Winter in Moorhead, Minnesota, is no joke. Sub-zero temperatures, icy roads, and frequent snowstorms make daily commuting a challenge. Choosing the right vehicle isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety and reliability.
In this guide, we’ll explore five cars ideal for winter commuting in Moorhead and five cold-weather performers that excel in the harshest conditions.
Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand what makes a car suitable for winter driving. The most critical feature is all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD).
These systems improve traction on snow and ice, reducing the risk of sliding. Ground clearance is also essential, especially for navigating snowbanks or slushy roads.
Heated seats, steering wheels, and mirrors increase comfort during frigid mornings, while advanced safety technology like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist helps prevent accidents.
Finally, fuel efficiency is worth considering, especially for commuters who drive long distances.
Cars for Winter Commuting in Moorhead
When winter rolls into Moorhead, it doesn’t just snow, it stakes a claim. Icy roads, heavy flakes, and sub-zero mornings turn your daily drive into a real test of machine and mettle.
For suburban commuters, that means your next car can’t just look good on a sunny day, it has to earn its keep when the thermometer drops and the roads turn slick. The right winter commuter blends traction, stability, safety tech, and dependable all-weather capability without turning your daily drive into a stress test.
Whether you’re heading to work, school runs, or running errands across town in a blizzard, these vehicles will help you stay confident and warm, mile after mile.
1. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a top choice for winter commuters thanks to its standard Symmetrical AWD and generous ground clearance.
With X-Mode for enhanced traction in snow, it can handle slick city streets or rural roads alike.
Its wagon design provides ample cargo space for winter gear, and features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel make sub-zero mornings more tolerable.
The Outback is reliable, practical, and versatile ideal for the varied road conditions in Moorhead.
2. Toyota RAV4 AWD
The Toyota RAV4 is another excellent option, offering available AWD, strong fuel efficiency (especially in hybrid versions), and advanced safety features through Toyota Safety Sense.
Heated mirrors, heated seats, and remote start make winter mornings easier, while the RAV4’s higher ground clearance ensures better handling on snowy roads. Its reliability and low maintenance costs make it a smart choice for daily winter commuting.
The Toyota RAV4 delivers a comfortable ride, making it pleasant to drive and offering excellent outward visibility. Around town, the engine feels willing, and passing or merging onto highways is smooth and stress-free. However, those seeking brisk acceleration may be disappointed, the RAV4’s power is ultimately modest.
Our RAV4 took 9.1 seconds to reach 60 mph, which is slower than the class average. Steering is another weak point; it feels vague around center and lacks sufficient feedback and heft, making it easy to misjudge your inputs.
On the upside, the RAV4 Limited’s upgraded all-wheel-drive system includes rear-axle torque vectoring and hill descent control. Combined with respectable ground clearance, these features give the RAV4 above-average off-road capability for a compact SUV.
Driver-assistance technology is well-represented, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking standard across the lineup.
Additional features are available on higher trims. While these systems work reliably, many competitors offer more advanced or comprehensive driver-assist packages as standard or optional.
3. Honda CR-V AWD
The Honda CR-V blends practicality, comfort, and winter readiness. Available AWD systems provide traction in snow, while heated seats and wiper de-icers make cold mornings less challenging.
Its compact SUV size ensures easy maneuverability on narrow streets, and Honda’s reputation for reliability adds peace of mind for winter commuters in Moorhead.
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4. Subaru Impreza AWD
For drivers who prefer a sedan, the Subaru Impreza is a standout. It is one of the few compact sedans with standard AWD, making it an excellent choice for slippery roads.
Compact dimensions make parking and city driving easier, and winter tires can further improve traction and stopping distance, ensuring safe and efficient commutes.
The 2022 Subaru Impreza offers an affordable entry into the compact-car segment, and with standard all-wheel drive, it delivers practicality that many rivals lack. Available in both sedan and hatchback configurations, the Impreza comes with either a five-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
Power comes from a flat-four engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, which leaves acceleration feeling underwhelming regardless of transmission choice. The manual is notchy and imprecise, so we generally recommend the CVT, which provides smoother operation.
