Certainly, winter weather will exist for the vast majority of America’s population. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, over 70% of America’s roads are located in areas with an annual snowfall greater than five inches. For most drivers, buying new transportation requires a consideration of how well it performs in snowy conditions.
Both AWD and 4WD considerably improve the traction with all four wheels in contact, better grip, or pull through slippery roads. Ground clearance is also a key aspect to be considered, in which if higher ground clearance is given, it becomes easier to move through deep snow.
Comfort features can’t be overlooked either. Heated seats, multi-zone climate control, and a heated steering wheel can dramatically make the difference for the driver and passengers in colder months.
Here’s a look at 12 models that help in safe and comfortable travel on snowy roads. Our picks are ranked in ascending order of the model’s U.S. News score. Please note that we update scores in our reviews regularly, as new information and insights come to us. So, the scores here may differ from those you can find elsewhere on our website.
5. Ford Bronco Sport
Our top choice for the best SUV for driving in the snow is the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport. While it is based on the less-capable Escape, the Bronco Sport draws inspiration from its larger Bronco sibling, excelling in winter conditions.
The innovative Goes Over Any Type Of Terrain (G.O.A.T.) drive modes are specifically designed to optimize performance on snowy roads. With up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance, an engine block heater, and standard all-wheel drive, the Bronco Sport instills confidence in drivers as they navigate through challenging winter weather.
The Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV that successfully blends rugged off-road capability with everyday practicality and modern design. Reviving the Bronco nameplate, which has a storied history in American automotive culture, the Bronco Sport offers a versatile platform tailored for adventure enthusiasts while ensuring a comfortable ride for urban and suburban driving.
With its distinct styling, advanced technology, and robust performance, the Bronco Sport has quickly garnered a dedicated following among SUV enthusiasts.
The exterior of the Ford Bronco Sport features a bold, retro-inspired design that pays homage to the original Bronco models while integrating contemporary styling elements. Its boxy shape, high ground clearance, and wide stance contribute to its rugged appearance.
The front fascia is characterized by a prominent grille with the iconic “Bronco” lettering and round headlights, exuding a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a modern aesthetic. The roof rails and available two-tone color options enhance its adventurous spirit, while the various trim levels offer additional customization options, including unique styling packages.
Inside, the Bronco Sport’s cabin is designed with functionality and comfort in mind. High-quality materials and durable finishes are used throughout, making it suitable for both outdoor adventures and daily commutes.
The seating is spacious and supportive, accommodating up to five passengers with ample headroom and legroom. The rear seats can fold flat to expand cargo space, providing versatility for transporting gear or luggage. With 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and a maximum of 65.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down, the Bronco Sport is well-equipped for various hauling needs.
Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system powers the Bronco Sport’s technology features, providing a user-friendly interface with a standard 8-inch touchscreen or an available 12-inch touchscreen on higher trims. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enabling seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music streaming, and hands-free communication.
The Bronco Sport also offers a Wi-Fi hotspot, multiple USB ports, and an optional premium audio system to enhance the driving experience. The dashboard layout is intuitive, with physical knobs and buttons for essential functions, ensuring ease of use while on the move.
Under the hood, the Ford Bronco Sport offers two engine options, catering to different performance needs. The base engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, producing 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque.
This engine delivers respectable performance for daily driving and moderate off-road adventures. For those seeking more power, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available, generating 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and responsive acceleration.
The Bronco Sport’s off-road capabilities are one of its standout features. Built on Ford’s rugged platform, it offers standard four-wheel drive (4WD) across all trims, ensuring optimal traction and stability on various terrains. The available G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes allow drivers to customize the vehicle’s settings based on the driving conditions, such as sand, mud, rocks, and normal.
The Bronco Sport features high ground clearance, short overhangs, and available off-road tires, enabling it to tackle challenging trails and obstacles with confidence. Additionally, the Badlands trim level offers advanced off-road features like a locking rear differential, upgraded suspension, and all-terrain tires for those who take their adventures seriously.
