As the calendar moves into the winter months, people across the country get ready for substantially lower temperatures, more rain, thick ice, and puffy white snow. Whether they’re living in a mountain town, braving the frozen tundra of the midwest, or dealing with the potential for deep snow on the coasts, drivers should be prepared for the various road conditions that winter weather can throw their way.
That doesn’t mean you need to rush out and buy an all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle. These drivetrains are great, and each offers some distinct advantages for getting moving in slippery conditions. But if you’re in temperate areas of the country, you can buy a front-wheel-drive (FWD) or even a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) option and get by just fine, especially with a good set of snow tires. In fact, many experts agree that for all-around winter performance, including the crucial acts of stopping and turning, winter tires are more important than which wheels are driven.
Besides the default-equipped traction and stability control, the best vehicles for winter duty offer optional niceties like heated seats, heated mirrors, and a heated steering wheel. Some drive modes that adjust for less-than-ideal driving conditions are nice, too.
To help with your winter driving, we’ve compiled a list of snow-, sleet-, and ice-ready new cars in various sizes and body styles that we’ve tested and driven in lousy winter weather. And remember, no matter which one you choose, there are steps you can take to optimize its capability in the snow, like keeping it fitted with fresh windshield wipers and adequate all-season or winter tires.
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1. Chevrolet Tahoe
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34.6%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Brilliant diesel engine |
Tight cargo space with all rows in place |
| Huge touchscreen upgrade |
Thirsty V8 engines |
| High towing capacity |
|
The Chevrolet Tahoe gets a fresh new look and a major interior tech upgrade, making it more competitive than ever in the full-size SUV segment. Every Tahoe now comes standard with a massive 17.7-inch touchscreen, a redesigned dashboard, and more upscale materials throughout the cabin. With seating for up to nine and a choice of six trims—including the rugged Z71 and luxurious High Country—the Tahoe continues to stand out for its versatility and capability. Chevrolet’s updates keep the Tahoe feeling modern while retaining its core strengths of towing and people-hauling.
Under the hood, buyers can stick with proven V8 power—either a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, or an upgraded 6.2-liter V8 making 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. But the big story is the improved 3.0-liter Duramax diesel inline-six, now delivering 305 hp and a hefty 495 lb-ft of torque, along with up to 27 mpg highway. Towing tops out at 8,400 pounds when properly equipped, and the independent rear suspension means real third-row comfort. Cargo space is huge with seats folded (up to 122.9 cubic feet), but with all rows in place, space is tighter at 25.5 cubic feet. Standard safety tech is robust, and the Tahoe’s new tech suite makes it easier to stay connected on the go.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Although the Tahoe receives only mild mechanical updates for the 2025 model year, its interior takes a healthy step forward. Its primary competitors–the Ford Expedition and the Jeep Wagoneer–no longer look or feel significantly nicer. An upgraded diesel engine also helps separate the Tahoe from the field, offering impressive fuel economy (for a vehicle of this size) and excellent performance." - Matt Smith
Read our most recent Chevrolet Tahoe review
2. RAM 1500
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 33.2%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Multiple powertrain options |
Advanced safety features are not standard |
| Premium interior materials in high-end models |
No base two-door work truck |
| Luxurious and off-road-ready models offered |
|
The 2026 Ram 1500 brings a compelling mix of power, technology, and cold-weather practicality for drivers facing snowy conditions. With available four-wheel drive (4WD) and several powertrain options—including the returning 395-hp, 410 lb-ft Hemi V8, a hearty 420-hp, 469 lb-ft turbocharged inline-six, and a base V6—the Ram 1500 can confidently tackle slippery winter roads. Its Tow mode and Off-Road drive settings, plus features like the Integrated Trailer Health Monitor and Trailer Reverse Guidance, help maintain stability and control when hauling or towing in snow. The available mild hybrid system (eTorque) also aids with smooth starts in slick conditions. For best snow performance, shoppers should opt for a 4WD model and pair it with winter tires for maximum grip; rear-wheel drive (RWD) is not recommended for snowy climates unless you add significant weight over the rear axle and use snow tires.
