What car to choose for the winter: a list of the most successful models

Winter is a time when motorists face special challenges, such as snowy roads and slippery roadsides. It is extremely important to choose a vehicle that can provide safety and comfort.

According to Torque News, several Subaru models have been named among the best winter cars, which are able to cope with even extreme weather conditions. In addition to Subaru, the list also includes other reliable vehicles that can help drivers comfortably overcome winter routes.

The key role of ground clearance

One of the most important criteria for a winter car is ground clearance. According to US News, SUVs such as the Subaru Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek have ground clearance of up to 9.4 inches, which makes it easy to overcome snowy obstacles. Vehicles with such ground clearance are better suited for winter conditions, as they reduce the risk of getting stuck in deep snow. That is why Subaru models are often chosen for driving in difficult weather conditions.

Leaders among winter cars

US News recognizes several models in the ranking of the best cars for winter driving. The Subaru Outback received high marks for its standard all-wheel drive and excellent safety, making it a favorite among winter vehicles. The Forester was also recognized for its comfortable seating position, which allows the driver to keep control of the situation on the road even during heavy snowfalls. Other recommended models include the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Volvo XC40, which also have high ground clearance and are adapted to difficult road conditions.

Are SUVs always better?

While SUVs with high ground clearance and all-wheel drive are generally considered the best for winter roads, some station wagons, such as the Subaru Outback, are also effective. Thanks to its technical characteristics, this wagon has all the advantages of an SUV, providing a comfortable and stable ride. In particular, the ground clearance of the Outback in the Wilderness version reaches 9.4 inches, which is one of the highest in its class.

Popular models of 2024-2025

The rating of the best winter cars also includes new models of 2024-2025, including Subaru Crosstrek, Volvo S90, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Telluride. These models are characterized by high reliability, which allows drivers to feel confident even on difficult winter routes. The Hyundai Tucson and Kia Telluride received one of the highest scores – 9.1 and 9.4 respectively – for their ability to cope with bad weather.

Top models for winter driving

In the list of the best winter cars, the Subaru Outback and Subaru Forester received high marks for functionality and safety. They are also joined by the Volvo XC40 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which provide high performance in the snow. With three rows of seats and an 8.7-inch ground clearance, the Subaru Ascent is the perfect choice for families who need extra space.

Rating of the best cars for winter according to US News Autos

1. 2024 Subaru WRX – Overall rating: 8.2/10
2. 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee – Overall rating: 8.7/10
3. 2025 Volvo XC40 – Overall rating: 9.0/10
4. 2025 Subaru Outback – Overall rating: 9.0/10
5. 2024 Volvo S90 – Overall rating: 8.8/10
6. 2024 Subaru Ascent – Overall rating: 8.8/10
7. 2024 Audi A4 Allroad – Overall rating: 9.4/10
8. 204 Ford Bronco Sport – Overall rating: 8.8/10
9. 2025 Subaru Forester – Overall rating: 8.6/10
10. 2025 Honda Ridgeline – Overall rating: 9.0/10
11. 2024 Subaru Crosstrek – Overall rating: 8.9/10
12. 2024 Hyundai Tucson – Overall rating: 9.1/10
13. 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class – Overall rating: 9.2/10
14. 2025 Kia Seltos – Overall rating: 9.1/10
15. 2024 Kia Telluride – Overall rating: 9.4/10
16. 2025 Subaru Outback

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