On-road performance is also impressive, with the Bronco Sport delivering a smooth and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing comfort during everyday driving. Steering is precise, and the SUV feels stable and confident around corners. While the Bronco Sport is designed for off-road adventures, it remains practical for city driving, offering good visibility and manageable dimensions for easy maneuverability.
Safety is a priority in the Ford Bronco Sport, and it comes equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance technologies. Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and a rearview camera.
Higher trims offer additional safety features such as adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system. The Bronco Sport has received favorable safety ratings from various agencies, reflecting its commitment to passenger protection.
Fuel economy is a crucial consideration for many buyers, and the Bronco Sport offers competitive ratings in its class. The base 1.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the more powerful 2.0-liter engine offers slightly lower estimates of 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. These figures reflect the Bronco Sport’s balance of performance and efficiency, making it suitable for both adventure trips and daily commutes.
Pricing for the Ford Bronco Sport starts at around $30,000 for the base model, with higher trims and additional options pushing the price closer to $40,000 or more. The Bronco Sport competes with other compact SUVs, such as the Subaru Forester, Jeep Compass, and Toyota RAV4, but its unique blend of rugged capability, stylish design, and advanced technology helps it stand out in a crowded market.
The Ford Bronco Sport is an impressive compact SUV that successfully merges rugged off-road capability with modern comforts and technology. Its distinctive design, spacious interior, and advanced infotainment system make it a compelling choice for buyers seeking versatility in their vehicles.
Whether you’re roaming on city streets or dscovering off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Bronco Sport offers a well-rounded driving experience that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles. With its strong performance, ample cargo space, and suite of safety features, the Bronco Sport is poised to continue its legacy as a capable and stylish SUV for years to come.
4. Audi Q5
Hailing from Germany, the 2024 Audi Q5 stands out with its renowned Quattro AWD system, making it an excellent choice for driving in the snow. Audi also offers this midsize SUV as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant, which provides a practical 23 miles of electric driving for everyday city use—perfect for skipping trips to the gas station on cold, wintry days.
In addition to its snowy-road capabilities, the Q5 comes with standard remote vehicle access, allowing drivers to warm up the cabin before stepping inside, adding a touch of comfort to those frosty mornings.
The Audi Q5 is a luxury compact SUV that combines a sophisticated design, advanced technology, and strong performance, making it a popular choice among discerning buyers.
Known for its refined interior, cutting-edge infotainment system, and impressive driving dynamics, the Q5 embodies Audi’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Whether roaming on city streets or taking on winding country roads, the Q5 delivers a comfortable and engaging driving experience, catering to both families and individuals seeking style and versatility.
From an exterior perspective, the Audi Q5 showcases a sleek and modern design that emphasizes elegance and sportiness. Its bold Singleframe grille, dynamic LED headlights, and sculpted body lines create a striking presence on the road.
The Q5 features a coupe-like silhouette with a gently sloping roofline, enhancing its aerodynamics while maintaining ample interior space. Standard 18-inch wheels provide a solid stance, while larger wheel options add to the Q5’s sporty appeal. The available S line package further enhances the SUV’s aesthetics with unique bumpers, side skirts, and other styling elements.
Inside the Q5, Audi offers a luxurious and well-appointed cabin that prioritizes comfort and convenience. High-quality materials, including leather upholstery, genuine wood accents, and metal trim, create a sophisticated atmosphere. The Q5 can accommodate up to five passengers comfortably, with supportive seats that provide excellent lumbar support for long journeys. The front seats are available with heating, ventilation, and power adjustment, while the rear seats offer generous legroom and headroom, ensuring all passengers can enjoy the ride.
Cargo space in the Audi Q5 is practical, providing 25.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which expands to 53.1 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. This versatility allows drivers to transport a variety of items, from luggage to sports equipment. The standard power liftgate adds convenience, making it easy to load and unload cargo, especially when your hands are full.
The Q5 is equipped with Audi’s MMI infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display that is user-friendly and responsive. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of smartphones for navigation, music streaming, and hands-free communication.
