Winter weather challenges drivers with icy roads, deep snow, and freezing temperatures, making it vital to choose a car that excels in such conditions. The right vehicle can make all the difference between safe, smooth journeys and hazardous commutes. Features like all-wheel drive (AWD), four-wheel drive (4WD), proper ground clearance, and winter-friendly accessories enhance a car’s ability to handle poor road conditions and extreme cold.
AWD and 4WD systems provide extra traction, especially in snowy, icy, or rainy conditions. Paired with snow tires, they ensure better control and safety. A vehicle equipped with heated seats, steering wheels, and other cold-weather comforts can also improve driving experiences during the coldest months of the year.
This guide reviews the top winter-ready vehicles for 2024, offering a range of options from compact cars to full-size SUVs, and reshuffles the order for variety. Each vehicle’s unique features, performance capabilities, and winter-focused advantages are highlighted to help you pick the best one for your needs.
1. 2024 Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is the ultimate off-road champion, excelling in snow with its rugged design. It features a standard part-time 4WD system, a two-speed transfer case, and tow hooks, making it perfect for tackling deep snow. Advanced options like locking differentials, all-terrain tires, an off-road camera, and a Warn winch further enhance its winter capabilities.
The base Wrangler comes with a 285-horsepower V6 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. Buyers can choose from turbocharged four-cylinder, hybrid, or V8 powertrains for more power, but these options lack optimal fuel efficiency. Newly refreshed for 2024, it boasts updated styling, a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, and wireless smartphone connectivity.
While not as refined as the Grand Cherokee, the Wrangler’s snow-busting ability and off-road prowess make it a top contender for winter driving.
2. 2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country
For a luxurious winter experience, the Volvo V90 Cross Country combines sophistication with capability. Its AWD system, 8.3 inches of ground clearance, and turbocharged engine with a mild-hybrid system producing 295 horsepower deliver strong performance in snowy conditions.
Inside, premium features abound, including a nine-inch touchscreen, quad-zone climate control, wireless charging, and a panoramic sunroof. Optional heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and headlight cleaners add to its cold-weather comfort. The station wagon design offers practicality without sacrificing elegance.
Though not meant for extreme off-roading, the V90 Cross Country excels in blending luxury and winter readiness for everyday use.
3. 2024 Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a versatile station wagon renowned for its winter-driving prowess. Standard AWD, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and a rugged Wilderness trim with all-terrain tires make it ideal for snowy terrain. The Wilderness trim also boosts ground clearance to 9.5 inches, enhancing off-road capabilities.
Engine options include a 182-horsepower flat-four or a 260-horsepower turbocharged flat-six, paired with a CVT for efficiency. Inside, standard features include dual seven-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Safety is a highlight with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and adaptive headlights.
Practical, safe, and capable, the Outback is an excellent choice for snowy commutes and adventures alike.
4. 2024 Honda Pilot
The redesigned Honda Pilot blends midsize SUV practicality with winter-ready features. Its AWD system, shared with Acura’s SH-AWD, provides reliable traction. The off-road-focused TrailSport trim, featuring 8.3 inches of ground clearance and all-terrain tires, excels in snow.
A robust 285-horsepower V6 engine powers the Pilot, and all models include essential features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and dual-zone climate control. Higher trims add heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a surround-view camera, enhancing winter comfort and safety.
With ample cargo space and family-friendly features, the Pilot is a well-rounded choice for winter weather.
5. 2024 Mazda CX-50
The Mazda CX-50 delivers a sporty yet rugged experience for winter driving. Standard AWD, 8.6 inches of ground clearance, and advanced traction control ensure it handles snow confidently. The available turbocharged engine produces 256 horsepower, offering extra power for challenging conditions.
Inside, premium features like an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay, and heated seats enhance comfort. Its sporty handling makes it fun to drive year-round, while winter-ready options like all-terrain tires improve its cold-weather performance.
A stylish, capable compact crossover, the CX-50 shines in snowy conditions without sacrificing driving enjoyment.
6. 2024 Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry surprises with its winter capabilities, offering AWD on most trims. Its 202-horsepower four-cylinder engine pairs with AWD for reliable snow traction, while winter tires can further boost performance. Though lacking SUV-like ground clearance, its AWD system is a boon on icy roads.
Standard features include Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, and adaptive cruise control. With strong reliability and fuel efficiency, the Camry remains a practical, cost-effective winter option for those who prefer sedans.
7. 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a powerhouse SUV ideal for families facing harsh winters. With optional 4WD, all-terrain tires, and advanced traction control, it excels in snow. Its Z71 trim adds off-road-focused features like hill descent control and a two-speed transfer case.
The Tahoe offers spacious seating, modern infotainment, and heated features for maximum comfort. With V8 engine options and a diesel alternative, it delivers power and versatility, making it a formidable winter choice.
8. 2024 Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester combines AWD with practicality, offering 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space. Its 9.2-inch ground clearance on the Wilderness trim and all-terrain tires ensure great snow performance. An 182-horsepower flat-four engine and CVT prioritize efficiency.
Inside, features like Apple CarPlay and optional dual-zone climate control keep occupants comfortable. Its strong safety scores and reliability make the Forester a dependable winter SUV.
9. 2024 Acura RDX
The luxurious Acura RDX boasts standard SH-AWD, excellent safety features, and heated interior options. Its 10.2-inch infotainment display and wireless smartphone integration add tech appeal, while a 272-horsepower engine delivers solid performance.
Though less off-road-focused, the RDX is a refined, capable choice for winter driving.
10. 2024 Mazda Mazda3
Compact and stylish, the Mazda Mazda3 offers AWD on higher trims like the Carbon Edition. Winter-ready features include heated seats, a wiper de-icer, and heated mirrors. Its turbocharged engine options provide up to 227 horsepower for brisk performance.
While not suited for deep snow, the Mazda3 excels in urban winter conditions with its sleek design and practical features.
