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.
The Best Cars for Snow in 2025
- 1. 2024 Subaru Ascent
- 2. 2025 Honda Pilot
- 3. 2024 Toyota Tacoma
- 4. 2025 RAM 1500
- 5. 2019 Audi A6
- 6. 2026 Honda Civic
- 7. 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
- 8. 2026 Toyota RAV4
- 9. 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe
- 10. 2023 Genesis G90
1. 2024 Subaru Ascent
CarGurus expert rating: 7 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 5 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 32.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.7 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| Great safety ratings | Outdated interior design |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 2024 Subaru Ascent stands out as the only option in Subaru's lineup—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, 2024 Subaru Ascent Review
Read our full 2024 Subaru Ascent review
2. 2025 Honda Pilot
CarGurus expert rating: 6 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 5 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Practical for daily living | Unimpressive fuel economy |
| Plenty of cargo space | Technology looks outdated |
| Great safety ratings | Front passenger seat lacks adjustment |
The 2025 Honda Pilot is designed with family needs and daily usability in mind, standing out for its spacious three-row interior, thoughtful storage solutions, and practical features. Nearly all trims seat eight passengers, and higher trims allow for a seven-passenger setup by removing the second-row center section. The Black Edition trim, featured here, brings unique blacked-out styling, red interior accents, and a host of comfort features, including heated and ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. Cargo space is generous, with 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 86.5 cubic feet with both rear rows folded—ideal for hauling gear, groceries, or luggage for the entire crew.
Power comes from a 3.5-liter V6 producing 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers strong acceleration and a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making the Pilot versatile for road trips and weekend adventures. While the ride is comfortable and handling secure, the Pilot's fuel economy is average for the segment, and the technology suite—while functional—can feel dated compared to rivals. However, every Pilot comes with standard Honda Sensing safety features and top safety ratings, giving peace of mind to families on the go.
The CarGurus Verdict: "With the 2025 Pilot, Honda hasn’t messed with success. It is a roomy and practical daily driver that makes life easy, has plenty of power to effortlessly get up to speed, and is safe for transporting the people you love the most. However, it is time for Honda to offer a hybrid version." - Christian Wardlaw, 2025 Honda Pilot Review
Read our full 2025 Honda Pilot review
3. 2024 Toyota Tacoma
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 35.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 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 arrives with 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, 2024 Toyota Tacoma Review and Video
Read our full 2024 Toyota Tacoma review
4. 2025 RAM 1500
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 32.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Premium interior materials | Advanced safety features are not standard |
| Spacious | |
| Impressive off-road capability available stock |
The 2025 RAM 1500 continues its legacy as a top contender in the full-size truck segment, receiving a significant refresh for the new model year. Ram expands the lineup with a new super-luxe Tungsten trim, introduces advanced technology like a hands-free driver-assistance system, and brings new, more efficient powertrains to the table. The base engine remains the trusted 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, while the iconic HEMI V8 is replaced by the 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six, offering up to 420 hp and 468 lb-ft of torque in its standard form and a whopping 540 hp and 521 lb-ft of torque in the high-output version. Properly equipped, the Ram 1500 now tows up to 11,580 pounds, with a maximum payload of 2,300 pounds using the V6. Ram’s focus on real-world usability shines through with features like the available RamBox cargo management system, lockable weather-proof bed storage, and an available air suspension that enhances both ride comfort and off-road performance.
