10 Best Cars for Snow: Top Picks for Winter Driving

When winter weather hits, having a vehicle that can handle snowy and icy conditions is crucial for safety and peace of mind. The best cars for snow combine all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive systems, high ground clearance, advanced safety features, and cold weather amenities to tackle winter driving with confidence. Based on extensive research and expert reviews, here are the top 10 cars that excel in snow performance for 2024.

Rank	Vehicle	Starting MSRP	Key Features
1	Subaru Outback	$28,895	Standard AWD, 8.7-9.5" ground clearance, X-MODE
2	Jeep Grand Cherokee	$41,035	Available 4WD, Selec-Terrain system, up to 11.3" clearance
3	Volvo XC90	$56,000	AWD, 8.8" clearance, advanced safety tech
4	Audi A4 Allroad	$46,800	Quattro AWD, raised suspension, drive select modes
5	Toyota RAV4	$28,275	Available AWD, 8.4-8.6" clearance, Multi-Terrain Select
6	Mazda CX-5	$28,025	Available AWD, G-Vectoring Control Plus, i-ACTIV AWD
7	Honda CR-V	$28,410	Available Real Time AWD, 8.2" clearance, VSA
8	Ford F-150	$33,695	Available 4WD, up to 9.4" clearance, drive modes
9	Subaru Crosstrek	$24,995	Standard AWD, 8.7" clearance, X-MODE
10	Acura RDX	$41,350	SH-AWD, 8.2" clearance, Snow mode

1. Subaru Outback: The Ultimate Snow Warrior

The Subaru Outback consistently ranks as one of the best vehicles for winter driving, and for good reason. Its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides excellent traction in snowy and icy conditions, distributing power to all four wheels for optimal grip . With 8.7 inches of ground clearance (up to 9.5 inches in the Wilderness trim), the Outback can easily navigate through deep snow without getting stuck.

One of the Outback's standout features is X-MODE, which optimizes the AWD system for maximum traction on slippery surfaces. When engaged, X-MODE adjusts the engine output and transmission shift points to reduce wheel spin and enhance control [1]. The Outback also comes equipped with hill descent control, which automatically manages the vehicle's speed on steep, snow-covered descents.

Inside, the Outback offers a range of cold weather comforts, including available heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a windshield wiper de-icer. The spacious interior and large cargo area make it ideal for winter gear and ski trips. With its combination of capability, comfort, and safety features like EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, the Subaru Outback is hard to beat as an all-around winter vehicle [2].

2. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Luxury Meets Winter Capability

For those seeking a more luxurious option that doesn't compromise on winter performance, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is an excellent choice. The Grand Cherokee offers three different 4x4 systems, allowing buyers to choose the level of capability they need [3]. The Quadra-Trac II system, for example, features a two-speed transfer case that can send up to 100% of available torque to the axle with the most traction.

One of the Grand Cherokee's standout features is the Selec-Terrain traction management system, which allows drivers to choose from five different terrain modes, including a dedicated Snow mode. This system adjusts 12 different vehicle systems to optimize performance in various conditions. With up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance in the Trailhawk trim, the Grand Cherokee can handle deep snow with ease.

The Grand Cherokee also excels in terms of comfort and technology. Available features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start ensure a cozy interior on cold winter mornings. Advanced safety systems, including available night vision with pedestrian and animal detection, provide extra peace of mind when driving in challenging winter conditions [5].

3. Volvo XC90: Scandinavian Engineering for Winter Mastery

Hailing from a country known for its harsh winters, it's no surprise that the Volvo XC90 excels in snowy conditions. This luxury SUV comes standard with all-wheel drive and boasts 8.8 inches of ground clearance, providing excellent capability in winter weather [6]. The XC90's AWD system continuously monitors road conditions and can instantly redistribute power between the front and rear wheels for optimal traction.

One of the XC90's unique features is its Off-Road mode, which adjusts the throttle mapping, gearbox shift points, and all-wheel drive system for improved performance on slippery surfaces. The vehicle also comes equipped with hill descent control, which automatically manages speed on steep, snow-covered descents.

In terms of safety, the XC90 is hard to beat. It comes standard with a suite of advanced driver assistance features, including City Safety with Steering Support, which can detect pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals – a particularly useful feature in low-visibility winter conditions. The available heated windshield, heated steering wheel, and heated seats (front and rear) ensure comfort in even the coldest temperatures [8].

