Skill, determination, and preparedness can be vital attributes for motorists who 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.
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The Best SUVs for Snow in 2026
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1. Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness
CarGurus expert rating: 8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 35.2%
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 Crosstrek Wilderness is built from the ground up for conditions that send other subcompact crossovers into a panic. Standard symmetrical AWD is paired with 9.3 inches of ground clearance — best-in-class for the segment — and all-terrain tires come fitted as standard, meaning it arrives ready for snow without any aftermarket upgrades. X-Mode with Hill Descent Control manages traction on slippery inclines automatically, and improved approach, breakover, and departure angles mean you won't be beached on a hidden snowbank. Towing capacity of 3,500 pounds means it can haul a snowmobile trailer without breaking a sweat.
Inside, the Wilderness is smart about winter life: StarTex synthetic leather resists moisture and cleans up easily after wet boots and gear, and all-weather floor mats come standard. The 11.6-inch touchscreen and standard EyeSight driver-assist suite — including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise — mean you're not sacrificing technology for toughness. For winter driving specifically, the Crosstrek Wilderness punches well above its class.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Add in the Crosstrek’s on- and off-road capability and the brand’s reputation for strong resale values, and the Subaru Crosstrek looks like an excellent choice for active, adventurous shoppers." - Matt Smith
Read our most recent Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness review
2. Acura RDX
CarGurus expert rating: 7.3 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 35.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Enjoyable to drive |
Poor fuel economy |
| Good safety ratings |
Uncomfortable back seat |
| Excellent value for money |
Frustrating infotainment controls |
The Acura RDX's secret weapon for winter driving is its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which doesn't just distribute torque between front and rear axles — it actively vectors power between the rear wheels to help rotate the car through corners on slippery surfaces. Paired with adaptive-damping suspension available in the A-Spec Advance trim, the RDX maintains composure on snow-covered roads where lesser AWD systems fall flat. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, and the 10-speed automatic keeps the engine in its powerband even when traction is compromised.
The RDX also comes with a full standard suite of driver aids — including lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking — that add an extra layer of confidence in low-visibility winter conditions. The cabin is a warm, well-appointed refuge from the elements, with a panoramic sunroof, premium materials, and wireless CarPlay throughout. The infotainment touchpad can be fussy to use while wearing gloves, and fuel economy isn't its strongest suit, but as a compact luxury SUV that genuinely rewards spirited winter driving, the RDX is hard to beat.
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
3. 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 brings full-size capability to winter driving, and its sheer size and weight work in its favor on snow-covered roads. Available four-wheel drive gives drivers the option to lock in extra traction when conditions deteriorate, and the Tahoe's substantial footprint provides the kind of stability that smaller crossovers simply can't match. The real winter standout, though, is the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel — it produces 495 lb-ft of torque, the kind of low-end grunt that's invaluable for pulling away cleanly from snowy stops or climbing slick grades, all while delivering fuel economy that helps offset long winter commutes.
Seating for up to nine makes it the go-to for carpooling families during school-run season, and with towing capacity high enough to haul a loaded snowmobile trailer, it handles winter utility duty without complaint. The recently upgraded 17.7-inch touchscreen with physical HVAC controls means you're not fumbling through menus while the heater plays catch-up. Cargo space tightens with all rows occupied, but if you need a big, capable, all-conditions vehicle that can genuinely intimidate a blizzard, the Tahoe remains one of the most convincing options in the full-size segment.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Tahoe's 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
4. Subaru Forester Wilderness
CarGurus expert rating: 7.5 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34.1%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Impressive off-road capability |
Potentially polarizing design |
| Lots of utility |
Sluggish performance |
| Good safety ratings |
Dissatisfying infotainment system |
The Forester Wilderness takes Subaru's already winter-capable compact SUV and turns the dial up significantly. Best-in-class ground clearance of 9.3 inches — achieved via a raised suspension with improved approach, breakover, and departure angles — means it can wade through deeper snow without the undercarriage dragging. All-terrain tires come standard, underbody protection guards against hidden ice and debris, and a full-size all-terrain spare means a puncture on a remote winter road doesn't end your trip. X-Mode with dual settings (Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud) manages traction automatically, taking the guesswork out of finding grip on a snow-covered incline.