Inside, the Ram 1500’s spacious Crew Cab offers plenty of comfort for passengers bundled in winter gear, with thoughtful storage for gloves, hats, and boots. The truck’s heated seat and steering wheel options (available on many trims), easy-to-use climate controls, and optional remote start all add real-world benefits when temperatures drop. Safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage come standard, offering peace of mind on icy highways. The available hands-free driving assist system and digital rearview mirror (with trailer view) make long winter trips less stressful, though the most advanced safety tech is reserved for higher trims or option packages.
The CarGurus Verdict: "There’s a lot to like about the 2026 Ram 1500, including its characterful Hemi V8. But if you’re looking for the best version of Ram’s popular pickup, you should think long and hard about how you plan to use the truck. With 10 trim levels and two cab sizes and bed lengths to go along with its four powertrain choices, there are plenty of ways to configure a Ram truck to your exact needs." - Jeremy Korzeniewski
Read our most recent RAM 1500 review
3. Toyota Tacoma
CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 32.3%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Excellent reputation for reliability |
Noisy cabin |
| Great off-road capability |
Manual-adjust seats can be troublesome |
| Standard advanced driver-assistance tech |
Interior skews functional even in the top trim |
Toyota’s fourth-generation Tacoma got a complete redesign for 2024, sharing its robust TNGA-F platform with the larger Tundra and introducing a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine across all trims. Most models deliver 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, with the base SR putting out 228 hp and 243 lb-ft—both big improvements over last year. Buyers can choose RWD or 4WD, and there’s a manual transmission option for traditionalists. Toyota has engineered unique suspensions for each trim, ensuring the right fit for everyone from daily drivers to serious off-roaders. Notably, the Tacoma’s cabin now features squared-off dash elements, MOLLE panels for attachment points, and improved interior comfort in Double Cab models, while the new XtraCab configuration maximizes cargo space behind the seats.
In terms of everyday usability, Toyota has upped the ante with a more versatile and deeper truck bed, increased under-seat storage, and a wide range of available tech upgrades—including a standard 8-inch or available 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety gets a major boost, too: Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is now standard, bringing features like Lane Tracing Assist, lane-departure alert, and an emergency stop system. With improved fuel economy (up to 23 mpg combined in certain configurations) and a strong reputation for durability, the Tacoma remains a practical pick for midsize truck shoppers.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Toyota’s new Tacoma hits the sweet spot for midsize truck shoppers, blending reliability, capability, and modern tech in a package that feels purpose-built for American drivers." - Natalie Harrington
Read our most recent Toyota Tacoma review
4. Subaru Ascent
CarGurus expert rating: 6.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 38.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Standard all-wheel drive |
Unimpressive fuel economy |
| Great safety ratings |
Outdated interior design |
| Good value for money |
Irritating lane-centering technology |
When you need a three-row SUV with AWD, the Ascent is Subaru's offering—and it's built for families who value safety, practicality, and confidence in any weather. The Ascent Touring trim, as tested, is packed with virtually every feature Subaru offers, including a panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather seats, ventilated front seats, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a surround-view camera. The interior is thoughtfully designed with family-friendly touches like rear door cupholders within easy reach, backpack pegs, and clever cargo hooks, making daily life just a little easier.
