.
But the Mazda 3 is more than just muscle and power. It comes with an i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite to protect you from all kinds of hazards and an i-ACTIV AWD to intelligently deliver more power to the wheels with more grip, giving you enhanced control and performance in any given conditions.
Hyundai Kona
The 2023 Hyundai Kona is not just good for everyday riding; it boasts impressive winter capabilities as well… catering to those users who want a reliable winter ride without breaking the bank. Equipped with either a 147 or 195-horsepower four-cylinder engine, this SUV has 6.7 inches of ground clearance, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and various other driver-assistance features.
For snow riding, you can get the optional all-wheel drive with active cornering control for an additional $1,700, which ensures secure navigation on slippery surfaces by intelligently managing power distribution and brake application based on road conditions and driver inputs.
Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek comes snow-ready, thanks to the brand's symmetrical all-wheel drive system, which continuously distributes power to all wheels instead of reacting to wheel slippage. It also has a jaw-dropping 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which matches larger SUVs like the Forester, Outback, and Ascent.
Offering great value for money, the Crosstrek stands out for its affordability as well as its superior fuel efficiency compared to competitors. It's also well-equipped for carrying gear when you're heading to the snow. For those who want to undertake challenging winter rides, the Sport trim offers a Deep Snow/Mud setting to significantly enhance tire traction.
Dodge Charger GT AWD
If you want a high-power drive in frosty conditions, the Dodge Charger GT (AWD model) is the perfect fit for you. Featuring a 3.6 L V6 engine, the Charger GT can deliver up to 300 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque to let you blast through ice and snow.
The AWD variant comes with three electronic stability control modes, including a "full off" mode, which lets you drive through wet or snowy roads with ease. The Charger GT also has ABS, brake control, and traction control to offer utmost stability, no matter what conditions you are traveling in.
Volvo XC40
The 2023 Volvo XC40 comes with a turbocharged 2 L four-cylinder engine that delivers a commendable 247 horsepower and still ensures remarkable mileage. The XC40 is also equipped with a plethora of active safety and driver-assistance features to instill greater assurance while on icy roads.
Speaking of which, the XC40 offers all-wheel-drive as an option, but you also get an engine upgrade… that makes your investment worth every bit. With a practical cabin and a youthful design, the XC40 is one of the best subcompact luxury crossovers that you can get for winter riding.
Audi A4 Allroad
With a power output of 261 horses and a torque output of 273 lb-ft, the Audi A4 Allroad is a powerful luxury wagon perfect for any kind of terrain – as the name suggests. Thanks to its 6.5" ground clearance, you can confidently use it to burst through snow-covered roads.
The most important feature, though, is the Quattro AWD system that gives it the traction required to conquer loose terrain. The A4 Allroad also has a pre-sense front that gives you added security from what lies ahead and an adaptive damping suspension for automatic height adjustment on all kinds of surfaces.
Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos comes equipped with a 146 hp four-cylinder engine as standard. For those seeking enhanced performance, there is an available turbocharged four-cylinder option as well, with an output of 195 horses. Despite being a subcompact SUV, the Seltos offers an impressive amount of headroom and legroom for its passengers.
When it comes to winter driving, the Seltos offers all-wheel drive as standard in the base LX trim…and a number of winter-oriented enhancements (such as heated front seats and remote start) as options. It also offers a host of safety and driver-assistance tech to ensure a safe ride on slippery terrains.
Honda Ridgeline
One of the highest-rated pickup trucks on the market, the Honda Ridgeline also cements itself as an excellent option for winter driving, all thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and a potent V6 engine. The AWD system has selectable modes designed for mud, sand, and snow driving, ensuring optimal traction in every riding condition.
Even though the ground clearance is not the best, the Ridgeline makes up for that with other features. Notably, you have a comfortable cabin with ample space and an extensive array of standard driver-assistance features.
Subaru Forester
Equipped with a 2.5 L flat-four-cylinder engine delivering 182 horsepower and Subaru's trademark symmetrical AWD system, the Forester is another great vehicle for traversing icy stretches. Subaru has so many snow-ready vehicles that it's extremely hard to tell which one's the best.
Unlike the Outback, the Forester looks more like an SUV and has, in fact, more responsive steering in challenging conditions. It also comes with the Deep Snow/Mud mode, has adequate ground clearance, and features all-terrain tires (though not winter tires, but still great for snow). All in all, this compact crossover offers an insane value for its price.
