Regresar al GuidesWhen the winter months are in full swing, safety and security jump to the top of the list of most people’s priorities. This is especially true when it comes to driving on snowy and icy roads. Cold weather can present serious dangers to drivers including obstructions, slippery surfaces, and a lack of visibility. When weather conditions are poor, having a car that you can depend on can give you peace of mind every time you get behind the wheel.
Fortunately, automakers work incredibly hard to make their vehicles as versatile as possible. This means that you can find cars and SUVs that have features specifically designed to keep you safe in snowy and icy conditions. By knowing what the best cars for snow and winter are in 2023, you can find something that will help give you the confidence you need whenever the snow begins to fall.
1. 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee
One of the things that make a vehicle good for winter conditions is a combination of functionality and comfort. The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee checks all of these boxes and mixes both style and capability.
The 2023 Grand Cherokee now comes with a wide range of powertrain options but if you want all-wheel-drive, which is necessary for winter roads, you will have to go with a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 putting out 357 horsepower or a hybridized, turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four putting out 375 horsepower. If you opt for the off-road-oriented Trailhawk trim level, you get extra features like 11.3 inches of ground clearance and adjustable air suspension.
The cabin of the 2023 Grand Cherokee is stylish and comfortable and comes with enough convenience and safety features for almost any application. It features an 8.4- or 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
It also comes with a wide range of safety features for winter driving like automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and active lane-keeping assist for stability on snowy roads.
Browse 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee listings here.
2. 2023 Subaru Forester
For years, Subaru has been making SUVs and crossovers, such as the Outback, that are meant to be as versatile and usable as possible, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The 2023 Forester is no exception and even though there are very few changes for the 2023 model year, it is still a fantastic choice for winter driving.
The Forester features a 2.5-liter flat-four-cylinder powertrain that puts out 182 horsepower. But the real capability comes from the rest of the drivetrain. This engine runs through a continuously variable automatic transmission into an all-wheel-drive configuration that Subaru is known for. This gives you the grip and control you need when the roads are slippery.
The interior of the Forester is straightforward and easy to navigate. It comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen display that can be upgraded to 8.0 inches and runs on Subaru’s Starlink software, which can come with built-in navigation for top-notch security on the road.
It also comes with a large collection of standard safety features. These include things like automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These are all perfect for winter driving and can help you make the snap decisions that are needed when the conditions are poor.
Browse 2023 Subaru Forester listings here.
3. 2023 Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV was one of the first crossovers on the market and it continues to give drivers versatility and excellent capability on snowy roads and other poor conditions.
For the 2023 model year, the RAV4 has gotten a larger display screen with 8 inches of digital real estate running the latest version of the interface software for better visibility and navigation on icy roads.
If you opt for the Adventure trim level, you get a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine putting out 203 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission with an optional all-wheel-drive system. This AWD system gives you the ability to disengage the rear axle if you want some better fuel economy when the conditions are better.
The RAV4’s interior has a wide array of cubby space and storage areas for all your winter gear. It comes standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the lower trims but if you opt for the rugged TRD Off-Road or Limited trims, this is upgraded to 10.5 inches.
It also comes with a range of standard safety features like automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning. If you want, you can also upgrade with additional safety considerations like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert for better control in low-visibility conditions.
Browse 2023 Toyota RAV4 listings here.
4. 2023 Audi A4 Allroad
While station wagons are not nearly as popular as they once were, the Audi A4 Allroad is bringing the category into the modern times. For the 2023 model year, Audi has added LED headlights as standard equipment for exceptional visibility in winter weather and snowy conditions.
The A4 Allroad comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine running with the help of a 12-volt hybrid system. This runs through a seven-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel-drive. It also has the responsive, capable handling that Audi is known for with outstanding grip in the corners.
The A4 Allroad’s cabin is functional and comfortable with all the premium materials and features you would expect from a luxury wagon, including leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and three-zone climate control.
It also comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that runs Audi’s MMI software. This software allows you to view weather information and navigation to help keep you safe and informed on the road. Safety features include automated emergency braking and forward-collision warning, which is essential for road conditions with limited visibility.
Browse 2023 Audi A4 Allroad listings here.
5. 2023 Mazda CX-5
Mazda has a well-earned reputation as an automaker that creates responsive, well-handling vehicles and the CX-5 is a perfect example.
For 2023, the CX-5 has gotten little in the way of updates but this model will still feel up-to-date. Powertrain options include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder putting out 187 horsepower but this can be upgraded to a turbocharged version that puts out 256 horsepower.
All-wheel drive is standard across all models, which, when combined with outstanding handling and electronically-assisted steering, is ideal for winter driving.
The inside of the CX-5 is more comparable to luxury vehicles by Mercedes-Benz or Acura than you might think. It features high-end materials and a quality steering wheel that helps you get the proper feel for the road.
Every version of the 2023 CX-5 comes with a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. It also has a huge suite of safety features like automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control for safety and security on the road.
Browse 2023 Mazda CX-5 listings here.