Power comes from a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, combined with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru's renowned AWD. On the road, the Ascent is smooth and capable, easily handling city bumps and off-road trails alike. Cargo space is a strong suit: you’ll find up to 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 43.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a generous 75.6 cubic feet with both rear rows down. While the tech is generally user-friendly, some features—like the voice recognition—could use refinement, and fuel economy lags behind some rivals. Still, with strong safety scores and a reputation for value, the Ascent is a smart pick for busy families.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Ascent has plenty going for it, from standard all-wheel drive and substantial ground clearance to affordable prices and impressive safety ratings. But it comes across as a little quirky among mainstream choices, which could work in or against its favor." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Subaru Ascent review
5. Honda Civic
CarGurus expert rating: 6.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 31.3%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Choice of body styles |
All-wheel drive not available |
| Enjoyable to drive |
Noisy at speed |
| Premium interior materials |
Outdated technology |
The 2026 Honda Civic continues its run as one of America's best-selling compact cars, offering a blend of sedan and hatchback versatility, with both gas and hybrid powertrains. Even though Honda hasn’t changed much since last year’s update, the Civic remains a standout for everyday drivers thanks to its graceful aging, class-above interior materials, and logical, easy-to-use controls. This year’s lineup includes trims ranging from the value-oriented LX to the more athletic Si and the performance-focused Type R, but FWD is standard across the board—no AWD is available. Inside, the Civic Sport trim impresses with an upscale look and feel, highlighted by details like knurled climate control knobs and honeycomb mesh accents. The cabin is spacious, especially in the back seat, and the trunk offers a generous 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space—nearly as much as some midsize sedans.
On the road, the Civic Sport’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 150 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth CVT and selectable driving modes. While acceleration isn’t thrilling, especially when merging or climbing hills, the responsive handling, precise steering, and composed suspension make it an enjoyable car for daily commutes or weekend drives. The EPA rates the Civic at an efficient 31 mpg city/39 mpg highway/34 mpg combined, and real-world tests confirm its thrifty reputation. Tech is straightforward, with a 7-inch touchscreen and wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, though upper trims offer larger screens and more connectivity features. Safety is strong with Honda Sensing standard, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and the Civic earns top marks from the NHTSA for crash safety. Add in Honda’s reputation for reliability and strong resale value, and the 2026 Civic is a smart buy for shoppers seeking long-term value and everyday practicality.
The CarGurus Verdict: "You’ll pay a premium to buy a Honda Civic. In many ways, it’s worth the extra money. In others, not so much. Still, while there are better deals in the compact car class, few are as satisfying to drive, and that’s true even when the Civic is equipped with its base engine." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Honda Civic review
6. Honda Pilot
CarGurus expert rating: 7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 33.8%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5Overall CarGurus rating: 4.7 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Comfortable |
No hybrid option |
| Plenty of cargo space |
|
| Plenty of passenger space |
|
If you’re cross-shopping something like a Ram 1500 for its tough styling but your day-to-day reality involves family hauling, the Honda Pilot leans into that “brawny” vibe with a more driveway-friendly mission. The 2026 Pilot returns with a tougher look, but its biggest strengths are the ones you’ll feel every day: a comfortable ride, room to spread out across three rows, and cargo space that makes errands, sports gear, and road-trip packing less of a puzzle.
For shoppers who like the idea of a do-it-all vehicle but don’t actually need an open bed, the Pilot’s interior space and easygoing manners can replace a pickup’s practicality in a lot of households. The big tradeoff called out here is efficiency choice—there’s no hybrid option—so if fuel savings is a priority, you may end up comparing it against electrified three-row rivals instead of sticking with the truck set.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The 2026 Honda Pilot returns with a brawny new look." - Mark Takahashi
Read our most recent 2026 Honda Pilot review
7. Toyota RAV4
CarGurus expert rating: 6.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 33.9%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Multiple trims and styles |
Confusing trim levels |
| Standard hybrid |
Size hasn't kept up with rivals |
| Updated tech |
|
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 arrives with a fresh redesign, more power, and greater efficiency, reinforcing its status as one of America’s bestselling SUVs. The sixth-generation RAV4 embraces a boxier, more rugged look while offering three distinct design themes—Core, Rugged, and Sport—across seven trim levels. Every model now comes standard with a hybrid powertrain, delivering a claimed 44 mpg combined for both FWD and AWD configurations, while top AWD trims like the XSE and Limited achieve 42 mpg combined. Under the hood, the RAV4 Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (183 hp, 163 lb-ft of torque) with electric motors for a total system output of up to 236 hp (AWD), offering brisk acceleration and smooth, quiet cruising.
