Best Vehicles for Winter Driving in Canada
Best Vehicles for Winter Driving in Canada
Posted on December 8, 2021
Many drivers are intimidated by winter driving, unsure of what they will encounter once snow begins to fall and the roads begin to freeze. However, any vehicle can work in winter driving conditions as long as drivers follow specific rules, such as slowing down, anticipating longer-than-usual braking distance, and more. That said, there are some vehicles that are better at handling snow than others.
Drivetrains
There are pros and cons to two-wheel drivetrains, such as front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD), in snowy and icy conditions. While these may work well for drivers experienced with winter weather driving, inexperienced drivers are likely to get into trouble with a two-wheel drive system.
Many people use the terms all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) interchangeably, but they are not actually the same system. The most common type of AWD system is a part-time system that works in two-wheel drive most of the time to increase fuel efficiency and switches to AWD, sending power to all four wheels, when it senses one or both primary drive wheels slipping.
4WD is also usually a part-time system, especially on pickup trucks, which operate in RWD until switched over to 4WD. 4WD is different from AWD in that it sends power to all four wheels but creates a lock between the front and rear axles to keep them the same speed.
Choosing between AWD and 4WD depends on your needs both in winter driving and in the type of vehicle you need. For most people, AWD is likely the best answer. Here are a few of the best vehicles for winter driving.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
With a strong engine, a lifetime of dedication to capability, and AWD, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is well proportioned to take on winter driving. With precise steering and ultimate performance, drivers in Ottawa will never have to fear going out in the snow.
Hyundai Kona
This subcompact SUV offers a crisp driving experience, and AWD models offer agile handling and a surprising amount of fun. In addition, the Kona maneuvers through city streets covered in snow with ease.
Nissan Altima
SUVs are not the only vehicles capable of winter driving, there are also AWD sedans that can tackle tough conditions. While it does not provide as much ground clearance as an SUV, the Nissan Altima keeps drivers rooted to the ground in snowy and icy conditions.