4. Audi A4 Allroad: Wagon Versatility with Quattro Prowess

For those who prefer the practicality of a wagon but need serious winter capability, the Audi A4 Allroad is an excellent choice. The Allroad comes standard with Audi's renowned Quattro all-wheel drive system, which provides exceptional traction in snowy and icy conditions [9]. The system can send up to 85% of power to the rear wheels when needed, ensuring optimal grip in challenging situations.

The A4 Allroad features a raised suspension that provides 6.5 inches of ground clearance, allowing it to navigate through moderate snow accumulation. The vehicle also comes equipped with Audi Drive Select, which includes an Off-Road mode that optimizes various vehicle systems for improved performance on slippery surfaces [10].

Inside, the A4 Allroad offers a range of winter-friendly features, including available heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and three-zone automatic climate control. The spacious cargo area and standard roof rails make it easy to transport winter sports equipment. Advanced safety features like Audi pre sense city, which can detect pedestrians and vehicles and initiate emergency braking, provide added confidence when driving in winter conditions [11].

5. Toyota RAV4: Reliable Winter Performance for the Masses

The Toyota RAV4 has long been a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and capable compact SUV, and its winter performance is no exception. While front-wheel drive is standard, the RAV4 offers an advanced all-wheel drive system that can send up to 50% of power to the rear wheels when needed [7]. This system also features dynamic torque vectoring, which can distribute power between the left and right rear wheels for improved handling on slippery surfaces.

One of the RAV4's standout features is its Multi-Terrain Select system, available on AWD models. This system allows drivers to choose from four modes – Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, Snow, and Normal – to optimize traction for different conditions [4]. The RAV4 also boasts up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance in certain trims, allowing it to navigate through deeper snow with ease.

In terms of winter comfort, the RAV4 offers available heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a windshield wiper de-icer. Advanced safety features like Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, provide added peace of mind when driving in challenging winter conditions .

6. Mazda CX-5: Sporty Handling Meets Winter Capability

The Mazda CX-5 stands out in the compact SUV segment for its sporty handling and upscale interior, but it's also a capable performer in winter conditions. While front-wheel drive is standard on lower trims, Mazda's i-ACTIV AWD system is available across the lineup and comes standard on higher trims . This predictive AWD system monitors various factors, including outside temperature and windshield wiper usage, to anticipate when additional traction might be needed.

One of the CX-5's unique features is G-Vectoring Control Plus, which subtly adjusts engine torque and braking forces to improve steering response and stability. This system is particularly beneficial when driving on slippery surfaces, as it helps maintain vehicle control . With 7.5 inches of ground clearance, the CX-5 can handle moderate snow accumulation with confidence.

Inside, the CX-5 offers a range of winter-friendly features, including available heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and automatic climate control. Advanced safety features like Mazda's i-ACTIVSENSE suite, which includes Smart City Brake Support and Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, provide added confidence when driving in challenging winter conditions .

7. Honda CR-V: Versatile and Capable Winter Companion

The Honda CR-V has long been a popular choice in the compact SUV segment, and its winter driving capabilities make it an excellent option for those in snowy climates. While front-wheel drive is standard, Honda's Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is available on all trims . This system can send up to 40% of torque to the rear wheels when needed, providing improved traction on slippery surfaces.

One of the CR-V's standout features is its Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system with Traction Control. This system helps maintain vehicle control on slippery surfaces by reducing engine output and selectively applying the brakes when wheel spin is detected . With 8.2 inches of ground clearance (7.8 inches for hybrid models), the CR-V can navigate through moderate snow accumulation with ease.

In terms of winter comfort, the CR-V offers available heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The spacious interior and large cargo area make it ideal for winter gear and family trips. Advanced safety features like the Honda Sensing suite, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System and Road Departure Mitigation, provide added confidence when driving in challenging winter conditions .

8. Ford F-150: Rugged Winter Workhorse

For those who need a vehicle that can handle heavy-duty winter tasks, the Ford F-150 is an excellent choice. While rear-wheel drive is standard, the F-150 offers two different 4x4 systems: a part-time system with manual shifting between 2H, 4H, and 4L modes, and an automatic 4WD system that can seamlessly transition between two-wheel and four-wheel drive as needed .