Inside, the Impreza offers a practical, well-laid-out cabin with an intuitive infotainment system, and base models equipped with the CVT include a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
For 2022, Subaru made only minor adjustments to the Impreza lineup, introducing a new Sapphire Blue Pearl exterior color and limiting the top-of-the-line Limited trim to the hatchback body style. Pricing ranges from $20,290 for the base model up to $27,890 for the fully equipped Limited.
We recommend the hatchback over the sedan for practicality, with the Premium trim offering the best balance of features and value. It comes with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and an enhanced infotainment system with SiriusXM, an extra USB port, and integrated smartphone apps.
The optional package adds blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross-traffic alert, passive hands-free entry with push-button start, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a sunroof.
Performance-wise, the Impreza feels slow in a class full of peppier rivals. The four-cylinder engine requires a steady foot to keep it in its power band, though the chassis and handling help compensate. Body roll is minimal, the quick steering adds a touch of liveliness, and the ride-handling balance is excellent for a compact car.
Braking is impressive, with a firm pedal and short stopping distances that stand out among its competitors. The 2022 Impreza blends practicality, value, and competent handling, even if it lacks the outright speed and refinement of some rivals.
5. Mazda CX-50 AWD
The Mazda CX-50 provides a balance of sportiness and winter capability. While its ground clearance is slightly lower than larger SUVs, its AWD system ensures stable handling on icy or snow-packed roads.
The interior is well-designed and comfortable, making daily winter commutes more enjoyable, and features like heated seats add extra comfort during frigid mornings.
Mazda has long been known for making vehicles that are a joy to drive, and the CX-50 continues that tradition. Equipped with the optional turbocharged engine, the CX-50 delivers plenty of power, making it one of the quickest small crossovers in its segment.
In our testing, the turbo engine accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.2 seconds, offering a lively, confident performance. While it’s no Miata, the CX-50 handles exceptionally well for a small SUV. The steering is quick and precise, lending a sporty feel, though it does require a bit more effort at low speeds.
Navigating winding streets feels engaging rather than burdensome, and the firm suspension supports the agile handling, even if it sacrifices a touch of ride comfort. Road and wind noise are minimal, though the engine can get a bit loud at full throttle, settling down nicely once cruising on the highway.
Safety and driver assistance are also strong points. The CX-50 comes standard with a robust suite of aids, including blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
During our testing, these systems worked reliably with no false alerts. The adaptive cruise control maintains safe following distances and can bring the vehicle to a complete stop in traffic, making highway driving easier and more relaxing.
Inside, the CX-50 offers a comfortable and thoughtfully laid-out cabin. The front seats are well-padded with supportive side bolsters, though the rear bench is somewhat flat.
While interior volume is slightly less than some competitors, both rows offer sufficient space, a six-foot passenger can sit comfortably behind a six-foot driver.
Entry and exit are straightforward thanks to wide door openings and a driving position that is upright yet low enough for convenience, with ample adjustment for both the seat and steering wheel.
The climate control system is refreshingly straightforward, relying on physical buttons and knobs instead of complex touchscreen menus, making it intuitive and easy to use. Rear passengers also benefit from dedicated air vents, ensuring comfort throughout the cabin.
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Cold-Weather Performers
These vehicles are built to handle more extreme winter conditions, including deep snow, icy highways, and unplowed rural roads.
1. Volvo V60 Cross Country
The Volvo V60 Cross Country combines standard AWD, high ground clearance, and rugged chassis tuning for exceptional winter performance.
Its extensive safety systems, including collision avoidance and lane assistance, make it one of the safest choices for snowy conditions. Heated seats, steering wheel, and mirrors ensure comfort, while its wagon body style provides versatility for winter gear and passengers.
Available in both the standard V60 and the lifted Cross Country version, this wagon is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and comes with either front- or all-wheel drive.
For those seeking extra excitement, the high-performance plug-in hybrid Recharge T8 Polestar delivers electrifying acceleration along with up to 22 miles of electric-only driving.
The V60 and V60 Cross Country face competition from the likes of the Audi A4 Allroad, Mercedes-Benz E-class All-Terrain, and the larger Volvo V90, yet their upscale interiors, extensive standard feature sets, and reasonable base pricing make them standout bargains in the premium wagon segment.
