Skill, determination, and preparedness can be vital attributes for motorists that must tackle regular driving in parts of the country that see a lot of snowfall each winter. But getting through those blustery snowstorms safely also means finding yourself a vehicle that’s been specifically designed to work on slippery roads.
Luckily, there are plenty of great SUVs on the market today that offer terrific performance for winter driving, including deep snow. The key to a great winter vehicle is one that does this duty well, yet doesn’t detract from its drivability the rest of the year. All-wheel drive (AWD) isn’t a must-have if you’re willing to invest in snow tires—or, more generally, winter tires—but we do recommend a rig with high ground clearance. Whether you’re looking for a more affordable or luxury variant, or one that can tow and haul, check out our list of the best SUVs for snow before you head out to test drive.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different
The Best SUVs for Snow in 2025
- BMW X3
- Subaru Ascent
- Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness
- Land Rover Defender
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- Subaru Forester Wilderness
- Acura RDX
- Kia Sportage Hybrid
- Toyota 4Runner
- Toyota RAV4
FAQs Shopping Tools Related Topics
1. BMW X3
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Poor ride quality |
| Fun to drive | Interior materials feel cheap |
| Excellent value for money | Unintuitive technology |
The redesigned 2025 BMW X3 stands out in the compact luxury SUV segment, blending sporty driving dynamics with a minimalist, modern interior. Its athletic proportions, highlighted by a long hood and dynamic roofline, give it a commanding road presence, while details like the 21-inch wheels and Arctic Race Blue paint add to its allure. Inside, the X3 maximizes space and comfort, especially for front occupants, and the cargo area offers a generous 31.5 cubic feet of capacity—making it practical for everyday family use or weekend adventures.
Under the hood, the X3 30 xDrive trim features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with AWD and a mild-hybrid system for enhanced responsiveness and efficiency. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of six seconds, which is plenty quick for most drivers. While the ride can feel firm—especially with the M Sport suspension and larger wheels—the payoff comes in the form of engaging handling on winding roads. Standard safety tech is robust, and the X3’s pricing undercuts many European rivals, offering a compelling blend of value, driving enjoyment, and upscale features.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Despite our complaints, the redesigned 2025 BMW X3 impresses." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent BMW X3 review
2. 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: 32.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 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 that’s ready for family life and weekend adventures, the 2024 Subaru Ascent stands out with its standard AWD, practical design, and impressive safety ratings. Powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, the Ascent offers solid performance whether you’re commuting, carpooling, or heading off the beaten path. Inside, the Touring trim piles on comfort features like Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof, all while keeping the focus on functionality. With up to 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row (and up to 75.6 cubic feet with both rear rows folded), plus clever storage solutions and wide-opening doors, this SUV is built to make everyday tasks a bit easier.
Tech-wise, the Ascent comes with Subaru’s 11.6-inch Starlink infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available features like a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and surround-view camera. Safety is a key highlight, with Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance suite and top marks from both the NHTSA and IIHS. The main drawbacks are below-average fuel economy for the class and some quirks with the lane-centering system and interior design, but overall, the Ascent delivers a strong blend of value, capability, and peace of mind—especially for families who don’t want to sacrifice all-weather confidence or cargo flexibility.
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
3. Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 5 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 30.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Standard all-wheel drive | Underwhelming base engine |
| Impressive technology | Interior materials feel cheap |
| Outstanding off-road capability in Wilderness trim |
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness takes the best-selling subcompact crossover and turns up the adventure dial, making it one of the most rugged choices in its class. Subaru’s Wilderness trim brings increased ground clearance (9.3 inches), all-terrain features, and a bold new look with beefy cladding and a hexagonal grille. Inside, you get StarTex synthetic leather upholstery that’s both easy to clean and water-resistant—perfect for an active lifestyle. Plus, with features like all-weather floor mats and a robust roof rack (176 lbs dynamic, 700 lbs static), this Crosstrek is built for gear-hauling and outdoor fun.
