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15 Best Cars for Driving in Snow

Snow, sleet, or slush—these vehicles are built to handle it.

man driving car on snowy road
Updated Sept. 24, 2024
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Winter driving doesn't have to be a nightmare. The right vehicle can transform your winter commute into a cozy, carefree experience.

With features like all-wheel drive and heated seats, you can enjoy peace of mind and stay warm, no matter the conditions.

These are some of the best vehicles for navigating snowy roads and frigid temperatures that can also help you keep more cash in your wallet if you shop around.

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Subaru Forester

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Brave the elements with the Subaru Forester. Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive system ensure you'll stay in control, even in the deepest snow.

Volvo XC40

Courtesy of Volvo volvo xc40

The Volvo XC40 comes with standard all-wheel drive to help you stay on the road in winter conditions.

Over the years, this model also has received high marks for safety from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Ford Bronco Sport

Courtesy of Ford ford bronco sport

The iconic Ford Bronco has 8.8 inches of ground clearance, making it a great option to get over snow in the winter or take it off-roading in the summer.

The Bronco also has standard 4x4 capabilities to keep you on the road through wintery conditions.

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Jeep Wrangler

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The Jeep Wrangler is well-known for its off-road capabilities, which can help when driving in the snow.

The Wrangler includes 4x4 options and a four-wheel anti-lock braking system. It also features traction control to help the vehicle gain traction on slippery roads.

BMW 3 Series

Courtesy of BMW bmw 3 series

You don’t need an SUV to have a vehicle that works in less-than-ideal weather conditions. A BMW 3 Series sedan will get you through winter weather.

The BMW 3 Series includes all-wheel drive on its xDrive models to help steer you through great conditions and not-so-great conditions.

Mazda CX-50

Courtesy of Mazda mazda cx 50

The Mazda CX-50 is a good option if you’re worried about ground clearance, as it offers a full 8.6 inches.

The SUV also includes standard all-wheel drive, so you can take it into snow with confidence.

Honda CR-V

Courtesy of Honda honda crv

The Honda CR-V's advanced all-wheel drive system delivers exceptional performance, no matter the season. Its intelligent control system automatically adapts to changing road conditions, providing optimal traction and stability.

Nissan Altima

Courtesy of Nissan nissan altima

The Nissan Altima is ready for winter, thanks to its Intelligent AWD system, which automatically adapts to changing road conditions. Its proven safety record, including top IIHS ratings, also makes it a reliable choice.

Audi A4

Courtesy of Audi audi a4

Experience winter in style with the Audi A4. This luxurious sedan offers standard all-wheel drive for confident handling in snowy conditions. 

Upgrade your comfort with optional heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

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Toyota Camry

Courtesy of Toyota toyota camry

Toyota cars have a reputation for reliability, and the Toyota Camry also has the option of all-wheel drive.

Toyota says its all-wheel drive sends 50% of the torque to the rear wheels, which can help you grip the road in less-than-ideal conditions.

Mercedes-Benz GLE

Courtesy of Mercedes Benz mercedes benz

Looking for a luxury SUV for a cold climate? Try the Mercedes-Benz GLE.

The GLE has a ground clearance of around eight inches to get you through snowy conditions. It also gets strong marks from the IIHS for safety.

Kia Seltos

Courtesy of Kia kia seltos

The Kia Seltos features LED headlights that can help you both see better and be seen by other drivers in the snow.

The Seltos also offers the option of all-wheel drive to help you maneuver through treacherous winter conditions.

GMC Sierra 1500

Courtesy of GMC GMC

Pickup trucks can also be good options in the snow, especially with their ground clearance.

The GMC Sierra has a ground clearance of about 8 inches, although the precise number varies depending on the type of Sierra you choose. Automatic emergency braking also is standard.

Acura RDX

Courtesy of Acura acura rdx

The Acura RDX has a ground clearance of 8.2 inches so you’ll be able to clear inches of snow in the winter.

It also has safety features such as four-wheel anti-lock brakes to handle slippery surfaces when you are on the road in bad weather.

Hyundai Tucson

Courtesy of Hyundai hyundai tuscon

The Hyundai Tucson features all-wheel drive and earns good safety ratings from the IIHS. Its LED highlights are also helpful when driving in snow.

Bottom line

Taina Sohlman/Adobe White Tesla Model 3

Snowy weather can be challenging to drive in, but you can find a car that gives you extra power in winter weather conditions.

So, look for one of these vehicles and try to score a great deal when you buy it. Comparing quotes from various companies can also help you save on car insurance and reduce your costs.

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