Toyota hasn’t just focused on efficiency; the RAV4’s interior is smarter than ever, featuring a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an available 12.9-inch touchscreen loaded with Toyota’s new Arene operating system for faster, more intuitive controls. Practicality remains a RAV4 hallmark, with cleverly optimized storage areas and up to 37.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats—expanding to 70.4 cubic feet with them folded. Standard safety tech now includes Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, adaptive cruise control with limited hands-free driving, and an enhanced suite of active driver assists. Pricing starts in the low $30,000s, making the RAV4 Hybrid a strong value proposition against rivals like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The good gets better, but the RAV4's lineup is confusing enough to need a Venn diagram." - Robert Duffer
Read our most recent Toyota RAV4 review
8. Audi A6
CarGurus expert rating: 7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 35.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Powerful engine |
Unimpressive interior materials |
| Standard all-wheel drive |
Poorly executed infotainment system |
| Spacious |
Unrefined driving experience |
The 2026 Audi A6 arrives as a thoroughly redesigned ninth-generation model, and for winter drivers, its headline feature is hard to beat: a standard quattro all-wheel drive system on every single trim level, paired with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 producing 362 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. That combination launches the A6 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds—quicker than a base BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class—while brake-based torque vectoring helps distribute power intelligently in slippery conditions. Base and premium trim levels come with all-season run-flat tires as standard, meaning you won't be stranded if a winter puncture strikes far from a service center. Inside, heated and ventilated front seats are standard, heated rear seats are included on all but the base Premium trim, and a sweeping panoramic glass roof with six dimmable panels keeps the cabin feeling open and airy even on grey winter days. Standard driver aids including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking round out a strong cold-weather package.
On the road, the A6 is composed and confidence-inspiring in the kind of long-haul, highway-heavy driving that winter weather demands—stable at speed and precise in its steering. The adaptive air suspension on Prestige models soaks up rough, frost-heaved pavement without fuss, and real-world fuel economy of around 22 mpg is achievable even on hilly routes. The main areas to be aware of are an infotainment interface that feels like a work in progress—Audi has acknowledged this and is rolling out an improved system mid-model year—and interior materials that don't quite live up to the $65,395 starting price. But as an all-weather luxury sedan with standard AWD, serious power, and a comprehensive suite of safety technology, the A6 makes a genuinely strong case for snow-prone climates.
The CarGurus Verdict: "For new car shoppers who feel paralyzed by choice, the Audi A6 offers everything a luxury sedan should have in one package." - Stephen Edelstein
Read our most recent Audi A6 review
9. Genesis G90
CarGurus expert rating: 8.7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.9 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34.7%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Excellent value for money |
Not much interior storage |
| Stylish design |
Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Spacious back seat |
|
The Genesis G90 makes a strong impression in the luxury sedan market, blending eye-catching design with a generous list of high-end features—many of which come standard. From its distinctive LED lighting and elegant grille to the plush, Nappa leather-wrapped interior, the G90 is crafted to stand out among established German rivals. The G90 offers rear seats with nearly 38 inches of legroom and amenities like massaging functions, rear sunshades, and even a reclining footrest, ensuring every passenger rides in first-class comfort. Under the hood, the top trim’s 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 E-SC delivers an impressive 409 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque, paired to all-wheel drive and a multi-chamber air suspension that soaks up rough roads with ease.
Genesis doesn’t just focus on comfort; the G90 comes loaded with advanced tech and safety features. A 12.3-inch infotainment screen is paired with a fully digital gauge cluster, while rear-seat passengers enjoy their own touchscreen controls. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are missing, the car makes up for it with standout touches like its digital key, available through your smartphone, and remote parking assist. Safety is robust, with systems like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera all standard. Add in a strong warranty and complimentary maintenance, and the G90’s value proposition is hard to beat, especially when it undercuts its German counterparts on price while offering more standard luxury.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Not only does it offer more features and luxury appointments than its Germans rivals do, but this flagship sedan is also a stunning value." - Emme Hall
Read our most recent Genesis G90 review
10. Volkswagen Golf GTI
CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Fun to drive |
Price increase reduces overall value |
| Improved technology |
Frustrated haptic slider controls remain |
| Impressive fuel economy |
|
The Volkswagen Golf GTI earns its place on any best-cars-for-snow list not through brute force, but through a combination of capable technology and everyday confidence. The standard IQ.Drive safety suite includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist—a comprehensive set of features that prove genuinely valuable when winter weather demands extra vigilance. Road-sign recognition is standard across all trims, a useful perk when speed limit signs are buried in snowbanks, and the SE and Autobahn trims add adaptive headlights that improve visibility on dark, snowy nights. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivers 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, providing smooth, confident power delivery that doesn't catch you off guard on slippery surfaces—and an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined means fewer cold-weather fuel stops.