The optional Virtual Cockpit, a fully digital instrument cluster, enhances the driving experience by providing customizable displays of essential information, including navigation directions and media controls. Higher trims offer a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, delivering an immersive audio experience for all passengers. Additionally, multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad ensure that devices remain charged during travel.
Under the hood, the Audi Q5 offers a choice of two engines, catering to different performance needs. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that produces 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine strikes a good balance between power and efficiency, enabling the Q5 to accelerate smoothly and confidently.
For those seeking more performance, the Q5 also offers a 3.0-liter V6 engine with a mild-hybrid system that generates 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, delivering impressive acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. Both engines are paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, providing quick and precise shifts.
The Q5’s driving dynamics are characterized by its confident handling and smooth ride quality. The standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, allowing the Q5 to tackle various weather conditions and terrains with ease.
The available adaptive air suspension further improves ride comfort, enabling drivers to adjust the suspension settings for a more comfortable or sportier driving experience. The Q5’s steering is responsive, providing a sense of connection to the road while remaining easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Safety is a priority in the Audi Q5, and it comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
Higher trims offer additional features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system. The Q5 has consistently earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it a reliable choice for families.
Fuel efficiency in the Audi Q5 is competitive for the luxury compact SUV segment. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the 3.0-liter V6 engine with mild-hybrid technology delivers slightly lower fuel economy, with estimates of 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. These numbers reflect the Q5’s balance of performance and efficiency, making it suitable for both daily commuting and longer road trips.
Pricing for the Audi Q5 starts at around $45,000 for the base model, with higher trims and additional options pushing the price closer to $60,000 or more.
While this pricing positions the Q5 within the luxury compact SUV segment, it competes with rivals such as the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Volvo XC60. Although each competitor has its unique strengths, the Q5’s combination of luxury, technology, and driving dynamics makes it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a premium SUV.
The Audi Q5 stands out in the luxury compact SUV market with its blend of sophisticated design, advanced technology, and strong performance. Its spacious and upscale interior, along with a range of features that cater to both comfort and convenience, make it a suitable option for families and individuals alike.
With its impressive off-road capability, luxurious ride, and comprehensive safety features, the Q5 offers a well-rounded driving experience that excels in both urban and outdoor settings. Whether commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on weekend adventures, the Audi Q5 delivers a premium and versatile driving experience that is hard to beat.
3. Jeep Grand Cherokee
For the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee, you’ll want to opt for the Overland model to get standard 4WD, as the lower-tier models only offer it as an option. Once equipped, the Grand Cherokee provides nearly 11 inches of ground clearance with its available air suspension, making it more than capable of handling snow-covered roads.
Additionally, this SUV can be outfitted with heated rear seats and remote start, ensuring maximum comfort and convenience for both the driver and passengers during cold winter days.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a legendary SUV known for its balance of off-road capability, luxury, and versatility. As one of the most recognized and respected names in the midsize SUV segment, the Grand Cherokee has earned its reputation by offering rugged off-road performance, a refined interior, and a wide range of features that cater to both adventure seekers and urban drivers.
With its various trim levels, the Grand Cherokee appeals to a broad audience, from those looking for a rugged, go-anywhere vehicle to those seeking a more luxurious and comfortable ride.
The exterior design of the Jeep Grand Cherokee reflects its rugged heritage while incorporating modern styling cues that make it look at home in both urban and off-road environments. Its muscular stance, aggressive front grille, and sleek lines give it a bold and commanding presence on the road.
The LED headlights and taillights add a modern touch, while details like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches pay homage to Jeep’s off-road legacy. The Grand Cherokee’s high ground clearance and available all-terrain tires make it clear that this SUV is designed for more than just city driving.
Inside, the Grand Cherokee offers a luxurious and spacious cabin, especially in the higher trim levels. Soft-touch materials, leather upholstery, and wood or metal accents give the interior a premium feel.
The seating is comfortable and supportive, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. Higher trims offer power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats, as well as heated rear seats, ensuring comfort in all weather conditions. The available panoramic sunroof enhances the sense of space and allows natural light to flood the cabin, making it feel even more open and airy.