Inside, the 2025 RAM 1500 sets a new benchmark for comfort and convenience. The Tungsten trim dazzles with a two-tone Indigo and Sea Salt interior, diamond-quilted leather, a suede headliner, and advanced tech like a 14.5-inch touchscreen running a faster Uconnect 5 system. Passengers benefit from heated and ventilated seats in both rows, 24-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, and an impressive 44.8 inches of rear legroom in Crew Cab models. Tech-savvy buyers will appreciate the available 10.25-inch passenger screen, dual wireless charging pads, and the debut of a 23-speaker Klipsch audio system. Safety is elevated with Ram’s new Hands-Free Driving Assist system, although advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control remain optional. Starting at $40,275, the 2025 RAM 1500 delivers substance, style, and smart value in a fiercely competitive market.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The full-size truck market seems to get more and more competitive every year, and Ram just brought its offering back up to the front of the pack. Whether it will stay there another five years remains to be seen, but this update has certainly proven the brand is motivated to fight." - Natalie Harrington, 2025 RAM 1500 Review
Read our full 2025 RAM 1500 review
5. Audi A6
CarGurus expert rating: 9 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No pros and cons data available. | |
One of three redesigned models in Audi’s lineup for 2019, the Audi A6 set a new benchmark among midsize luxury sedans at the time, blending familiar Audi design cues with innovative upgrades. The A6 stands out for its sophisticated Multi-Media Interface (MMI), mild-hybrid powertrain, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Inside, you’ll find an interior that exudes luxury, featuring high-quality materials, refined design, and a technical, modern feel. The Premium Plus trim is especially recommended for its balance of features and value, offering Audi Virtual Cockpit, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a larger 10.1-inch navigation display, and a surround-view camera system—all for under $70,000.
Performance is a highlight, with a creamy-smooth turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 delivering 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, sprinting to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds. The A6’s adaptive suspension ensures a composed ride, even on 21-inch performance tires, and the mild-hybrid system improves efficiency without sacrificing driving enjoyment. While rear-seat comfort and trunk space (13.7 cu ft) may be snug for some families, the A6 excels in technology and safety, offering features like Google Earth navigation, outstanding voice recognition, and a comprehensive suite of driver aids. For shoppers seeking a tech-forward, stylish luxury sedan with engaging performance, the Audi A6 is a standout choice.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Compared to other midsize luxury sedans, the A6 shines brightly for its ageless aesthetics, high-tech and high-quality interior, and sophisticated drivetrain. Especially with its optional 20- or 21-inch wheels, the A6 looks terrific. And in Prestige trim with the adaptive damping suspension and Sport Package, it is an absolute dream to drive." - Christian Wardlaw, 2019 Audi A6 Test Drive Review
Read our full 2019 Audi A6 review
6. 2026 Honda Civic
CarGurus expert rating: 7 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 30.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 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, 2026 Honda Civic Review
Read our full 2026 Honda Civic review
7. 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun to drive | Price increase reduces overall value |
| Improved technology | Frustrated haptic slider controls remain |
| Impressive fuel economy |
The 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI continues its legacy as one of the most entertaining and practical hatchbacks on the market, even as it says goodbye to the manual transmission in favor of a quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Under the hood, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers a robust 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels, ensuring spirited acceleration and agile handling that make every drive engaging. Volkswagen keeps the GTI versatile with 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats (expandable to 34.5 with the seats folded), making it a smart pick for drivers who need both fun and functionality in their daily ride.
Inside, the Golf GTI blends comfort with modern tech. Standard features include a crisp 12.9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a ventilated wireless charging pad, and a full suite of advanced safety tech like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims add premium touches such as a Harman Kardon audio system, sunroof, and Vienna leather seats. The IQ.Drive safety suite, now available across all trims thanks to the new automatic-only setup, provides peace of mind for commuters and families alike. While the price has edged upward, the GTI remains competitive within the hot hatch segment, especially when factoring in its strong warranty and scheduled maintenance coverage.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The 2025 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, 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Review
Read our full 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI review
8. 2026 Toyota RAV4
CarGurus expert rating: 7 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 30.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 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, 2026 Toyota RAV4 Review
Read our full 2026 Toyota RAV4 review
9. 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 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 2025 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, 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe Review
Read our full 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe review
10. 2023 Genesis G90
CarGurus expert rating: 9 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 30.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 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 2023 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, 2023 Genesis G90 Review
Read our full 2023 Genesis G90 review
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.
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