6. 2023 Honda Pilot
Honda’s three-row SUV, the Pilot, is a fantastic middle-ground between capability and dependability. For the 2023 model year, the Pilot has been completely redesigned for a new generation and now offers updated exterior styling, which is much more rugged and boxy than previous generations, and better suspension tuning for off-road terrain, which is crucial in snowy conditions.
The engine in the all-new Pilot is a 3.5-liter V6, putting out 285 horsepower and paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard, optional all-wheel drive is recommended if you want the best possible handling on icy, slippery roads. If you opt for the Trailsport trim level, you also get winter-friendly features like all-terrain tires for deep snow, a one-inch lift, and steel skid plates.
The Pilot’s cabin is ergonomically designed and meant to be as comfortable as possible for families and individuals. It comes with both a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7.0-inch gauge cluster to help you monitor the performance of the Pilot on snow-covered roads.
It also comes with the comprehensive Honda Sensing safety feature suite. This includes things like automatic high beams, anti-lock brakes, automated emergency braking, and lane-departure warning to help keep you on track when your visibility on the road isn’t ideal.
Browse 2023 Honda Pilot listings here.
7. 2023 BMW 3 Series
It may seem like the last thing you would want for driving in the snow or ice is a sporty luxury car but when that car is the BMW 3 Series, that changes things. The 2023 3 Series received new tech for this model year as well as updated styling for the exterior.
The massive new digital display uses the iDrive 8 software and includes standard navigation, a voice assistant, and a 5G Wi-FI hotspot for ultimate awareness when you are in frozen conditions.
There are three different powertrain options: a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder putting out 255 horsepower, a 382-horsepower hybrid version with a turbo 3.0-liter V6, and a plug-in hybrid with the four-cylinder that puts out 288 horsepower.
All of these come standard with rear-wheel drive but if you want to take full advantage of the 3 Series’s winter capabilities, opting for the all-wheel-drive version is crucial.
The design of the 3 Series’s interior is modern and functional with all the features you would want from a luxury car by BMW. There is a gigantic single-panel display that includes a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment system that includes in-dash navigation for help on snowy roads and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
While the only standard safety tech it comes with is automated emergency braking, for a few extra dollars, the 3 Series can be equipped with lane-departure warning and snow tires for the ultimate in winter driveability.
Browse 2023 BMW 3 Series listings here.
8. 2023 Dodge Charger
Just like with the 3 Series, the Dodge Charger might not be your first choice for icy roads but if it is properly equipped, all that power can go a long way. If you truly want the grip and control of all-wheel drive for winter driving, you will have to opt for the 292-horsepower V6.
The Charger also comes with electrically-assisted steering with excellent grip in the corners, which is ideal for icy and slippery roads.
While most of the comfort in the 2023 Charger is limited to the front seats, there are plenty of features that make it a great car for winter driving. Every version of the Charger comes with a 7.0- or 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system.
This system allows for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It also has a host of available safety features, which will be crucial for driving in winter conditions. These include things like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and forward-collision warning.
Browse 2023 Dodge Charger listings here.
9. 2023 Volvo V90 Cross Country
For as long as it has been in business, Volvo has been known for making safe, comfortable vehicles that are as capable as they are sleek and comfortable. The V90 Cross Country sits right in line with the brand’s image and even though there isn’t much difference between the 2023 V90 Cross Country and the previous model year, it's still excellent
It features a much higher ground clearance than you might expect from a station wagon, plus standard all-wheel drive for complete control in many different situations. It also features a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is combined with a 48-volt hybrid system for 295 horsepower.
The V90 Cross Country’s cabin is generously appointed and comes with high-end trim and a beautiful design. It includes things like a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that is vertically oriented for easy access in low-visibility situations.
Volvo is also known for building some of the safest cars in the world and the huge suite of standard features on the V90 Cross Country is just more evidence of that. Standard equipment includes automated emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and lane-departure warning, all of which are crucial for safe winter driving.
Browse 2023 Volvo V90 Cross Country listings here.
10. 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe
When the snow starts to fall and ice is coating the roads, you want to be sure that your vehicle is steady and stable. The Hyundai Santa Fe, which is the brand’s midsize SUV, is a fantastic choice.
For 2023, not much has been changed aside from switching out some features in various trim levels but the addition of navigation-based adaptive cruise control on hybrid models could be ideal for winter drivers.
The hybrid version of the Santa Fe comes with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor that puts out 226 horsepower. This version comes with a six-speed automatic and comes standard with all-wheel-drive for a vivid, responsive driving experience no matter what the weather is like.
The 2023 Santa Fe’s cabin is attractive and well-designed and features excellent visibility with a high driving position and large side mirrors. It also comes with generous space for passengers and cargo, which is crucial for the winter months.
It is available with an 8.0- or 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It also includes excellent standard safety features like forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning for assistance when driving in low-visibility conditions.
Browse 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe listings here.
Final Thoughts
When searching for a new car, it is important that you make considerations for every season. Finding the right car for winter driving can be difficult, especially if you want something that will be functional as well as stylish.
Knowing what the best cars are for snow and winter in 2023 can help you narrow down your choices and find something that will not only be safe but will also bring you a lot of joy all year long.