Under the hood, the Wilderness trim comes standard with the 2.5-liter flat-four engine, putting down 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque through a well-tuned continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s symmetrical AWD. Towing capacity jumps to 3,500 pounds, outclassing most rivals in the segment. While cargo space measures a practical 19.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats (54.7 cu ft with seats folded), the Crosstrek Wilderness remains a great companion for both daily driving and weekend trail escapes. The standard tech, including Subaru’s massive 11.6-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and advanced safety features, adds real value and peace of mind.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Add in the Crosstrek’s on- and off-road capability and the brand’s reputation for strong resale values, and the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek looks like an excellent choice for active, adventurous shoppers." - Matt Smith
Read our most recent Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness review
4. Land Rover Defender
CarGurus expert rating: 7.5 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 |
|---|---|
| Multiple body styles | Poor fuel economy |
| Multiple powertrain options | Poor handling (on pavement) |
| Fun to drive | Poor visibility (to the rear) |
The 2025 Land Rover Defender is built for adventure, offering three distinct body styles—90, 110, and the extended 130—along with a wide range of powertrain options, including a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder mild hybrid delivering 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic and standard AWD, making the Defender as comfortable off the beaten path as it is on suburban streets. The Defender 130, in particular, impresses with its three-row seating, tall driving position with excellent forward visibility, and premium interior materials like Windsor leather and Kvadrat fabric. With up to 89 cubic feet of cargo space (with all rear seats folded) and advanced tech features such as the intuitive Pivi Pro infotainment system and available head-up display, the Defender balances rugged utility with modern luxury touches.
Practicality is a strong point: the Defender 130 offers heated and ventilated seats in the first two rows, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital rearview mirror that compensates for its otherwise limited rear visibility. Off-road prowess is unmatched in this class, thanks to adaptive air suspension, a full suite of terrain management modes, and impressive approach, breakover, and departure angles. While fuel economy is a weakness (expect around 16–19 mpg combined), and the price tag climbs quickly with options, the Defender makes up for these with its distinctive character and broad range of configurations. Advanced driver aids come standard, and Land Rover’s four-year/50,000-mile warranty offers peace of mind for everyday drivers venturing into the unknown.
The CarGurus Verdict: "There is a Land Rover Defender for almost anyone, and any of them can take you farther into the wilderness than you expect. They’re rugged but refined, comfortable yet capable, and plenty of fun to drive. But the Defender comes at a cost, both on the window sticker and at the pump." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Land Rover Defender review
5. Chevrolet Tahoe
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 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 rolls onto the scene with fresh styling and a much-needed tech upgrade, most notably a massive 17.7-inch touchscreen that dominates the dash. Inside, the Tahoe feels significantly more premium than before, thanks to improved cabin materials, more intuitive controls, and a sleeker overall look. Even at the base LS trim, you’ll find practical amenities like physical HVAC controls and a new steering-column-mounted shifter for easier gear changes. The Tahoe continues to offer seating for up to nine passengers and impresses with its blend of rugged capability and everyday usability.
Under the hood, Tahoe shoppers can choose from two V8s—a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, or an available 6.2-liter V8 boasting 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking efficiency without sacrificing muscle, the improved 3.0-liter Duramax diesel is a standout, now delivering 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque, along with up to 27 mpg on the highway. Cargo capacity is generous, maxing out at 122.9 cubic feet with all seats folded, but with every row in use, you'll have 25.5 cubic feet of space—adequate for most families but tighter than you might expect from a full-size SUV. If you need more room for luggage with a full passenger load, it’s worth considering the larger Suburban.
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
6. Subaru Forester Wilderness
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 33.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Impressive off-road capability | Potentially polarizing design |
| Lots of utility | Sluggish performance |
| Good safety ratings | Dissatisfying infotainment system |
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is purpose-built for adventure, thanks to its all-terrain tires, rugged styling, and a raised suspension that offers a best-in-class 9.3 inches of ground clearance. Subaru has improved the approach, breakover, and departure angles to make rough trails more accessible, while underbody protection and a full-size all-terrain spare give you peace of mind on the road less traveled. Inside, the Wilderness is designed for easy clean-up after muddy excursions, featuring water-resistant synthetic leather seats, all-weather mats, and a durable cargo area. Though the design may be an acquired taste, the utility and versatility are hard to beat in the compact SUV segment.
