As the winter season approaches, you may be looking for the best SUVs for snow to handle the harsh conditions and keep you and your family safe on the roads. With so many options available in the market, finding the perfect SUV can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve compiled a list of the top SUVs for snow based on their performance, reliability, and safety features. So, let’s dive right in and find the perfect SUV for you!
Table of Contents
- Why is an SUV a Great Choice for Snow?
- What Features to Look for in the Best SUVs for Snow?
- Which are the Top SUVs for Snow in 2023?
- How to Maintain Your SUV for Optimal Winter Performance?
Why is an SUV a Great Choice for Snow?
Higher Ground Clearance
SUVs have higher ground clearance compared to sedans, which means they’re less likely to get stuck in snow. This extra height allows them to tackle deep snowdrifts, making them the ideal choice for winter driving.
Better Traction and Control
Most SUVs come with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) systems, providing better traction and control in slippery conditions. These systems distribute power to all wheels, ensuring optimum grip on icy or snow-covered roads.
Spacious and Comfortable
SUVs offer ample space for passengers and cargo, making them the perfect choice for winter road trips. Many SUVs come with heated seats and a dual-zone climate control system, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone in the vehicle.
What Features to Look for in the Best SUVs for Snow?
When searching for the best SUVs for snow, consider the following features:
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): These systems provide better traction on slippery surfaces, making them essential for winter driving.
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): ABS prevents wheels from locking up, allowing you to maintain control during sudden stops on icy roads.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): ESC helps maintain control of your vehicle when it detects a loss of traction, preventing skidding and spin-outs.
- Traction Control System (TCS): TCS works alongside the AWD or 4WD systems to maintain grip and prevent wheel spin.
- Heated Seats and Steering Wheel: These features provide added comfort during cold weather and help reduce fatigue on long drives.
- Winter Tires: High-quality winter tires enhance your SUV’s performance in snow and ice, providing better grip and shorter stopping distances.
Which are the Top SUVs for Snow in 2024?
Here’s a list of the best SUVs for snow based on their performance, safety features, and reliability:
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is one of the best SUVs for snow. It comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, offering excellent traction and stability in snowy conditions. Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance allows it to handle deep snow with ease. With features like X-Mode, which optimizes engine output and transmission ratios for maximum grip, the Forester is a top choice for winter driving.
- Key Features:
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance
- X-Mode with Hill Descent Control
- Available heated front and rear seats
- Available heated steering wheel
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is available with an optional all-wheel drive system, providing excellent traction on slippery roads. Its Multi-Terrain Select system allows drivers to customize their driving experience based on the road conditions, including a Snow mode for better handling in winter weather. The RAV4 also offers a comfortable cabin with available heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, which makes it a great SUV option for winter.
- Key Features:
- Available All-Wheel Drive
- Multi-Terrain Select with Snow mode
- 8.4 inches of ground clearance
- Available heated front seats
- Available heated steering wheel
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V offers an available Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™, delivering optimal traction and control in snowy conditions. The CR-V also boasts 7.8 inches of ground clearance, allowing it to handle deep snow with ease. With available features like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote engine start, the CR-V is a comfortable and very popular SUV choice for snow and winter driving.
- Key Features:
- Available Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™
- 7.8 inches of ground clearance
- Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control
- Available heated front seats
- Available heated steering wheel
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a rugged SUV built for all-weather performance, making it an excellent choice for snow. With multiple available 4×4 systems, including Quadra-Trac II® and Quadra-Drive® II, the Grand Cherokee delivers outstanding traction and control. Its Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System includes a Snow mode for optimal performance on snowy roads.
- Key Features:
- Available 4×4 systems
- Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System with Snow mode
- 8.6 inches of ground clearance
- Available heated front and rear seats
- Available heated steering wheel
Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 is equipped with standard quattro® all-wheel drive, providing exceptional traction and control on snowy roads. With 8.2 inches of ground clearance, the Q5 is one of the best SUVs for navigating deep snow. The Q5 also offers a luxurious cabin with available heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a customizable ambient lighting system for a comfortable winter driving experience.
- Key Features:
- Standard quattro® all-wheel drive
- 8.2 inches of ground clearance
- Audi Drive Select with Off-road mode
- Available heated front seats
- Available heated steering wheel
Volvo XC60
Another great SUV for snow is the The Volvo XC60. This vehicle comes standard with an all-wheel drive system, ensuring excellent traction and control in winter conditions. With 8.5 inches of ground clearance, it can handle deep snow with ease. The XC60 also offers a comfortable and luxurious interior with standard heated front seats, an available heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone climate control system.
- Key Features:
- Standard all-wheel drive
- 8.5 inches of ground clearance
- Hill Descent Control
- Standard heated front seats
- Available heated steering wheel
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer offers an available Intelligent 4WD system, providing optimal traction on snow-covered roads. Its Terrain Management System™ includes a Snow/Sand mode, allowing for better handling in winter conditions. The Explorer also features 7.9 inches of ground clearance and a comfortable cabin with available heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The classic SUV for snowy conditions.
- Key Features:
- Available Intelligent 4WD
- Terrain Management System™ with Snow/Sand mode
- 7.9 inches of ground clearance
- Available heated front seats
- Available heated steering wheel
How to Maintain Your SUV for Optimal Winter Performance?
To ensure your SUV performs at its best during the winter season, follow these maintenance tips:
- Check and Replace Fluids: Make sure to check and replace essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid.
- Inspect Tires: Check your tires for proper inflation, tread depth, and alignment. Consider investing in high-quality winter tires for better performance on snow and ice.
- Test Your Battery: Cold weather can affect your battery’s performance. Test your battery and replace it if necessary to avoid being stranded in the cold.
- Examine Your Brakes: Inspect your brakes for wear and replace brake pads or rotors if needed. Good brakes are crucial for safe winter driving.
- Inspect Your Wiper Blades: Replace worn or damaged wiper blades to ensure proper visibility during snowy or icy conditions.
- Keep Your Gas Tank Full: Maintaining a full gas tank can help prevent the fuel lines from freezing.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your SUV is ready to tackle winter weather and provide a safe and comfortable driving experience for you and your family.
