Winter Warriors
Although winter is not behind us, it’s only a matter of time before it’s back again! Nowadays, it’s better bang for your buck to get a car that’s capable of anything Mother Nature will throw at it. With that in mind, here are 20 resilient cars to consider:
1. Subaru Outback
Subaru makes some of the safest cars around, and they’re well known for their standard all-wheel drive. The Outback in particular not only takes advantage of this drive but also has high ground clearance for smooth control.
2. Volvo XC90
While Volvo is known for their semi-luxurious cars, the Scandinavian brand also has safety and engineering in mind. The XC90 has fantastic all-wheel drive, as well as traction control that makes it one of the safest bets for maneuvering icy roads.
3. Honda CR-V
Honda has been around for ages, mostly due to its strong reliability, efficiency, and practical value. This car is accessible for most drivers, and the CR-V comes in a great all-wheel drive version. This drive system even engages automatically, providing great stability.
4. Jeep Wrangler
If you want a more rugged look, then Jeep is an iconic off-road brand. That being said, it comes with 4-wheel drive systems instead of the usual all-wheel, and also benefits from high ground clearance and, of course, off-road tires.
5. Toyota RAV4
Is there anything the RAV4 can’t do? Considered a great family car, super reliable, and now a solid pick for snow-driving, Toyota is coming in strong. This car has torque vectoring and multiple terrain modes, so you can pick the one best suited to your needs.
6. Kia Sportage
Kia is known for its high tech and value, and not to mention, resilient warranties. With that in mind, you’ll want to pick up a Sportage with all-wheel drive, which essentially provides a snow mode of sorts. Plus, it comes with a heated steering wheel!
7. Acura RDX
If you love the engineering of Honda but just want something that feels a bit more luxurious, then Acura is the one for you. This higher-end variant blends comfort and performance, and comes equipped with all-wheel drive, enhanced traction, and a proven record on icy roads.
8. Dacia Duster
You may have not heard of Dacia, but this brand is owned by Renault and is just as budget-friendly. The Duster in particular was made for snowy rural areas, and is still quite accessible at its price.
9. Nissan Pathfinder
Nissan names this car perfectly for traversing snowy terrains and finding an ideal path in any weather. The Pathfinder is equipped with intelligent all-wheel drive and a snow mode that can even make descents feel smooth.
10. Land Rover Defender
You’ve probably noticed how intimidating Land Rovers come across, blending the rugged capabilities of off-roading with the luxury of a higher price tag. Either way, the Defender comes equipped with all-wheel drive and terrain response, making it a reliable ride.
11. Honda Pilot
If you know you want a Honda but the CR-V isn’t the one for you, look no further than the Pilot. This family-style SUV has everything you need for snowy terrains, from all-wheel drive to intelligent traction.
12. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep certainly has an undeniable look and quite a reputation. So if you want to stand out, even in the snow, the Grand Cherokee is equipped with terrain modes and a good height, making it ideal for harsh winters.
13. Ram 1500
Of course, nothing is holding back the horsepower of a Ram. This car looks like it can take on anything, and it essentially can with its 4-wheel drive and durable tires. In fact, it could probably even tow other cars around in the snow.
14. Chevrolet Tahoe
For something a little more refined, consider Chevrolet, which is a company better known for their large trucks and SUVs. The Tahoe in particular has 4-wheel drive, excellent visibility, and a weight distribution making it fit for snow.
15. Nissan Altima
Nissan is known as a budget-friendly and accessible brand that makes solid first-time cars. The Altima, however, is a midsize sedan better suited to winter driving. Its all-wheel drive makes it quite reliable in the snow for those that don’t like the look of SUVs.
16. Subaru Forester
Returning to Subaru, another solid pick is none other than the Forester. It too comes with all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and a special X-MODE. This X-MODE is well suited to driving in the snow, so it’s ready for whatever commute you have in store.
17. Audi A5 Sportback
Even high-end luxury brands like Audi recognize the importance of safe snow travel. The Sportback with quattro all-wheel drive systems is known to be exceptional in the snow, so you really get a bang for your buck.
18. BMW 3 Series
Another luxury brand is BMW, which also pays particular attention to style and driving dynamics. With these things in mind, the xDrive all-wheel driving system provides great traction, but you’ll need winter tires to achieve its full capabilities.
19. Cadillac CT4
Cadillac is General Motors’ luxury brand, and you can instantly recognize the style and bold look of these cars. The CT4 in particular is equipped with all-wheel drive but still retains that sports sedan frame Cadillac is known for.
20. Mazda3 Sedan
Finally, if you want something that feels quite stylish and is fun to drive, then the Mazda3 Sedan is a fantastic pick. You just need the right tires, but then you have an all-wheel driving car with particularly precise handling.