Performance is handled by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired to a CVT with a model-specific final-drive ratio for better off-road responsiveness. Towing capacity sees a bump to 3,500 pounds, and Subaru's advanced AWD system, along with X-Mode traction settings, ensures confident handling in snow, dirt, and mud. With 27.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats—expandable to 69.1 cubic feet with the seats folded—the Forester Wilderness offers impressive practicality for families and adventurers alike. Safety remains a highlight, with Subaru EyeSight driver assist tech, improved rear seatbelt protection, and excellent crash ratings.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Push the new 2026 Forester Wilderness to its limits, and you’ll be impressed by its off-roading capability. But, even if you’re not planning to traverse challenging terrain, it is comforting to know that the Wilderness offers more competence than a typical crossover SUV when confronted with unexpected situations." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Subaru Forester Wilderness review
7. Acura RDX
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 30.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enjoyable to drive | Poor fuel economy |
| Good safety ratings | Uncomfortable back seat |
| Excellent value for money | Frustrating infotainment controls |
Although the 2025 Acura RDX hasn’t seen a full redesign since 2019, it continues to impress with thoughtful updates and great value in the compact luxury SUV segment. Subtle changes to the exterior, like a frameless grille and new wheel options, keep the RDX looking fresh, while interior refinements such as full leather upholstery in the top trims and an improved wireless charging pad make day-to-day life easier. With a standard panoramic sunroof, high-quality materials throughout, and ample ambient lighting, the RDX balances refinement with everyday practicality. Cargo space is a highlight—expect at least 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, plus helpful underfloor compartments for smaller items.
Under the hood, every RDX is powered by a lively turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and Acura’s sophisticated Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). On the road, the RDX feels agile and responsive, especially with the adaptive-damping suspension in the A-Spec Advance trim. However, fuel economy is not its strong suit, as real-world results often fall below the EPA’s 23 mpg combined estimate. Tech-wise, the RDX offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its touchpad-based infotainment system can be frustrating to use. Safety ratings are top-notch, with a full suite of driver aids standard and excellent crash-test scores.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Though the current-generation RDX hasn’t seen a redesign since the 2019 model year, it remains an appealing choice and a genuine bargain in the compact luxury crossover SUV segment. This Acura’s most glaring flaws pertain to its infotainment system interface and thirsty engine." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Acura RDX review
8. Kia Sportage Hybrid
CarGurus expert rating: 7.5 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 |
|---|---|
| Fuel-efficient | Fuel efficiency drops with AWD |
| Comfortable | Fairly pedestrian performance |
| Premium interior materials | Some advanced safety features are not standard |
The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid stands out for its smart blend of efficiency, comfort, and tech, making it a strong contender in the highly competitive compact crossover segment. Sized right in between true subcompact and compact SUVs, the Sportage Hybrid offers a roomy, flexible interior with up to 73.7 cubic feet of cargo space and plenty of legroom for both front and rear passengers. Its bold exterior styling and upscale interior—especially in upper trims—give it a premium feel without the premium price. Standard features like the 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with available Harman Kardon audio, keep tech-savvy drivers happy.
Under the hood, the Sportage Hybrid is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 47.7-kilowatt electric motor for a combined 232 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. This setup delivers brisk acceleration in city driving but can feel a bit flat at highway speeds. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) models achieve an impressive EPA-estimated 42 mpg combined, while AWD versions drop to 35 mpg combined—still competitive, but a step behind some rivals. Kia’s suite of driver-assist features is generous, though the most advanced options are reserved for higher trims. Overall, the Sportage Hybrid is a practical, value-packed choice for families and commuters who want a comfortable ride, modern amenities, and strong fuel savings.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The 2026 Kia Sportage is sized right in between smaller subcompact and larger compact crossover SUVs, and it strikes an intriguing balance of roominess, comfort and efficiency that ought to win over plenty of American buyers." - Jeremy Korzeniewski
Read our most recent Kia Sportage Hybrid review
9. Toyota 4Runner
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: insufficient data Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 35.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish design | Limited rear-seat space |
| Excellent off-road abilities | |
| Relatively fuel efficient |
After a 15-year wait, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner arrives as a thoroughly modernized off-road SUV that manages to keep its old-school character. The new model is longer than before, with more aggressive, industrial styling that pays homage to previous generations while adding a broader, more muscular stance. Inside, you'll find a cabin that echoes the Tacoma pickup, with plenty of hard-wearing materials for durability, yet improved comfort and a noticeable step up in quality compared to direct rivals like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. The 4Runner's control layout is refreshingly straightforward, with oversized knobs and tactile buttons that are easy to use even with gloves on—an obvious nod to adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Performance is another highlight, with the standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 317 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired to an eight-speed automatic for better acceleration and economy. For those craving more muscle, the new i-Force Max Hybrid option boosts output to 326 hp and an impressive 465 lb-ft of torque, making it the off-road enthusiast’s pick—especially for low-speed crawling or towing (up to 6,000 pounds). Cargo capacity stands at 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row (42.6 with the hybrid), which is slightly less than before but still practical, and the roof rack can support up to 800 pounds static load, perfect for overlanding. Tech is modern and approachable, with available 14-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and a suite of advanced safety features standard across the lineup. All told, the new 4Runner delivers more comfort, refinement, and value while remaining a rugged, capable adventure machine.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Toyota doesn't throw out the formula with its newly redesigned 4Runner. Instead, the 2025 model keeps many of the features shoppers have loved for over a decade, while also adding a more contemporary selection of four-cylinder powertrains." - Mark Takahashi
Read our most recent Toyota 4Runner review
10. 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: 4.1 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 debuts as a more powerful and efficient SUV, now offering a standard hybrid powertrain with a claimed 44 mpg combined. The sixth-generation RAV4 introduces three distinct design themes—Core, Rugged, and Sport—across seven trims, making it easier for buyers to find a model that fits their lifestyle, though the lineup may seem confusing at first glance. Inside, a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and up to a 12.9-inch touchscreen modernize the cabin, while clever storage solutions and a generous cargo area (up to 70.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded) enhance everyday usability.