The powertrain prioritizes low-speed responsiveness over outright acceleration, which is exactly the right call for winter driving, and a Wilderness-specific CVT final-drive ratio reinforces that priority. Inside, water-resistant synthetic leather seating and all-weather mats are thoughtful touches for a vehicle that's expected to get wet and muddy regularly. The Forester Wilderness isn't the quickest or most refined compact SUV on this list, but as a purpose-built winter machine that requires no modification to earn its place in the snow, it's one of the most honest.
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
5. Toyota 4Runner
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 32.5%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Stylish design |
Limited rear-seat space |
| Excellent off-road abilities |
|
| Relatively fuel efficient |
|
The redesigned Toyota 4Runner was built with challenging conditions in mind, and its winter credentials are substantial. The turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder produces 317 horsepower, but the available i-Force Max Hybrid is the real winter pick: 465 lb-ft of torque at near-zero RPM means smooth, effortless power delivery on icy surfaces where wheelspin is the enemy. Multi-terrain Select allows drivers to dial in the appropriate traction mode for snow, mud, or rock, and the 4Runner's body-on-frame construction and available locking rear differential mean it can go places that crossover-based rivals simply can't follow.
Practical details make clear this was designed for serious outdoor use: the controls are oversized with tactile buttons that work in gloves, the roof rack supports up to 800 pounds of static load for ski and snowboard equipment, and towing capacity reaches 6,000 pounds for those hauling a snowmobile trailer. Standard Toyota Safety Sense covers automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise — useful in low-visibility highway conditions. It's not the most fuel-efficient choice on this list, but for drivers who need a true all-conditions SUV rather than just an all-season one, the 4Runner delivers.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Toyota doesn't throw out the formula with its redesigned 4Runner. Instead, the latest generation 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
6. BMW X3
CarGurus expert rating: 6.7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 36.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Fun to drive |
Potentially polarizing design |
| Comfortable |
Interior materials feel cheap |
| Good value for money |
Quirky technology |
The BMW X3 is a reminder that winter driving doesn't have to mean compromising on enjoyment. Standard xDrive AWD underpins every trim, but BMW layers on additional winter-relevant technologies that set it apart: active blind-spot monitoring with steering intervention helps correct lane drift on slippery highways, rear emergency braking adds a safety margin when stopping distances stretch on ice, and hands-free traffic jam assist takes the stress out of slow-speed winter commutes. A tight turning radius and responsive variable steering make maneuvering in snow-banked parking lots far less fraught than in a larger SUV, and the outstanding surround-view camera gives a bird's-eye view of exactly where your wheels are relative to hidden curbs and obstacles.
The X3 has earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, and heated power-adjustable front seats are standard across the lineup — an often-overlooked winter essential. The touch-sensitive interior controls can feel fussy with cold fingers, and the infotainment has its quirks, but the X3's blend of confidence-inspiring AWD, proactive driver-assist technology, and genuinely rewarding dynamics makes it one of the most compelling compact luxury SUVs for buyers who actually use their vehicle in winter rather than just weather it.
The CarGurus Verdict: "For this review, we evaluated the BMW X3 M50. It was terrific, but with a sticker price more than $15,000 higher than the rewarding X3 30 xDrive, it’s hard to justify the extra money." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent BMW X3 review
7. Land Rover Defender
CarGurus expert rating: 7.5 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 35.5%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 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) |
When the conversation turns to serious winter capability, the Land Rover Defender has few peers. Adaptive air suspension can raise ground clearance on demand, a full suite of terrain response modes manages traction across snow, ice, mud, and everything in between, and its approach, breakover, and departure angles are among the most capable of any SUV you can buy at a dealer. The turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild hybrid delivers 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque through an AWD system refined over decades of Land Rover winter and expedition development — this isn't a system designed to handle a slushy parking lot; it's engineered for conditions that would stop most vehicles cold.