For 2021, Volvo has added several thoughtful updates across the V60 lineup. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, LED headlamps, power-folding auto-dimming mirrors, and additional USB-C ports are now standard.
The Momentum trim receives a new 18-inch wheel design, the R-Design adds glossy black exterior accents, and the Cross Country comes with new Linear Lime wood interior trim. The T8 Polestar hybrid is now branded as the Recharge model, signaling its partial-electric powertrain and aligning it with the all-electric XC40 Recharge SUV.
Pricing for the 2021 V60 ranges from $42,045 for the Momentum trim up to $68,395 for the top-of-the-line Recharge T8 Polestar. We favor the R-Design trim for its sportier character, which includes nappa-leather upholstery, a Harman/Kardon audio system, unique 18-inch wheels, fog lamps, and striking exterior styling.
Most V60 models are front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is standard on the Cross Country and Recharge T8 Polestar trims, adding versatility for varying road conditions.
Under the hood, Volvo offers two engines for the V60 lineup. The T5 models feature a 250-hp turbocharged four-cylinder paired with front-wheel drive (or standard all-wheel drive in the Cross Country), delivering a brisk 0–60 mph time of 6.4 seconds and a responsive, agile feel through corners.
Models equipped with optional Sport suspension and 19-inch wheels have a firmer ride that complements the wagon’s sporty handling.
At the top end, the Recharge T8 Polestar combines a turbo- and supercharged four-cylinder with electric motors and all-wheel drive, generating 415 horsepower and rocketing to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
Enthusiasts will also appreciate the T8’s manually adjustable suspension, which allows drivers to fine-tune ride quality to their preference, blending performance with everyday practicality.
2. Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride is a larger SUV with available AWD and substantial ground clearance, making it ideal for families navigating snowy highways or rural roads.
Heated seats, heated steering wheel, and modern safety technologies enhance both comfort and security. With its spacious interior, it can comfortably transport passengers and cargo during winter commutes or weekend adventures.
The Kia Telluride delivers a satisfying driving experience, balancing comfort and capability for families and long trips alike. Its V6 engine responds well to throttle inputs, though acceleration is fairly average for a three-row SUV. Braking performance is strong, providing both quick stops and smooth, controlled deceleration when needed.
Steering is light and effortless at low speeds, such as in parking lots, yet it gains natural weight in corners, giving the driver a reassuring sense of control.
While the transmission can feel slightly hesitant when upshifting under heavy acceleration or searching for the right gear on inclines, these quirks are minor and quickly fade in importance once you experience the Telluride’s composed handling.
The suspension is well-tuned across all trims, including the off-road-oriented X-Pro models, ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride even over uneven surfaces.
Visibility in the Telluride is excellent for a large SUV, and the available surround-view camera system further enhances situational awareness.
Complementing this, the adaptive safety suite performs reliably, with features like adaptive cruise control capable of making lane changes automatically when prompted, adding both convenience and peace of mind for drivers.
3. Volvo XC90
For luxury and winter capability, the Volvo XC90 stands out. Its AWD system, premium safety features, and heated comfort amenities make it suitable for long highway commutes and harsh winter weather.
Its high ground clearance and robust build make it a confident performer on snow-covered roads, while the refined interior ensures a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
The 2021 Volvo XC90 is a three-row SUV that pairs spaciousness with Scandinavian style, making it an ideal choice for families who value both comfort and luxury.
As Volvo’s largest model, the XC90 seats seven passengers and offers more cargo space than its smaller sibling, the XC60, making it well-suited for road trips, errands, and everyday family duties.
All XC90 models come equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which might seem unusual in a segment where six-cylinder engines dominate, but Volvo’s engineering ensures ample power and efficiency. The lineup includes three powertrains: the T5, T6, and Recharge.
The Recharge, formerly known as the T8, is a plug-in hybrid delivering 400 horsepower along with 18 miles of electric-only range, and improvements to its suspension and brakes last year made it a particularly compelling option.
