Top Cars and SUVs for Snow Driving in 2025

Introduction

Driving in winter can be hard. You may see icy roads, lots of snow, and feel freezing cold. These things can make it less safe and less comfortable to drive. For people who live in places where it snows a lot, choosing the right car or SUV is very important. The best vehicles for snow in 2025 have dependable traction, more space between the road and the bottom of the car, and useful things like heated steering wheels and tires for all weather.

This guide talks about the best cars and SUVs for winter. It can help you pick the right car if you are a new driver or just want to feel safer when you drive in the cold season. You will find out how to pick a car made for snow and also how to get your car ready for winter weather.

Challenges of Driving in Snow

Winter roads need more care and planning. Snow and ice can make the tires lose grip on the road. This means it is easier to slide, and it takes longer for a car to stop. The weather can also make it hard to see, like when snow piles up or sunlight bounces off ice.

Vehicles that are not made for winter often have trouble staying in control or keeping their grip on the road. This is why it’s very important to pick a model that has things like traction aids, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and tools made just for winter. When you have the right gear, you can deal with slippery roads and sudden weather better.

Hazards Faced by Drivers in Snowy Conditions

Snow and ice can hide things you may not see, like black ice, big piles of snow, and things on the road. Even drivers who have been driving for years can get into trouble if the weather changes fast. It can be hard to see when snow covers the headlights or when icy surfaces shine too much light into your eyes.

Cold temperatures can put stress on your car parts. The battery may run down faster. Wipers may freeze or not work as well. Old snow tires or a broken defrost can be more risky. Picking a car with smart headlights, heated mirrors, and safety systems you can trust will make your winter driving much better.

Why Vehicle Choice Affects Winter Safety

Not every vehicle can handle winter driving. If you want to be safe, it is good to pick a car with traction control, AWD or 4WD, and a higher ride height. These things help you keep the car steady, even when the roads are icy.

Modern cars with ABS, electronic stability, and heated parts give a smoother and safer ride. For example, heated back seats and remote start features make life easier and help keep you safe when starting the car on cold days. Cars made for snow handle better, so drivers feel sure and ready when they have to drive in winter.

Choosing the Right Car or SUV for Snow

When you pick a car for winter, look for one that can handle snow. Choose a car with AWD or 4WD. Make sure it has winter tires, too. Cold-weather features like heated seats and a defrost system are also good to have.

It is important for a vehicle to have enough space under it. If it has 8 inches or more, it can get over snow-covered roads better. When you drive in the snow, safety features really help. Things like adaptive headlights, forward warnings, and brakes that work on their own can help you feel safer. They work well when you cannot see much or when the road is icy.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

• All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) helps you get better grip when roads are slippery.
• Winter tires give you better grip when it is freezing outside.
• Traction and stability systems help you keep your car steady when you drive.
• Heated mirrors, windshield wipers, and seats make it easier to see and feel comfortable in the car.

When these features work together, your vehicle is better able to deal with sudden changes in weather. This helps keep you safe.

How Weather and Terrain Impact Driving

Cold weather makes tires less flexible, so it is harder for them to grip on ice. When snow builds up, the tires lose even more grip. The space between your car and the road becomes important if you have to drive on roads that are not yet plowed.

Vehicles that have more space between the road and the bottom of the car, AWD systems, and special winter features like lights that change to help you see can do a lot better in winter. Things like rough roads, piles of snow, and icy spots can be hard for some cars, but cars made for snow can deal with them easily.

Steps for Selecting the Best Snow Vehicle

Identify Your Winter Driving Needs

Start by looking at where you live and how you drive. Do you get a little snow now and then, or is there deep snow often? Will you be going to work every day, or do you only drive sometimes? This can help you know if you need an SUV with high ground, an AWD car that saves gas, or a car that can do many things and handle snow well.

Know the Difference Between AWD and 4WD

• AWD sends power to all the wheels by itself. It is good to use in the city and when the weather is hard to guess.
• 4WD has to be turned on by you. This one is better when you are in the country, in places off the road, or when there is a lot of snow.

