Winter driving presents a unique challenge, especially when icy roads and heavy snow accumulate. SUVs equipped with all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) systems are invaluable in these conditions, as they offer enhanced grip and traction.
In addition to capable drivetrains, winter-rated tires and powerful engines are essential for overcoming snowy, muddy, and rough terrains.
This article will highlight some of the top SUVs for tackling winter weather, each offering different features suited for specific needs, from reliability to towing power. Let’s explore the most capable SUVs for snowy conditions.
1. 2025 Subaru Forester: Dependability in Snowy Conditions
The 2025 Subaru Forester stands out as a reliable choice for winter driving. Featuring Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system, it automatically distributes torque between the front and rear axles for maximum grip on slippery surfaces.
Powered by a 2.5-liter flat-four engine, the Forester delivers 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Although it lacks a turbocharged engine, its engine provides enough power for winter driving. The Subaru Forester also comes equipped with Bridgestone tires, designed to handle both mud and snow, ensuring confidence on icy roads.
2. 2025 Kia Telluride: Space and Power for Tough Terrain
The Kia Telluride combines power, space, and winter capability. This three-row SUV is equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, making it a strong performer even on snow-covered roads. It comes with an optional AWD system for superior traction and handling during winter.
Not only does it offer comfort and advanced tech features like heated leather seats and tri-zone climate control, but it also offers solid towing capacity, capable of hauling up to 5,500 lbs, making it ideal for families and adventurous drivers alike.
3. 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Versatility in Extreme Conditions
The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee is an ideal choice for tackling winter’s toughest challenges. Known for its off-road capabilities, it offers a variety of drivetrain configurations, including an optional AWD system, which ensures maximum traction.
The Grand Cherokee features a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This SUV is well-equipped for harsh conditions, with a towing capacity of 6,200 lbs. The addition of an electronically locking limited-slip rear differential ensures that the vehicle maintains excellent grip on snowy or muddy terrain, making it a formidable option for any winter adventure.
4. 2025 Nissan Pathfinder: Modern Features and All-Wheel Drive
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder excels in both safety and performance during winter. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, the Pathfinder produces 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with AWD, providing excellent traction for snowy conditions.
The Rock Creek Edition offers additional off-road features, including a sand/mud mode and a snow mode, further enhancing its winter capability. With a towing capacity of 6,000 lbs, the Pathfinder is a versatile SUV for families and adventurers who need both space and power for their winter excursions.
5. 2025 Chevrolet Traverse: A Spacious Family Hauler
The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse is a family-friendly SUV with ample space, even in the third row. With a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine, it produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. It offers AWD as an option, which enhances stability on icy roads.
The Traverse is capable of towing up to 5,000 lbs, making it a great choice for those who need to haul heavy gear while traveling in winter conditions. Inside, it features advanced tech and safety features to ensure a comfortable ride, even when the weather outside is harsh.
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6. 2025 Ford Bronco: Customization Meets Winter Capability
The 2025 Ford Bronco is a rugged SUV with the flexibility to handle extreme winter conditions. Available in both two- and four-door configurations, it comes with removable doors and roof panels, though these should be kept on during winter.
Powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, the Bronco delivers 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Its 4WD system ensures optimal traction in snowy and off-road conditions.
With features like heated seats and advanced suspension, the Bronco provides a comfortable yet durable driving experience in the toughest of winter environments.
7. 2025 Ford Explorer: A Strong Contender for Winter Roads
The 2025 Ford Explorer is a longstanding favorite for families seeking both comfort and capability. Its powerful twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, ensuring strong performance on snowy roads.
The Explorer’s 4WD system enhances traction, while its high ride height and snow-rated tires provide stability on icy surfaces.
With seating for up to seven passengers, this SUV can accommodate families and provide a smooth ride through winter storms. Additionally, it boasts impressive towing capacity, making it a versatile choice for winter travel.
8. 2025 Honda Pilot: Reliability and Comfort for Families
The 2025 Honda Pilot continues to be a dependable option for families who need an SUV that can handle winter conditions. Equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, the Pilot’s AWD system ensures traction on snow-covered roads.
Its adaptive suspension system allows it to adjust to different terrains, enhancing its capability in snowy weather. With seating for up to eight passengers, the Pilot also offers ample space and comfort. The combination of reliability, power, and winter capability makes the Honda Pilot an excellent choice for families during the colder months.
9. 2025 Volvo XC40: Stylish and Capable in Snow
The 2025 Volvo XC40 stands out for its sleek design and capability in winter conditions. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine and paired with AWD, the XC40 delivers 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for snowy roads.
It also features a 48-volt hybrid system for a performance boost, improving acceleration and efficiency. The XC40’s high ride height allows it to navigate snowy terrains with ease, while its upscale interior offers a luxurious experience. For those seeking an elegant, yet capable, SUV for winter, the Volvo XC40 is a great choice.
10. 2024 Toyota 4Runner: A Rugged SUV Built for Tough Terrain
The Toyota 4Runner is a tried-and-true off-road SUV that excels in harsh winter conditions. With a body-on-frame chassis and a standard 4WD system, the 4Runner is ready for snow, mud, and rough terrain.
The 4Runner’s 3.0-liter V6 engine provides 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, offering ample power for winter driving. The TRD Off-Road model, in particular, comes equipped with features like an electronically locking rear differential and Crawl Control to tackle challenging snow-covered hills.
With its rugged design and impressive capability, the 4Runner is an excellent choice for those who prioritize off-road performance during winter.
Winter driving can be daunting, but with the right SUV, you can tackle snow, ice, and rough terrains with confidence. Whether you’re looking for a reliable compact SUV like the Subaru Forester or a powerful family hauler like the Ford Explorer, there are options to suit every need.
From rugged off-roaders like the Toyota 4Runner to stylish yet capable models like the Volvo XC40, each of these SUVs offers unique advantages for winter driving. Choosing the right SUV can make all the difference in safely handling the toughest winter conditions.
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