If you’re one of the lucky, or unlucky, millions of people that live in a climate where winter driving can present a challenge, you recognize the need for a car that can perform in the snow. There is a constant concern that presents itself on a yearly basis, based on what type of vehicle is going to keep us as safe as possible in the winter, if the snow builds up outside.

Winter driving is a challenge for most drivers in the Northern and Midwestern states during the months between November and March. The winter precipitation causes icy and slick road conditions that can lead to the slipping and sliding that can cause accidents. Many people that were raised in these areas feel a certain level of comfort, or discomfort when it comes to driving in the snow, but having a car that is equipped to perform raises our comfort level quite a bit, making us surer of ourselves. The more confidence we have while driving, the safer we are, and the safer other drivers will be on the road.

Some may argue that any vehicle can perform in winter weather and that it depends on the driver’s comfort with conditions. This may be true, as surety can certainly lead to a different level of comfortability on the road, thus making us take the overthinking aspect out of winter driving. However, having a car that is made to perform and is proven to do well in the snow can increase our safety.

1. Toyota Sienna – For minivan drivers, our families are our top priorities, and their safety is paramount. Snow driving adds a different level of concern for most drivers when they’re alone, but adding the mix of our children into the equation makes for an added concern. The Sienna is made for all season versatility, as it equally powers all four wheels. Ranked quite high on many different compiled lists for safety and security, this minivan not only can perform in the snow, but you can rest assured that your family will be safe as well.
2. Volvo S60 – Forged in Sweden where snow reigns supreme, the Volvo line is made for snow. With an optional traction control button that can be selected so as not to influence the high gas mileage performance of this vehicle. While a sedan may not seem like the safest selection for winter driving, the Volvo brand makes a vehicle that is ready for any weather that is thrown at it. Available in both AWD and FWD versions, the S60 is built to perform well with either selection.
3. Subaru Outback – This updated version of the classic wagon is perfect for snow driving with its all-wheel driveability, but also for performance in any type of weather situation. A popular vehicle in the Northern states, the Outback is big on rugged ability, but without the cumbersome feeling of driving a massive SUV. The all-wheel-drive system powers each of the wheels in equal fashion, creating a fantastic grip in any road condition.
4. Jeep Grand Cherokee – Most SUVs are going to be pretty solid performers in the snow, given their heavier duty tires, ground clearance, and power. The power from the engine gives the Jeep Grand Cherokee the ability to move through even heavy packed snow, while the raised height allows for increased maneuverability in higher, drifting snow. Four-wheel drive options will obviously raise the SUVs ability to perform well in winter weather with ease, but even a two-wheel system will allow for comfort in any condition.
5. Honda Civic – Despite its light weight, the Civic is actually a pretty solid performer when it comes to snowy roads. While it won’t plow through high snow with the ease of an SUV due to the lower ground clearance, it will keep drivers from sliding on snowy roadways. Typically, a lightweight car will slide in the snow due to a lack of weight, but the Civic’s weight is distributed fairly evenly to prevent a front heavy, or rear heavy feeling. By equipping the Civic with a good set of all-weather tires, handling ability can be increased.

Snow driving can be a harrowing experience, for even the most seasoned drivers and the added terror of other people’s driving can make even a ten-mile commute a terrifying experience. There is a lot of guesswork that goes into winter driving, but a slow and steady approach is the best way to handle it. Of course, no amount of preparation or four-wheel drive will help in a situation where panic takes over. Cooler heads will certainly prevail when the temperature starts to drop and snow begins to fall, so in any event, keep your cool about you.