Best Cars and SUVs for Snow and Winter Driving: One minute you may be dealing with light flake on winter roadways and the next you may be dealing with mud, ice and white-out conditions. Selecting the ideal winter-ready car is more crucial than ever if you’re looking for a new vehicle that won’t leave you stressed or stalled.
The good news? In their most recent models, automakers are adding additional AWD systems, snow-smart technology and cold-weather comforts. These are the top vehicles and SUV for snow and winter driving in 2025 whether you’re transporting the family driving in blizzards or just want peace of mind.
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Let’s examine the best options that provide safety, ground clearance, traction, stability and let’s be honest—heated everything.
1. 2026 Subaru Forester — The Snow King of Compact SUVs
If snow had a best friend, it’d be the Subaru Forester.
Its standard Symmetrical AWD, X-Mode and up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance make it almost unfair in winter conditions.
Why it shines in winter:
- Balanced AWD system
- X-Mode for snow, mud & slippery surfaces
- Excellent visibility
- Comfortable, no-nonsense interior
- A top pick for rural and snowy-climate drivers
2. 2026 Toyota RAV4 — America’s Favorite Gets Even Better in Snow
Fully redesigned and now hybrid-only, the new RAV4 packs Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, improved snow mode, and comfortable heated features.
Best winter features:
- Smarter AWD with individual wheel power control
- 8.6″ ground clearance
- Snow and Mud drive modes
- Toasty heated seats & steering wheel
3. 2026 Honda CR-V — Effortless Stability Meets Everyday Comfort
Honda nailed the winter-commuter formula. With its Real Time AWD and smooth driving manners, the CR-V stays stable even when roads don’t.
Winter highlights:
- Snow Mode reduces wheelspin
- AWD available across trims
- Big, glove-friendly controls
- Great for long snowy commutes
4. 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander — Winter Warrior for Big Families
Need space AND winter traction? This 3-row beast handles icy highways, snowy suburbs, and ski-trip getaways with ease.
Why families love it for winter:
- Available Multi-Terrain Select with Snow mode
- Big windows for visibility
- Heated front & rear seats
- Super stable highway handling
5. 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee — Luxury + Snow Muscle
Jeep didn’t get its reputation by accident. With Quadra-Trac, Selec Terrain and optional air suspension the Grand Cherokee bulldozes through deep snow.
What makes it a winter tank:
- Up to 11 inches of ride height
- True 4WD capability
- Heated everything
- Great towing in cold weather
6. 2026 Subaru WRX — For Drivers Who Want Snow… and Fun
Yes you can absolutely enjoy winter driving. The WRX AWD, sharp steering and 271-hp turbo engine make snowy road surprisingly fun.
Best for:
- Performance lovers in snowy regions
- Drivers who want sedan agility + winter confidence
7. 2026 Toyota 4Runner — Legendary Winter Durability
Body-on-frame toughness + modern hybrid options = a winter monster. Even basic trims are winter-ready, but the TRD models go all-out.
Winter superpowers:
- Nearly 10″ of ground clearance
- A-TRAC traction system
- Heated seats in upper trims
- Ultra-reliable in harsh climate
8. 2025 Chevy Tahoe / GMC Yukon — Big, Safe & Snow-Crushing
If you need size, power, and comfort in winter, these two giants deliver. Both come with strong 4WD systems and advanced traction management.
Why winter drivers trust them:
- Optional Air Ride suspension for extra clearance
- Heated seats (most trims)
- Exceptional stability despite their size
- Great for towing in snow
9. 2026 Ford Bronco Sport — Compact, Rugged & Winter-Proof
Think of it as a mini Bronco with real winter chops. G.O.A.T. modes (including Snow/Slippery) keep it sure-footed when roads get sketchy.
Winter-ready perks:
- Standard AWD
- Up to 8.8″ ground clearance
- Easy-to-clean interior
- Heated features in higher trims
Final Thought
Not every AWD car is made equally. Traction, clearance, safety technology and cold-weather comfort are all combined in the greatest winter vehicles. Upgrading to winter tires will always increase your safety whether you’re driving an agile Forester or a tough 4Runner.
This season make wise decisions, remain warm and drive confidently.
FAQs
Q1. Is a hybrid good for winter?
A: Yes Modern hybrid like the RAV4 Hybrid and Grand Highlander Hybrid handle cold weather extremely well.
Q2. What ground clearance is ideal for snowy area?
A: Aim for 8 inches or more if you deal with heavy snow or unplowed road.
Q3. Are sedans bad for snow?
A: Not necessarily AWD sedans like the Subaru WRX can be fantastic with proper tires.
Also Read: 2024 Ford Ranger: The Underdog Truck That Came Out on Top!