Some winters, every state in the country — including Florida and Hawaii — may have some accumulation of snow. Depending on where you live, the snow may last for a day or for weeks. But whether you're dealing with an inch or a foot, snow can be problematic without the right vehicle to endure the elements. When you're going to work or to stock up on groceries, you want dependability no matter the scenario. Although a pickup truck is great for extreme snow conditions, the price and size are a deterrent for many. To make drivers aware of other choices, Forbes has published a list of the 15 best cars and crossovers for snow. Related: 10 U.S. cities with spookiest and most stressful commutes All of the cars and crossovers on the list either offer or come standard with all-wheel drive (AWD) and feature the highest maximum ground clearance among non-truck models. Having a taller ground clearance enables a vehicle to better plow through deeper snow accumulations without unduly scraping the undercarriage or otherwise becoming stuck. Whether you're looking to prepare for a turbulent winter or just considering your options, look no further and keep reading to see which cars and crossovers are your best bet against the snow in 2017: |
|15. Porsche Cayenne
The 2018 Porsche Cayenne's eight-speed automatic is smooth, and its ride is steady and composed but rather stiff at low speeds, according to Consumer Reports. Related: VW recalls 800,477 Touareg, Porsche Cayenne SUVs to check pedals |
|14. Mazda CX-5
Consumer Reports notes that the 2018 Mazda CX-5's handling is responsive and enjoyable, and the ride is absorbent and steady. Related: Takata recalls 2.7 million more air bags installed by Nissan, Mazda & Ford |
13. Mitsubishi Outlander
With a choice of 4- or 6-cylinder engines, two all-wheel-drive systems and a number of safety and infotainment features, Mitsubishi's Outlander crossover SUV is both competent and affordable, according to Kelly Blue Book. Related: Mitsubishi and LexisNexis partner to develop unique UBI solutions |
12. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers two 4-cylinder engine choices which provide decent power and good fuel economy, according to Kelly Blue Book. Related: Mitsubishi Motors' improper mileage tests date back to 1991 |
11. Land Rover Discovery
The 2018 Land Rover Discovery blends on-road civility with off-road and towing prowess, according to Consumer Reports. Related: SUV craze shows no signs of slowing |
10. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Consumer Reports reports that the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a controlled ride with competent handling. Related: Fatal Jeep crash renews criticism of recall fix to prevent fires |
9. Jeep Renegade Trailhawk
Kelly Blue Book notes that drivers will like this car if they're looking for an affordable compact SUV with loads of optional equipment and the ability to be taken off-road. Related: 10 best all-wheel drive cars and SUVs in the snow |
8. Subaru Outback
Consumer Reports says the 2018 Subaru Outback "rides very comfortably, with secure handling and standard [all-wheel drive] AWD." Related: The best cars for senior drivers in 2017 |
7. Subaru Forester
The 2018 Subaru Forester's fuel economy is excellent at 26 mpg overall, especially given the standard AWD, according to Consumer Reports. Related: Shift to fancy gear knobs in cars draws ire of Consumer Reports |
6. Subaru Crosstrek
The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek has a base MSRP range from $21,795 to $26,295, according to Consumer Reports. Related: Smartphones are killing Americans on the roads, but nobody's counting |
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5. Jeep Cherokee
Kelly Blue Book considers the 2018 Jeep Cherokee a "legitimate off-roader" while comfortable and quiet in everyday commuting. Related: America's 10 most stolen vehicles |
4. Jeep Compass
The 2018 Jeep Compass is small enough to be easy to maneuver, but large enough to make its presence known and deliver a comfortable highway ride, according to Kelly Blue Book. Related: In-vehicle technology increases driver's distractions |
3. Jeep Patriot
Kelly Blue Book notes that drivers seeking basic transportation at a good price with the added bonus of having light off-road credentials can't beat the 2017 Jeep Patriot. Related: Americans evenly divided over future of self-driving vehicles, AIG study reports |
2. Volvo XC60
The new AWD Volvo SUV retains all the previous XC60's strengths, while adding some luxurious features, to elevate it among its competitors, according to Kelly Blue Book. Related: Volvo to pull plug on gasoline engines |
1. Volvo XC90
Base models of the 2018 Volvo XC90 use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, offered with front- or all-wheel drive, according to Consumer Reports. Related: 20 best cars for the money in 2017
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