Focus on Safety Features

• Traction control to help you keep grip
• Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) to stop the wheels from locking up
• Electronic stability control (ESC) to help you stay on the right path

Check Ground Clearance and Tire Type

• The space between the bottom of your car and the road should be over 8 inches for heavy snow.
• Snow tires with deep lines work better than all-season tires when it is freezing.
• For cold weather, tires need to stay soft and grab the road well. Winter tires can do this best.

Consider Fuel Use and Upkeep Costs

Cars with AWD or 4WD use more gas than others. Think about the ones that try to give power but still save gas. Also, you need to look at the long-term cost of things like heated parts and high-tech sensors. It costs more to keep these cars running. Pick the car that fits your winter needs and how often you drive.

Test in Winter Driving Scenarios

Always take the car out for a test drive in a safe place where there is snow or ice, or use a simulator for these conditions. Try to see how the car moves, turns, and stops. A car that does not slip much and gives the same feel in the steering each time is likely good for driving in winter.

Top Safety Features in 2025 Models

ADAS packages often include:

• Forward crash warning
• Lane-keeping help
• Adaptive cruise help
• Automatic brake systems

Comfort and Visibility Features

Heated seats make it easier to drive when the temperature is very cold. Heated mirrors and windshield wipers help you see better because they stop snow and ice from building up. Now, many 2025 models that are made for winter weather have these features as standard.

Tire Options for Snowy Roads

• All-weather tires work for mild snow but are not as good when there is a lot of snow or ice.
• Snow tires give better grip. The rubber stays soft in the cold and the treads are deeper.
• Use snow tires if you get a lot of ice, slush, or deep snow where you live.

Best Cars for Snow in 2025

Subaru Outback

• AWD standard, with 8.7 inches of space under the car
• Heated front seats and heated steering wheel
• Balance system and automatic emergency braking
• Has shown to work well in snow

Volvo V90 Cross Country

• Strong Scandinavian engineering with AWD
• Heated parts and a roomy inside
• Comfortable and steady winter driving

Audi A4 Allroad

• AWD and higher ground clearance
• Winter tires with driver help features
• Blends comfort, style, and snow handling

Best SUVs for Snow in 2025

Jeep Grand Cherokee

• High ride height and strong off-road skills
• Heated mirrors and adjustable headlights
• Ideal for deep snow and rural driving

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

• Good gas mileage with AWD
• Heated mirrors and new safety features
• Reliable comfort and handling in winter

Kia Telluride

• Spacious interior for families
• AWD with high clearance and balance
• Built with winter comfort and safety

Final Thoughts 

Choosing the right car or SUV for snow is very important. It helps you feel safe, comfortable, and calm in winter. Look for things like AWD or 4WD, snow tires, newer safety features, and things that keep you warm. Cars like the Subaru Outback, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid stand out in 2025. They give a good mix of strong driving and reliability when the winter weather gets tough.

When you know your driving needs and get your car ready with the right features, you make it safer to drive in the snow. This will help you feel more sure about yourself on the road during the snowy season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between AWD and 4WD in snow?

AWD sends power to all wheels by itself. It works well in light or mild snow. 4WD is better when the snow is very deep or the ground is rough. Most of the time, you have to turn 4WD on by hand. Pick the one that fits how tough your winter road conditions are.

Are winter tires necessary even with AWD or 4WD?

Yes. All-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) does help your car stick to the road better. But winter tires are made just for icy roads. They help your car stop much faster and make it safer to drive in snow. So, they are very important to have.

Which type of vehicle is safest for new drivers in snowy areas?

SUVs or sedans that have AWD, stability, and traction can be the best choice. These cars give better grip and safety features. They help new drivers stay safe on icy roads and help you to feel steadier when you drive.

How can I prepare my car or SUV for the winter season?

Look over the drivetrain system, put on snow tires, look at the battery, and swap out windshield wipers for winter ones. Make sure all fluids are good for winter, and try out all heating parts before the first snow comes.

Written by David Chu Updated July 17, 2025 by Albert Fang