Cargo space in the Jeep Grand Cherokee is generous, with 37.7 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats and up to 70.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. This makes it easy to carry a wide range of gear, whether you’re loading up for a weekend camping trip or hauling groceries and luggage. The power liftgate (available on higher trims) adds convenience, especially when your hands are full.
In terms of technology, the Grand Cherokee is equipped with Jeep’s Uconnect infotainment system, one of the most user-friendly systems on the market. The system is available with either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen display, depending on the trim level.
Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and satellite radio, while higher trims add a premium sound system, navigation, and wireless device charging.
The system is responsive, with intuitive menus and a clear interface that makes it easy to access various functions. Additionally, the Grand Cherokee offers multiple USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and available rear-seat entertainment to keep passengers connected and entertained on long journeys.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers several engine options, catering to a wide range of driving preferences. The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, whether you’re cruising on the highway or roaming on city streets.
For those who need more power, there’s an available 5.7-liter V8 engine that delivers 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, offering stronger acceleration and towing capability. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive shifts.
For drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency, the Grand Cherokee also offers a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option, known as the Grand Cherokee 4xe. This model combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
The 4xe offers the ability to drive on electric power alone for short distances (around 25 miles), making it ideal for short commutes or urban driving, while still retaining the ability to tackle off-road adventures and long-distance trips.
The Grand Cherokee’s off-road prowess is one of its key selling points, and Jeep has equipped it with a variety of systems to ensure it can handle tough terrain. The available Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II 4×4 systems provide varying levels of off-road capability, allowing drivers to choose the system that best suits their needs.
The Selec-Terrain traction management system allows the driver to adjust the vehicle’s settings based on different terrain types, such as snow, mud, sand, and rocks, optimizing performance for specific conditions. The available air suspension system can raise the vehicle’s ground clearance to 11.3 inches, allowing the Grand Cherokee to clear large obstacles and wade through water up to 24 inches deep.
Despite its off-road capabilities, the Grand Cherokee remains a comfortable and refined vehicle on paved roads. The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth and controlled ride, even over rough pavement. The steering is responsive, and the SUV feels stable and composed around corners.
While the V6 engine offers adequate performance, the V8 engine adds more power for those who need it, and the plug-in hybrid option provides a smooth and quiet driving experience in electric mode. For drivers who want a more performance-oriented SUV, Jeep offers the Grand Cherokee SRT, which is powered by a 6.4-liter V8 engine that produces 475 horsepower and is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds.
There’s also the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, which boasts a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine producing an astonishing 707 horsepower, making it one of the fastest SUVs on the market.
Safety is another area where the Jeep Grand Cherokee excels. It comes equipped with a range of standard and available safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offer additional features such as a 360-degree camera system, parking assist, and a night vision camera.
The Grand Cherokee has consistently earned high safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it a solid choice for families.
Fuel economy in the Jeep Grand Cherokee depends on the engine choice. The base V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the V8 engine sees a drop in fuel efficiency, with estimates of 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.
The 4xe plug-in hybrid offers up to 56 MPGe when using both gas and electric power and around 25 miles of electric-only range. While the V8 engines prioritize performance over fuel efficiency, the 4xe option provides a greener alternative for those who want to reduce their environmental impact.
Pricing for the Jeep Grand Cherokee starts at around $41,000 for the base model, with higher trims such as the Overland, Summit, and Trailhawk adding more luxury features and off-road equipment.
The plug-in hybrid 4xe starts at a higher price point, reflecting its advanced technology and dual powertrain. The high-performance SRT and Trackhawk models command a premium price, with the Trackhawk pushing the price above $90,000. While the Grand Cherokee is positioned as a premium midsize SUV, its range of trims and options allows buyers to choose a model that fits their budget and lifestyle.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to be a top contender in the midsize SUV segment, offering a combination of off-road capability, luxury, and versatility that few competitors can match.