Rivian R1T/S
The Rivian R1T truck and R1S SUV take torque-vectoring to an unprecedented level, thanks to individual motors working at each wheel. These vehicles are equipped with all-terrain tires (distinct from winter tires, yet proficient in handling snow) and an impressive 6.5" of ride height adjustment, allowing for a whopping 14.9" ground clearance.
Even though Rivian lacks a dedicated snow mode (despite offering eight drive modes), it's still a great vehicle for winter riding, thanks to the reasons mentioned above. Moreover, Rivian manages to achieve a remarkably low center of gravity, which significantly enhances ride handling in harsh weather conditions. To top it all, you have an extensive range of 314 miles to take on any icy stretch you want!
Ford Bronco Sport
The Ford Bronco Sport is an exceptional off-roader; there's no denying that. However, this small SUV excels in traversing snow-covered landscapes as well. Equipped with an all-wheel drive and a range of winter-ready features – including a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, heated mirrors, and a rear-camera washer – it's fully prepared for any winter adventure.
The Bronco Sport comes with a variety of engine options, including three- and four-cylinder choices, and allows you to completely personalize your vehicle with different packages and add-ons. To top it all, you also have the Ford Co-Pilot360 and some really attractive looks!
GMC Yukon XL
If you want to go big in the snow, the Yukon is the answer to that. If you want to go in style and comfort, go for the Denali trim of the Yukon, and you will not regret the extra money you spend on it.
This thing is massive, capable, and comfortable. If a winter adventure in a ski town is the plan and you are packing a lot of gear, or if it's just traveling with the family and you need a car that can carry everything and drive effortlessly on snow and ice, this is the one.
Volvo S90
The Volvo S90 base trim features a mild-hybrid powertrain, delivering 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. For those who want more power, a plug-in hybrid alternative with an impressive 455 hp is also there. However, it's not just raw power that makes this luxury sedan suitable for snowy roads.
From all-wheel drive to heated seats and steering wheel, the Volvo S90 comes winter-ready to take you on any adventure. Moreover, the interior is as lavish as you can expect from a luxury sedan… and the cabin is one of the most spacious in class.
Jeep Cherokee
If you want to go on a family vacation with everyone in the home in the snowy season, this is the car you want to take. This SUV has enough space to comfortably seat five adults and carry all their stuff in the back.
Talking of how good this thing does on the road, well, it is a JEEP. These things are made for off-roading and difficult terrain. All you need to do is turn the drive mode selector dial to the Snow/Ice position and let this SUV do its thing. It will get you out of any slippery situation like it's nothing.
Subaru WRX
One of the best brands for driving in snow, Subaru has its symmetrical all-wheel drive (SAWD) system available in every vehicle, and that includes the WRX. The SAWD continuously sends power to all four wheels, giving incredible traction and control even on the iciest roads.
As far as power output is concerned, the WRX comes with a 2.4 L direct-injection engine capable of producing 271 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine has horizontally opposing cylinders arranged in a straight line that ensures a low center of gravity and even weight distribution to further improve ride handling on snow.
Volvo V90 Cross Country
The Volvo V90 Cross Country is a hybrid SUV that delivers up to 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, all thanks to its 2 L four-cylinder engine coupled with a 48V battery. What makes this vehicle perfect for snowy conditions is its incredible 7.9" ground clearance and a very, very powerful All-Wheel Drive system.
The AWD is further backed with off-road mode and hill descent control, ensuring excellent grip and traction in slippery conditions. The V90 Cross Country gives you an extremely comfortable ride even in peak snowy conditions, and the hybrid drivetrain significantly saves your fuel cost.
Acura MDX
If you want to be comfortable and confident while traveling on snow or ice, the MDX is a great vehicle for the job. This compact crossover has enough power and traction to move through mild amounts of snow; don't expect it to be an Arctic rover, though.
As long as you are traveling on paved roads that have snow and ice covering them, the MDX, with its AWD system and 325 hp engine, will be enough. For added safety, keep a set of tire chains with you to get traction in especially bad conditions. However, owing to low ground clearance, you cannot count on the MDX for deep snow off the road.
Toyota RAV4
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid impresses on various fronts and that includes a commendable performance on snowy terrain, all thanks to Toyota's AWD system with "intelligent grip." Operating electronically, this system offers on-demand capability in challenging weather conditions, ensuring superior traction for a more secure and controlled driving experience.