Inside, the GTI is a genuinely practical and comfortable companion for winter commuting. The hatchback body style offers 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats—plenty of room for snow gear, an ice scraper, and an emergency kit—expanding to 34.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The SE and Autobahn trims include a sunroof, automatic climate control is standard across the lineup, and the new 12.9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keeps you connected without fumbling with your phone in the cold. It's worth noting that the GTI is front-wheel drive only, so dedicated winter tires are a worthwhile investment for serious snow climates. But for drivers who want a car that's genuinely thrilling year-round without sacrificing practicality or safety tech, the GTI delivers in spades.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Volkswagen Golf GTI is still one of the best hatchbacks you can buy today. With a terrific powertrain and everyday practicality, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a useful car that’s also extremely fun to drive." - Matt Smith
Read our most recent Volkswagen Golf GTI review
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Best Cars for Snow FAQs
What is more important for snow: AWD or winter tires?
While AWD is excellent for helping a vehicle accelerate and get moving in snow, it doesn't significantly help with braking or turning. For this reason, most experts agree that a set of dedicated winter tires provides a greater overall safety benefit. Winter tires use softer rubber compounds and special tread designs to provide superior grip for stopping, turning, and accelerating in cold, snowy, and icy conditions. The ideal combination for severe winter weather is an AWD vehicle equipped with winter tires.
What features make a car good for winter driving?
Several features can make driving in winter safer and more comfortable. AWD or 4WD improves traction. Comfort features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start can make cold mornings much more pleasant. Key safety technologies include anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and electronic stability control (ESC), which help prevent skidding and maintain control on slippery roads.
Can I drive a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) car in the snow?
Yes, you can drive a RWD car in the snow, but it requires extra caution. Historically, most cars were RWD, and drivers managed through winter. Modern RWD cars benefit from electronic aids like traction control and stability control, which make them much safer than their predecessors. However, the single most important factor for driving a RWD car in winter is a good set of winter tires, which dramatically improves traction for braking, cornering, and accelerating. Adding weight to the rear of the vehicle can also help improve traction.
Are electric vehicles (EVs) good in the snow?
Electric vehicles can perform very well in the snow. The heavy battery pack is often located low in the vehicle's chassis, creating a low center of gravity that can improve stability and traction. Like gasoline cars, EVs benefit from safety systems like stability control and anti-lock brakes. However, cold weather does reduce an EV's battery range, sometimes by 10-20% or more, and charging can take longer in freezing temperatures. Using features like heated seats and pre-conditioning the cabin while the car is still plugged in can help preserve range.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different?
Most car-shopping websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations generally driven by editorial expertise. Here's what makes ours different: In addition to the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts, our best cars guides take into account other factors that we know matter to buyers-real owner experiences and current market value.
Our expert reviewers are among this country's most trusted automotive journalists, also writing for publications including US News and World Report, Edmunds, Digital Trends, J.D. Power, and Car & Driver. They put each car through real-world testing and create detailed reviews of performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners to cost-effectiveness and safety.
We also analyze hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus.com to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in reviews from owners-people who actually live with these cars every day. Our proprietary Best Cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating combining expert scores, user reviews, and the percentage of listings that have earned the Good or Great Deal rating. This multi-pronged approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus market data used in this guide was last updated in July 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
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