Whether you’re looking for a rugged off-roader, a family-friendly SUV, or a performance powerhouse, the Grand Cherokee has a model to suit your needs. With its range of engine options, advanced technology, and premium interior, the Grand Cherokee delivers a well-rounded driving experience that can tackle anything from daily commutes to off-road adventures.
2. Land Rover Discovery
The 2024 Land Rover Discovery, with its impressive ground clearance of over 11 inches, is an ideal companion for tackling snowy conditions. Known for its robust 4WD system, Land Rover has built a reputation for producing vehicles that can handle the toughest terrains, making the Discovery a clear choice for this list of the best SUVs for driving in the snow.
Beyond its off-road capabilities, the Discovery also offers winter-friendly features like a heated windshield and heated windshield washer nozzles, complementing the more common comforts like heated seats and a heated steering wheel.
The Land Rover Discovery is a premium midsize SUV that balances luxury, off-road capability, and family-friendly practicality. With its refined styling, advanced technology, and rugged performance, the Discovery is a versatile vehicle that can handle both urban driving and challenging terrains.
It offers seating for up to seven passengers, a spacious and upscale interior, and a wide range of features that make it a top choice for families and adventurers alike. As part of Land Rover’s storied lineup, the Discovery continues to embody the brand’s signature combination of rugged off-road prowess and sophisticated comfort.
From the outside, the Land Rover Discovery exudes a distinctive and purposeful design. Its tall, boxy shape hints at its spacious interior, while its smooth lines and contemporary styling ensure it looks at home both in the city and out in the wilderness. The signature clamshell hood, stepped roof, and rearward-sloping roofline create a sense of dynamic motion, even when standing still.
Its LED headlights and taillights are sleek and modern, giving the Discovery a distinctive look on the road. Large windows and a high ground clearance further enhance its off-road-ready appearance, while the available 21-inch wheels add a touch of refinement.
Inside, the Land Rover Discovery’s cabin is a testament to comfort and luxury. High-quality materials such as leather, wood, and metal accents are used throughout, creating a sophisticated environment.
The seating is plush and supportive, with enough space to comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. The second-row seats offer plenty of legroom, and the third row, though slightly tighter, is usable for shorter trips or smaller passengers. The seating configuration is highly versatile, with the option to fold down the second and third rows to create a massive cargo space.
The Discovery’s cargo space is one of its strong suits. With all seats in place, the SUV offers a reasonable amount of storage, but folding down the third row reveals a significant 45 cubic feet of cargo capacity.
When both the second and third rows are folded flat, the Discovery provides an impressive 74.3 cubic feet of space, making it ideal for carrying large items such as camping gear, bicycles, or even furniture. The hands-free power tailgate and split-folding rear seats make loading and unloading cargo easy and convenient.
In terms of technology, the Land Rover Discovery is equipped with Land Rover’s Pivi Pro infotainment system, which is displayed on an 11.4-inch touchscreen. The system is responsive and intuitive, offering features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and satellite navigation. A Meridian sound system is available for audiophiles, providing a premium listening experience.
The Discovery also features a fully digital driver display and a head-up display, which project essential driving information onto the windshield for easy access. Multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and available rear-seat entertainment ensure that passengers stay connected and entertained on long trips.
Under the hood, the Land Rover Discovery offers two engine options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 296 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for daily driving and light off-roading.
For those who seek more power, there’s an available 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid engine that generates 355 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. This engine features a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that enhances efficiency and smooths out the engine’s power delivery. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and precise shifts.
When it comes to performance, the Land Rover Discovery shines as one of the most capable off-road SUVs in its class. It comes standard with Land Rover’s legendary four-wheel-drive system, which includes Terrain Response 2. This system automatically adjusts the vehicle’s settings to suit different driving conditions, such as snow, mud, sand, or rock crawling. Drivers can also manually select the appropriate terrain mode to optimize the vehicle’s performance for specific conditions.
The Discovery’s ground clearance of 8.15 inches can be increased to 11.1 inches with the optional air suspension, allowing the SUV to tackle more rugged and uneven terrain. Additionally, the Discovery boasts an impressive wading depth of 35.4 inches, making it capable of crossing rivers and deep water obstacles.
