While some are dreaming of a white Christmas, many people just want to have a safe drive to get to their destinations during this season. With winter, there comes a whole host of not-so-fun driving conditions. Slush, rocks, ice, and snowstorms can all make driving a terrible time for even the most seasoned winter veterans. If you’re looking to buy a car online during these snowy times, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you to find the best 2018 vehicles for winter. While conditions can be unpredictable, you can still ensure you’re getting the best winter driving experience from the cars, trucks, and SUVs in our list below (in no particular order).
1. 2018 Subaru Outback
Credit: Subaru
Subaru has made a name for themselves for offering vehicles able to handle some of the toughest winter conditions, and this year’s Outback is no exception. It particularly stands out with one of the most advanced traction control systems. They have continued to make improvements on the popular and progressive “X-Mode” system on their AWD models for 2018 —including the Outback. X-Mode can not only transfer power as needed to other wheels with traction if it detects slippage, it will also provide more sensitive pedal power as needed until more power is required. If you’re looking for a vehicle to keep you safe on your snowy adventures, the Outback is an excellent choice.
2. 2018 Jeep Wrangler
Credit: Jeep
Of course, if you’re looking for something that can get you literally everywhere, even in heavy snow, the 2018 Wrangler is the obvious choice. This classic 4×4 is well-known for being able to go anywhere (it’s literally in their marketing) and no exceptions are made during the winter season. Fun fact: the Wrangler also accommodates a plow mounted to the front of it, so if that long snowy driveway is giving you trouble, or even if you just want to push snow back onto your annoying neighbour’s driveway, this car is the perfect choice.
3. 2018 Audi A4 Allroad
Credit: Audi
For those who enjoy going on adventures, but experience the off-road conditions less often, the luxurious A4 Allroad offers a stellar all-weather ride. Audi’s Quattro system has become renowned for its ability to make active adjustments to the driving experience without making it frustratingly noticeable. It’s especially good at maintaining traction, even in the worst conditions. The best part? As a driver you barely notice the work the A4 is putting in, making the driving experience that much smoother as you send drifts of snow flying.
4. 2018 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
Credit: Volkswagen
Yes it’s true, Volkswagen surprised many with this excellent compact, off-road-worthy wagon. A notable feature of the Alltrack is its dedicated snow mode. The mode can send up to 50% of the power to the rear wheels when required, but also to the lateral wheels as well to keep traction even during the worst icy sections. The additional inch of ground clearance also helps raise the wagon above heavy slush. Overall, the Alltrack delivers an excellent winter driving experience and keeps you going in the right direction, even during slippery road sections.
5. 2018 Toyota Tacoma
Credit: Toyota
Toyota has an excellent line of 2018 pickups and the Tacoma model is no slouch. If you know you’re going to be dealing with some of the worst weather winter has to offer, the Tacoma can brave the storm with you. The built-in four-wheel drive system can help you get through heavy snow and slush with ease. Plus, the heated seats and steering wheel helps you stay warm, even when it’s freezing outside, or if you’re inevitably having to wait for snowplows to clear the highway. Another plus is the resale value of the 2018 Tacoma, take a look at our previous blog to see how much it can sell for. You’ll be surprised how high it ranks on our list.
6. 2018 Dodge Challenger GT
Credit: Dodge
For those looking for something a little sportier that can still handle the rough highway winter conditions, you can find it in the Challenger GT. Surprisingly, the North American version of the GT can actively switch between RWD and AWD if, while using RWD, the tires lose traction. However, this is only during traction loss, otherwise the Challenger GT maintains its fun RWD control to play around with. Just ensure you’re not one of those sports car owners that end up in a snowy ditch—drive safely.
Of course, any winter vehicle can be adequate in most environments provided it’s equipped with the right tires for the weather, and the person in control is driving appropriately to the conditions. However, if you’re looking for one of the best vehicles dedicated to winter weather, any of the cars, trucks, or SUVs above are a good place to start.