Driving in snowy and icy conditions can be challenging, and having the right car can make all the difference. When selecting a car that will perform well in snow, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure safety, comfort, and performance. Whether you’re looking to buy new or used, this guide will help you understand what to look for in a vehicle for snowy conditions.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Car for Snow
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
One of the most critical features for driving in snow is the type of drivetrain. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): This system automatically distributes power to all four wheels as needed. AWD systems are great for moderate snow conditions and are particularly effective on icy or wet roads. AWD vehicles offer a balance between everyday driving efficiency and winter performance.
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): 4WD systems are typically found in trucks and SUVs. They allow the driver to engage power to all four wheels manually. 4WD vehicles are excellent in heavy snow, off-road conditions, and steep inclines. They provide better traction and control in severe winter weather but tend to be less fuel-efficient.
Which to choose?
If you live in an area with occasional light snow, AWD should suffice. However, if you frequently face heavy snowfall or live in mountainous regions, a 4WD vehicle may be the better choice.
Ground Clearance
The height of your vehicle’s undercarriage from the ground is crucial for snow driving. A higher ground clearance helps the car navigate through deeper snow without getting stuck. Most sedans and compact cars have low ground clearance, which may cause problems in heavy snow, while SUVs and trucks typically offer more height.
- Sedans and compact cars: Generally have a clearance of 5-6 inches, which can be challenging for heavy snow.
- SUVs and trucks: Often come with a ground clearance of 7-10 inches, making them better suited for snowy conditions.
For areas with significant snowfall, an SUV with at least 8 inches of ground clearance would be ideal.
Winter Tires
While having the right drivetrain is important, winter tires are one of the most crucial aspects of snow driving. Standard all-season tires are not as effective in winter weather because they harden at low temperatures and lose traction on snow and ice. Winter tires, however, are made from rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold conditions, and their deeper treads provide better grip.
- Studded winter tires: These are highly effective on icy roads, providing extra traction. However, they may not be legal in some areas due to the potential damage they cause to paved roads.
- Non-studded winter tires: These offer excellent performance in snow and are generally more versatile for different winter conditions.
Regardless of whether your vehicle has AWD or 4WD, installing a good set of winter tires will drastically improve its ability to handle snow.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Modern vehicles come equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which helps prevent skidding. ESC is a computerized system that applies individual brakes to wheels to help maintain control if the car starts to skid or slide. This is especially useful on icy roads or when turning on slippery surfaces.
Check that the car you’re considering has ESC, as this feature can greatly enhance safety in winter driving conditions.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) prevent the wheels from locking up when you apply the brakes on slick roads. This technology helps maintain steering control during sudden stops, reducing the risk of skidding on icy surfaces. ABS is now standard in most modern vehicles, but it’s worth confirming that the car you’re interested in has this feature, especially if you’re considering a used vehicle.
Heated Features
In cold climates, heated features can add both comfort and safety. Consider cars that offer:
- Heated seats: These are a luxury feature that can help you stay warm during cold winter drives.
- Heated steering wheel: This is especially appreciated during frigid temperatures, allowing you to maintain a comfortable grip without wearing thick gloves.
- Heated mirrors: These are crucial for visibility, as they prevent snow and ice from obstructing your view.
Additionally, some vehicles come with heated windshields or wiper blades, which help in clearing snow and ice faster.
Remote Start
A car with a remote start feature allows you to warm the engine and interior before you even step inside. This can be particularly useful in winter, helping to defrost the windshield and get the car ready for driving while you’re still inside your house. This feature is commonly available on many new SUVs and trucks and can sometimes be added as an aftermarket option.
Weight Distribution
The weight of the car, and where it’s distributed, plays a role in how it handles on snow. Heavier vehicles, particularly those with engines over the front or rear axle, often perform better in snowy conditions because they provide more traction. This is why many SUVs and trucks handle snow better than lighter sedans or compact cars.
If you’re buying a rear-wheel drive (RWD) car, consider adding sandbags in the trunk to increase weight over the rear wheels, which can improve traction.
Buying Used? Get a Carfax Report
If you’re considering purchasing a used car for winter driving, getting a Cheap Carfax report is a smart move. This report gives you detailed information on the vehicle’s history, including:
- Whether it has been in any accidents (which could affect the car’s performance in snow).
- Previous ownership records, which may reveal if the car was used in regions prone to heavy snow.
- Service history, which can help you determine if the car has been well-maintained, including regular tire and brake checks (critical for snow driving).
A Carfax report ensures you’re not buying a car with underlying issues that could affect its reliability in challenging winter conditions.
Ideal Car Types for Snow
Based on the factors mentioned above, certain vehicle types tend to perform better in snow than others. Here are some recommendations:
- SUVs: Typically come with AWD or 4WD options, higher ground clearance, and often have winter-friendly features like heated seats and remote start.
- Crossovers: Offer a balance between the size and weight of an SUV with some sedan-like driving characteristics. Many come with AWD and good ground clearance.
- Subaru models (like the Outback or Forester): Subarus are known for their AWD systems and are often considered among the best vehicles for snow driving.
- Trucks: These are excellent for extreme winter weather and deep snow due to their 4WD capabilities and higher ground clearance. However, they are often less fuel-efficient.
- Certain Sedans: Some sedans, especially those with AWD, like the Audi A4 or Volvo S60, can handle light to moderate snow quite well. However, be cautious with ground clearance.