On paved roads, the Discovery offers a smooth and composed ride. Its suspension system is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections, providing a comfortable driving experience even on rough roads. While it may not have the sporty handling of some competitors, the Discovery’s steering is accurate, and it feels stable around corners.
The optional air suspension system further enhances ride comfort, allowing the Discovery to glide over uneven surfaces. The Discovery strikes a good balance between off-road ruggedness and on-road refinement, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of driving conditions.
Safety is a priority in the Land Rover Discovery, and the SUV is packed with advanced safety features. Standard safety equipment includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.
Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system are available on higher trims. The Discovery also features a driver condition monitor that alerts the driver if signs of drowsiness or fatigue are detected. With these features, the Discovery provides peace of mind whether driving in the city or off the beaten path.
Fuel economy in the Land Rover Discovery varies depending on the engine choice. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine offers an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
The more powerful 3.0-liter inline-six engine, with its mild-hybrid system, achieves slightly lower fuel efficiency, with an estimated 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. While these numbers are not class-leading, they are respectable given the Discovery’s size, weight, and off-road capability.
In terms of pricing, the Land Rover Discovery is positioned as a premium offering in the midsize SUV segment. The base model starts at around $56,600, with higher trims and options pushing the price well into the $70,000 range. This pricing places the Discovery in competition with other luxury midsize SUVs, such as the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Audi Q7.
While it may not offer the same level of interior luxury or on-road performance as some of its competitors, the Discovery’s off-road capability and spacious interior set it apart as a unique choice for drivers who prioritize adventure and practicality.
The Land Rover Discovery is a well-rounded SUV that offers a blend of luxury, space, and off-road prowess. Its rugged capabilities make it a standout choice for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, while its refined interior and advanced technology ensure a comfortable and connected driving experience.
Although its fuel economy and handling may not be as strong as some competitors, the Discovery’s ability to tackle tough terrain and its family-friendly features make it a versatile and capable option for a wide range of drivers. Whether roaming on city streets, mountain trails, or anything in between, the Land Rover Discovery delivers a premium and capable driving experience.
1. Subaru Outback
No list of the best SUVs for driving in the snow would be complete without a Subaru, and the 2025 Outback is a prime example. Whether you consider it a lifted station wagon or an SUV, what truly matters is its performance.
Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical AWD system comes standard, along with a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance, ensuring the Outback can handle even the toughest winter conditions. Add in features like a wiper deicer and water-repellent StarTex upholstery, and it’s clear why the Outback remains a top choice for snow-bound drivers.
The Subaru Outback is a versatile, rugged wagon that combines the off-road capability of an SUV with the driving dynamics and comfort of a car. Known for its practicality, reliability, and standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, the Outback has long been a popular choice for drivers seeking an adventurous, all-weather vehicle without sacrificing comfort and everyday usability.
It offers a spacious interior, a host of advanced safety features, and a range of powertrain options to suit different driving needs. Whether for family road trips, outdoor excursions, or daily commutes, the Outback remains a solid choice in the crossover and wagon market.
The exterior design of the Subaru Outback blends ruggedness with modern styling. Its high ground clearance of 8.7 inches, combined with standard roof rails, underscores its adventure-ready nature, making it a great option for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, biking, or kayaking.
The plastic body cladding along the lower edges of the vehicle helps protect the body from rocks and debris when venturing off the beaten path, while the bold front grille and sleek LED headlights give it a contemporary and robust look. While the Outback is more of a wagon than a traditional SUV, its commanding presence and stance offer the kind of visual appeal one would expect from an off-road-capable vehicle.
Inside, the Outback is spacious, comfortable, and filled with thoughtful touches. The cabin is designed with a focus on practicality, featuring durable materials that can withstand daily wear and tear, while higher trims offer more premium finishes, including leather upholstery, soft-touch materials, and woodgrain accents.
The seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it ideal for long drives or road trips. The elevated driving position provides excellent visibility, while the large windows allow for a panoramic view of the surroundings, enhancing the sense of spaciousness.