Available in three body styles — the short-wheelbase 90, the five-door 110, and the extended three-row 130 — the Defender suits buyers from solo adventurers to large families who refuse to let winter dictate their plans. Heated and ventilated front seats, a digital rearview mirror (useful when the rear window is caked with snow and road spray), and Pivi Pro infotainment make the cabin a comfortable place to ride out a storm. Fuel economy is a genuine weakness, and the price climbs quickly with options, but for buyers who view winter not as an obstacle but as an opportunity, the Defender is the most capable and characterful choice on this list.
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
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8. 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 |
The Subaru Ascent makes standard all-wheel drive the starting point for every trim — not an option, not an upgrade — which sets exactly the right tone for a three-row family SUV on a winter list. The turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, and the AWD system works in concert with Subaru's EyeSight suite — including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise with stop-and-go, and lane-keep assist — to give families additional confidence in low-visibility conditions. The Ascent's elevated ride height also pays dividends in snow, improving both ground clearance and driver sightlines when roads are obscured.
Top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS matter a great deal for a vehicle regularly carrying seven or eight passengers through winter conditions. Wide-opening doors make loading and unloading bundled-up kids in the cold noticeably easier than in some three-row rivals, and up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo space handles ski bags, sleds, and winter gear without complaint. The lane-centering system is a known quirk, and fuel economy trails the class, but as a safe, sensible, and genuinely AWD-capable family hauler for winter, the Ascent makes a strong argument.
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
9. 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 hybrid powertrain now standard across the lineup — a significant upgrade that directly benefits winter driving. Electric motors deliver instant torque from a standstill, which is exactly what you want when pulling away from a snowy intersection, and AWD models use a rear-mounted electric motor to drive the rear wheels independently, providing genuine all-wheel traction without a traditional mechanical driveshaft. Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 — standard across the range — brings expanded camera and radar coverage for better performance in snow and low-visibility conditions where older sensor setups sometimes struggled.
The Woodland trim is worth calling out specifically for winter-focused shoppers: it adds all-terrain tires from the factory and additional ground clearance, turning the RAV4 into something that can handle unplowed roads rather than just a well-groomed highway in light snow. The 2026 lineup's array of trim levels and design themes can feel labyrinthine to navigate, but once you find your fit, you're getting one of the most practical, efficient, and winter-ready compact SUVs on the market — backed by Toyota's long reliability record, which means you're unlikely to find yourself stranded in conditions where you really don't want to be.
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
10. Kia Sportage Hybrid
CarGurus expert rating: 7.5 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 36.9%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 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's winter case starts with its AWD powertrain, which pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with a 47.7-kW electric motor for 232 horsepower and a strong 271 lb-ft of torque — the kind of low-end pull that makes for confident, smooth acceleration on slippery surfaces. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sport, which translates well to winter driving: it absorbs road imperfections patiently, and the Sportage doesn't feel nervous or skittish in conditions that would unsettle a firmer setup. Its size — splitting the difference between subcompact and compact — gives it a useful blend of maneuverability and stability.
The premium interior in upper trims feels a level above the segment, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay comes standard. It's worth noting that some of Kia's more advanced driver-assist features are reserved for higher trims, so buyers who want the full suite of winter-relevant aids should spec accordingly. AWD does knock efficiency down compared to the front-drive model, but 35 mpg combined on all four wheels in winter conditions is still a strong figure. For families or commuters who want a comfortable, efficient, and capable winter daily driver without spending luxury money, the Sportage Hybrid hits the sweet spot.
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
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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.
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