In addition to this all-wheel drive system – which is standard across all trims – the RAV4 Hybrid offers a substantial 8.1 inches of ground clearance, advanced driver-assistance technology, heated mirrors, and an array of comfort features. To top it all, you have a 40 mpg combined fuel economy as well.
GMC Terrain
The Terrain might not be as big as the Yukon, but when it comes to traversing snow, ice, and slush, this vehicle has all that's needed to travel safely and effectively. The Terrain is fitted with a V6 engine, an optional AWD, and all-season tires.
In that configuration, it is capable enough for mild amounts of snow on roads and paved surfaces. But in case you are looking to go on serious snow, you will need to have winter tires. And if it gets even more challenging, just throw a set of chains on this thing, and you will have nothing to worry about.
Honda CR-V
If you want a reliable daily driver that you can confidently take on snow-covered roads as well, the 2023 Honda CR-V can be a great option. It comes with all-wheel drive, a ground clearance of 8.2 inches, heated front seats and mirrors, advanced driver-assistance tech, and a host of additional features designed to ensure seamless navigation through winter conditions.
The CR-V is not just a top contender among snow-worthy SUVs; it offers an attractive package all around with a practical cabin, reliable performance, efficient powertrain, and appealing looks that extend from the interior to the exterior!
Toyota Tacoma
While the American trucks offer luxury, capability, and comfort, these Japanese ones are engineered to last a lifetime. You can go into snow and ice on any of the cars we have seen so far, but on this one, you can keep going literally for the foreseeable future, and it will never break.
The latest Tacoma comes with a twin-turbo V6 and AWD and all the things you need to go off-road or on snow/ ice with ease. You also get drive mode selection to assist you in driving on snow and ice. It might not have the same capability as Jeep, but it will not let you down.
Nissan Armada
Purpose-built for the season, the Nissan Armada is the ultimate winter vehicle. It comes with Nissan's Intelligent 4WD, a robust set of safety features, and plenty of upscale materials, and is motivated by a potent 5.6 L V8 rated for 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque.
The Armada also offers a spacious cargo bay, a roomy cabin with ample space for passengers in both rows and enough ground clearance to traverse any snowy road. If you're seeking a winter-ready vehicle for the family, this is the one for you.
BMW 3 Series xDrive
The BMW 3 Series sports sedans are built for all kinds of tracks, including icy roads. The 3 Series offers automatic emergency braking, dynamic brake control, dynamic traction control, cornering ABS, and multiple other features to make the drive as comfortable and secure as possible.
For greater control in snowy conditions, the 3 Series xDrive models also feature intelligent All-Wheel Drive, which makes powering through icy tracks easier and safer. Moreover, you also get 3-zone auto climate control to set varying temperatures in the cabin. But since the ground clearance is low, don't expect it to drive through deep snow.
Chevrolet Colorado
If you want to haul stuff through snow and want to do it with absolute confidence, the Colorado with the V8 and 4WD option is the truck you need to have. Fit a set of winter tires on this thing, and there's nowhere this truck cannot go. You can even get the Winter package with double-pane glass windows for extra thermal insulation and an advanced heating system to make the interior more cozy.
The engine in this thing is powerful enough to take you anywhere, and the 4WD system makes sure all that power gets to where it's needed to make the truck move.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson emerges as a standout choice not only for winter driving but for every season of the year. With a 187 hp 2.5 L four-cylinder engine as standard and all-wheel drive as an option, this compact crossover can take you on an icy road.
The Tucson surpasses expectations with its upscale interior, a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies, and plenty of driver-assistance features to make you feel secure regardless of the road conditions. Moreover, the cabin is cozy and comfortable, with abundant room for five passengers and their belongings.
Ford Explorer
The Explorer might not be a known vehicle in any one specific area, but it is a nice one overall. You can take it to mild snow and ice; it will drive smoothly and without any problems. This is, however, not the car you would like to bring to serious snow or off-road in the winter.
Other than that, the Explorer is more than enough for regular travel with family and luggage, no matter how snowy it gets. Just keep a set of tire chains with you in case you might need some extra traction.
Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe can accommodate up to eight passengers and still perform exceptionally in winter conditions, thanks to its 4WD system, which greatly enhances the vehicle's maneuverability through snow-covered landscapes. For engine options, you can select between a V6 and a V8, and you won't feel underpowered in any of the two.
The Tahoe uses sensors and driver inputs to determine the optimal driving path while optimizing weight distribution. It also has a substantial 7.9-inch ground clearance and numerous safety features. And if you want more comfort, you can opt for the higher trims with heated seats and a much more cozy interior.