The Subaru Outback also offers generous cargo space, with 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a maximum of 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This makes it one of the more spacious options in the wagon or crossover segment, offering plenty of room for luggage, groceries, sports equipment, or camping gear.
The rear seats fold flat with a 60/40 split, providing flexibility in how the space can be used. Additionally, features like the hands-free power liftgate (available on higher trims) make loading and unloading cargo more convenient, especially when your hands are full.
One of the standout features of the Outback is its infotainment system, centered around a vertically oriented touchscreen (available in 7-inch and 11.6-inch sizes depending on the trim level). The system runs Subaru’s Starlink software, which is user-friendly and responsive.
Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports, while higher trims offer a premium Harman Kardon sound system for audiophiles. The large touchscreen interface is visually appealing and easy to navigate, though some drivers may find it takes a little time to get used to controlling most functions via the screen rather than physical buttons.
Under the hood, the Subaru Outback offers two engine options. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 182 horsepower, providing sufficient power for most driving scenarios, including city driving and highway cruising. However, for those seeking more power, the available 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 260 horsepower and significantly improves acceleration and performance, particularly when carrying a full load of passengers or cargo.
Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is smooth and efficient, though some drivers may miss the feel of a traditional automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine is especially beneficial for drivers who plan to tow or regularly drive in hilly terrain, as it offers stronger performance under load.
One of the key selling points of the Outback is its standard all-wheel-drive system, which comes with Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD technology. This system provides excellent traction in various driving conditions, including rain, snow, gravel, and dirt roads, making it a popular choice in regions with harsh winters or for those who enjoy venturing off-road.
In addition, the Outback’s X-Mode feature, which is standard on all trims, further enhances off-road capability by optimizing the engine, transmission, and AWD system for better control on slippery surfaces. The vehicle’s high ground clearance also allows it to tackle more rugged terrain than many crossovers or wagons in its class.
Ride comfort is another strength of the Subaru Outback. The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth and composed ride, even on rough or uneven roads. It handles well for a vehicle of its size, with minimal body roll in corners and a stable, confident feel at highway speeds.
While it may not offer the sporty handling of some crossovers, the Outback excels in comfort and ease of driving, making it an excellent choice for long-distance trips or daily commutes. Its quiet cabin, combined with a smooth ride, ensures that passengers can relax, regardless of the road conditions outside.
Safety is one area where the Outback truly shines, as it comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and lane-departure warning. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and reduce driver fatigue, particularly on long highway drives.
Higher trims offer additional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 180-degree front-view monitor that helps with parking and roaming on tight spaces. The Outback has consistently earned top safety ratings from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), making it one of the safest vehicles in its class.
Fuel efficiency in the Subaru Outback is competitive for its segment. The base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, which is quite good for an AWD vehicle of this size.
The turbocharged engine, while offering more power, sees a slight drop in fuel efficiency, with an estimated 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. However, both engines provide respectable fuel economy considering the Outback’s off-road capabilities and standard AWD system, making it a practical choice for both daily driving and long-distance travel.
Pricing for the Subaru Outback starts at around $29,000 for the base model, which includes a generous list of standard features such as AWD, the EyeSight safety system, and the Starlink infotainment system. Higher trims, like the Premium, Limited, and Touring models, add more luxury and tech features, with prices ranging into the mid-$40,000s for fully loaded versions.
For drivers seeking a more rugged look and added off-road capability, the Outback Wilderness trim offers unique styling elements, a lifted suspension, and enhanced off-road features at a slightly higher price point.
The Subaru Outback is a versatile and well-rounded vehicle that offers a great blend of comfort, practicality, and off-road capability. Its spacious interior, generous cargo space, and standard all-wheel-drive system make it an excellent choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a reliable vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions.
While it may not have the luxury feel of some higher-end crossovers, the Outback’s emphasis on safety, reliability, and rugged performance makes it a standout in its class. Whether you’re roaming on city streets, hitting the highway, or discovering backcountry trails, the Subaru Outback delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience.