On the road, the hybrid powertrain delivers 226 hp (FWD) or 236 hp (AWD) from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motors, providing strong acceleration and smooth transitions between gas and electric power. The ride is tuned for comfort, with AWD and available all-terrain tires on select trims like the Woodland. Safety is a priority, as every RAV4 now comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, bringing improved driver-assistance features and expanded camera/radar coverage. Pricing is expected to start in the low $30,000s, making the RAV4 a strong value in the hybrid SUV segment.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The good gets better, but the RAV4's lineup is confusing enough to need a Venn diagram." - Rob Duffer
Read our most recent Toyota RAV4 review
Best SUVs for Snow FAQs
What makes an SUV good for snow?
Several features contribute to an SUV's performance in snow. Key among them are all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) for improved traction, high ground clearance to navigate deep snow without getting stuck, and the right tires. Winter-specific features like heated seats, steering wheels, and remote start also add comfort and convenience. The larger size and weight of SUVs can also provide better stability and protection in slippery conditions.
Is AWD or 4WD better for snow?
It depends on the conditions. AWD is generally better for most drivers on snowy and icy roads because it automatically adjusts power to the wheels with the most traction without driver input. 4WD, which often needs to be manually engaged, is superior for extreme conditions like deep, unplowed snow or rugged back roads where maximum, consistent power to all wheels is needed.
Do I need snow tires if I have an AWD SUV?
Yes, it is highly recommended. While AWD helps with getting the vehicle moving, it does little to improve braking and cornering on ice and snow. Winter tires are made from a softer rubber compound that stays flexible in the cold and have special tread patterns designed to grip ice and snow, significantly improving stopping ability and overall control. Tests have shown that a front-wheel-drive (FWD) car with winter tires can outperform an AWD vehicle with all-season tires in braking and cornering.
How important is ground clearance for snow driving?
Ground clearance is very important, especially in areas with heavy snowfall. A higher ground clearance, generally 8 inches or more, allows a vehicle to drive over deep snow without the undercarriage getting caught or plowing snow, which can cause the vehicle to get stuck. For driving on plowed city streets, it's less of a concern, but for unplowed rural roads or mountain passes, it's a critical feature.
Are luxury SUVs good in the snow?
Many luxury SUVs are excellent in the snow. They often come equipped with sophisticated full-time AWD systems, adjustable air suspensions to increase ground clearance, and advanced electronic aids like traction and stability control. Models from brands like Land Rover, BMW, Audi, and Porsche are known for being surprisingly capable in winter conditions, often blending performance with comfort features like heated seats and steering wheels.
Are hybrid and electric SUVs good for winter driving?
Hybrid and electric SUVs can be very capable in the winter, especially those with AWD. However, cold weather affects their efficiency. EV batteries are less efficient in the cold, which can reduce the vehicle's range by up to 50% in the most frigid conditions. Hybrids also see a drop in fuel economy because the gasoline engine may run more often to provide cabin heat and keep the battery at an optimal temperature. Features like pre-conditioning (warming the cabin while plugged in), heated seats, and heat pumps can help mitigate range loss in EVs.
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 November 2025. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