One of the F-150's standout features is its Terrain Management System, which includes a dedicated Snow/Wet mode. This mode adjusts the throttle response, transmission shift points, and traction control system to optimize performance on slippery surfaces . With up to 9.4 inches of ground clearance in certain configurations, the F-150 can easily navigate through deep snow.

The F-150 also excels in terms of winter comfort and practicality. Available features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start ensure a cozy interior on cold mornings. The Pro Power Onboard system, which turns the truck into a mobile generator, can be particularly useful during winter power outages. Advanced safety features like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking provide added confidence when driving in challenging winter conditions .

9. Subaru Crosstrek: Compact Winter Warrior

The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact SUV that punches above its weight when it comes to winter driving capabilities. Like its larger sibling, the Outback, the Crosstrek comes standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, providing excellent traction in snowy and icy conditions . With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Crosstrek can easily handle deep snow and unplowed roads.

One of the Crosstrek's key features is X-MODE, which optimizes the AWD system for maximum traction on slippery surfaces. When engaged, X-MODE adjusts the engine output, transmission, and other systems to reduce wheel spin and enhance control . The Crosstrek also comes equipped with hill descent control, which automatically manages the vehicle's speed on steep, snow-covered descents.

Inside, the Crosstrek offers a range of winter-friendly features, including available heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and automatic climate control. The compact size of the Crosstrek makes it easy to maneuver in tight city spaces, while still providing enough cargo room for winter gear and equipment . Advanced safety features like Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology provide added confidence when driving in challenging winter conditions.

10. Acura RDX: Luxury and Performance in Winter Conditions

Rounding out our list is the Acura RDX, a luxury compact SUV that offers impressive winter driving capabilities. The RDX comes standard with Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which can distribute up to 70% of torque to the rear wheels and 100% of that rear torque to either the left or right wheel . This advanced torque vectoring system provides exceptional stability and traction in snowy and icy conditions.

The RDX features a Snow mode as part of its Integrated Dynamics System, which adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points, and AWD settings to optimize performance on slippery surfaces . With 8.2 inches of ground clearance, the RDX can handle moderate snow accumulation with ease.

In terms of winter comfort, the RDX offers available heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote engine start. The spacious interior and configurable cargo area make it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts and family trips . Advanced safety features like AcuraWatch, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System and Road Departure Mitigation, provide added peace of mind when driving in challenging winter conditions.

Key Considerations for Winter Driving

While having a capable vehicle is crucial for winter driving, there are several other factors to consider:

1. Winter Tires: Even the best AWD or 4WD system can't compensate for inadequate tires. Winter tires provide superior traction in cold temperatures and on snow and ice .
2. Ground Clearance: Higher ground clearance allows vehicles to navigate through deeper snow without getting stuck .
3. Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles generally provide better traction in snow, but they may be more difficult to control if they start sliding .
4. Safety Features: Advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warnings can be especially helpful in low-visibility winter conditions .
5. Cold Weather Amenities: Features like remote start, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel can make winter driving more comfortable .

Winter Driving Tips

Even with the best vehicle for snow, it's important to follow these winter driving tips:

1. Slow Down: Reduce your speed and increase following distances on snowy or icy roads .
2. Be Smooth: Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or steering inputs, which can cause your vehicle to lose traction .
3. Plan Ahead: Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, and allow extra time for your journey .
4. Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained, including battery, wipers, and fluids .
5. Carry Emergency Supplies: Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, food, water, and a shovel .

FAQs

1. What's the difference between AWD and 4WD?
   AWD systems typically operate continuously and automatically distribute power to all four wheels, while 4WD systems are usually engaged manually and are designed for more extreme off-road conditions.
2. Are winter tires really necessary if I have an AWD vehicle?
   Yes, winter tires can significantly improve traction and stopping distances in cold temperatures, even on AWD vehicles.
3. How often should I check my tire pressure in winter?
   Check your tire pressure at least once a month, as cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop.
4. Is it better to get a SUV or a sedan for winter driving?
   SUVs generally offer higher ground clearance and more spacious interiors, but many sedans now offer AWD and perform well in winter conditions.
5. How can I improve my winter driving skills?
   Consider taking a winter driving course to learn techniques for handling your vehicle in snowy and icy conditions.