For 2021, Volvo has made some thoughtful updates to the XC90, including standard adaptive headlights, front parking sensors, and a wireless charging pad, along with refreshed interior trim and upholstery combinations.
Otherwise, the model remains consistent with its established strengths: a luxury crossover SUV that offers strong performance, advanced safety and convenience features, and a distinctive design inside and out.
With a lower price than many competitors, the XC90 provides both value and style, making it a persuasive choice for buyers in the market for a three-row luxury SUV.
4. Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a rugged cold-weather performer. With 4WD systems, selectable terrain modes, and locking differentials, it can handle deep snow, icy roads, and unplowed back roads with ease.
Its higher ground clearance and off-road capabilities make it ideal for drivers who face more extreme winter conditions, while modern interior comforts ensure a pleasant driving experience.
The new Jeep Grand Cherokee continues the legacy of offering multiple powertrain options, including a 3.6-liter V-6, a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, and a plug-in hybrid 4xe that introduces electrification to this family SUV.
Rear-wheel drive comes standard on the base V-6 model, while all-wheel drive is standard on Grand Cherokees equipped with the V-8 or 4xe powertrains. Buyers can choose from several all-wheel-drive systems, including an electronically locking limited-slip differential, depending on their needs.
For those seeking enhanced off-road capability, the Trailhawk model comes equipped with specialized hardware such as an adjustable air suspension providing up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance and a disconnecting sway bar that allows greater wheel articulation over difficult terrain.
During our initial test drive, the Grand Cherokee impressed with a composed and smooth ride. Both the V-6 and V-8 engines deliver ample pep, with our Summit test vehicle reaching 60 mph in 7.4 seconds, while the off-road-focused Trailhawk managed the sprint in 7.7 seconds, demonstrating that Jeep balances both everyday comfort and capable performance.
5. Audi Q5 Quattro
The Audi Q5 Quattro blends luxury and performance. Its legendary Quattro AWD system continuously monitors traction and adjusts power delivery to maintain grip on ice or packed snow.
Heated seats, advanced infotainment, and comfortable seating make winter commutes more enjoyable, while its dynamic handling gives drivers confidence in even the trickiest conditions.
The Audi Q5 strikes a solid balance between sporty driving and comfort. On our Edmunds test track, it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds, quick, though slightly behind the BMW X3 we tested. Its turbocharged engine delivers smooth, strong power without being overly loud or intrusive.
Our test model included the optional air suspension, available on the top-trim Prestige, which enhanced ride quality but didn’t feel strictly necessary. Handling is competent in most situations, though those seeking more aggressive performance would be better served by the SQ5.
One minor quibble during everyday driving is the sensitivity of the brake pedal compared with the more relaxed gas pedal, which takes a bit of adjustment to achieve smooth driving.
Visibility is excellent, and the optional surround-view camera system provides a clear, full-screen perspective of the surroundings. Audi’s driver-assistance systems perform well, though the traditional cruise control stalk beneath the steering wheel feels dated compared with modern steering wheel-mounted controls.
Inside, the Q5 offers a generally comfortable experience. The front seats are firm and highly adjustable, while the second row provides decent legroom and generous headroom, including a reclining option that the BMW X3 lacks.
Entry and exit are straightforward thanks to wide door openings, though the driver’s door handle can feel awkward because of its control layout. Climate controls are integrated into the touchscreen, requiring an extra step for adjustments, but the system itself is powerful, and ventilated seats work especially well.
For families with young children, installing a car seat is straightforward thanks to easy-to-find LATCH anchors, although the front passenger may need to scoot forward slightly to accommodate a rear-facing seat.
Moorhead winters demand vehicles that combine reliability, safety, and winter-ready features. For everyday commuting, cars like the Subaru Outback, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Subaru Impreza, and Mazda CX-50 offer the right balance of AWD capability, comfort, and practicality.
For more extreme winter conditions, cold-weather performers such as the Volvo V60 Cross Country, Kia Telluride, Volvo XC90, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Audi Q5 Quattro provide advanced traction, higher ground clearance, and premium safety features.
Pair the right vehicle with winter tires and sensible driving habits, and you’ll be prepared to tackle the Red River Valley’s harsh winters with confidence.
