5 best vehicles for winter driving

Winter can be a magical season with glistening hills of snow and snow sports like skiing and snowboarding. But winter also can bring treacherous road conditions — slippery ice, freezing wind and low visibility. Managing those conditions is easier with the right vehicle.  

Avail car sharing can help you find the best vehicles for snow and ice, with safety features that keep you in control on the road during your winter adventures.

Best vehicles for winter driving

If you live in a colder climate and plan to purchase a new vehicle, or you’re a frequent traveler to chilly destinations, here are five of the best cars for the winter, with enhanced safety features and generous storage space for snow sports enthusiasts. 

1. Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition has seating for up to 8 people and plenty of extra room to stash your snowboard or ski gear. Pre-collision assist with an automatic emergency braking system, two-speed automatic four-wheel-drive and high-beam headlights all contribute to the safety of this mid-size SUV. ‍

2. Subaru Outback

Outdoor enthusiasts have been longtime champions of the sporty Subaru model. All-wheel drive is a standard feature. Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology optimizes cruise control and helps monitor traffic movement and your vehicle’s place on the road. The agile Subaru Outback gets you around those precipitous mountain roads on your way to shredding powder on the slopes.

3. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Known for its rugged, off-roading abilities, the Jeep Grand Cherokee consistently scores high marks in slippery conditions, too. Four-wheel drive comes standard and you can from choose models ranging from 293-707 horsepower. ‍

4. Mazda 3

For those who prefer a more compact vehicle, the Mazda 3 sedan is one of the best cars for snowy weather: It’s sleek and sporty with exceptional road handling and enough trunk space for luggage and gear. The all-wheel-drive option is a good choice if you live in an area with extreme temperatures.‍

5. Dodge Ram 1500

Need to haul that snowmobile to a backcountry trail? A Dodge Ram 1500 will get the job done, thanks to its 12,750-pound towing capacity. Electronic stability control with electronic roll mitigation, automatic braking system and heated mirrors all contribute to the truck’s winter readiness. 

Vehicle safety features 

When selecting a vehicle for winter weather driving, you’ll want to make sure that your car, truck, or van has the right car safety features for winter driving. 

A few of the best winter car features to look for include: 

• Automatic windshield wipers that sense moisture and keep your line of sight clear. 
• Adaptive or LED headlights and tail lights that offer better visibility on snowy roads. 
• Electronic stability control or traction control to reduce slipping and sliding on icy patches, improve handling, and help you maintain control. 
• All-wheel drive or four-wheel-drive to keep you safely moving in snow, sleet, and ice. 

Car sharing companies like Avail take care of winter weather maintenance up front, ensuring the tires, fluids, brakes, and wipers are in peak condition for plummeting temperatures. Avail can’t guarantee specific features for a vehicle, but if you have questions about a rental vehicle’s specifications, you can reach out to customer support.  ‍

Tips for winter driving

Before you make that trip to the slopes, make sure you’re familiar with best winter driving practices.

• Walk around your car and check that your lights and backup cameras are clear and windows are de-iced before leaving. 
• Regularly inspect your tire tread. 
• Drive cautiously, slowly accelerating and decelerating to avoid skids and spins. 
• Maintain extra distance between you and the car in front of you. 
• Avoid using cruise control on wet and icy roads.

Driving safely with Avail 

When you book a winter vehicle through Avail, you get a safe, quality car that’s been cleaned and inspected. Every trip is protected by Allstate insurance coverage and 24/7 roadside assistance. Enjoy your next winter adventure, and learn more about driving safely with Avail.