Imagine cruising through a winter wonderland, snow gently falling around you, while you sit comfortably in your car, confident in its ability to handle the icy roads. This scenario isn’t just for luxury car owners.
Did you know that over 70% of U.S. roads are located in snowy regions, with nearly the same percentage of drivers living in these areas?
This makes choosing a winter-ready car essential for safety and convenience, regardless of your budget.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best cheap cars for the snow, focusing on affordability, performance, and safety features.
From compact SUVs to sedans, we’ve got you covered with options that deliver value and reliability without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways:
- Affordable cars with features like all-wheel drive (AWD), high ground clearance, and winter-ready safety systems are ideal for snowy conditions.
- Popular models like the Subaru Forester, Chevrolet Equinox, and Honda CR-V offer excellent performance at budget-friendly prices.
- Investing in winter tires can significantly enhance your car’s ability to handle icy roads, regardless of the model.
Why Choose a Snow-Ready Car?
Driving in winter conditions requires more than just skill—it demands a vehicle designed to handle snow and ice effectively. Here’s why choosing a snow-ready car matters:
- Safety First: Features like AWD or 4WD, stability control, and advanced braking systems ensure better traction and control on slippery surfaces.
- Comfort: Heated seats, defrosters, and efficient climate control systems make winter drives more bearable and enjoyable.
- Cost Efficiency: Many affordable options exist that don’t compromise on performance or safety, saving you money in the long run.
Must-Have Features for Winter Cars:
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): Essential for maintaining traction on slippery roads and getting out of snow banks.
- High Ground Clearance: Prevents the undercarriage from getting stuck in deep snow and allows for easier navigation through snow-covered streets.
- Winter Tires: Provide better grip compared to all-season tires, significantly improving stopping distance and handling on ice and snow.
- Heated Features: Heated mirrors, seats, and steering wheels improve visibility, comfort, and safety during cold winter months.
Top Picks: Best Cheap Cars for Snow
1. Subaru Forester
- Known For: Exceptional all-weather capability and spacious interior
- Key Features:
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance
- X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control
- EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology
- Why It’s Great: The Subaru Forester is renowned for its ability to handle diverse terrains and weather conditions. Its standard AWD system and high ground clearance make it a top choice for snow driving, while its spacious interior provides comfort for both daily commutes and winter adventures.
2. Chevrolet Equinox
- Known For: Versatility, fuel efficiency, and capable winter performance
- Key Features:
- Available All-Wheel Drive with switchable AWD
- Selectable Drive Modes including Snow mode
- 7.6 inches of ground clearance
- Chevy Safety Assist with advanced driver assistance features
- Why It’s Great: The Chevrolet Equinox offers a practical solution for winter driving with its available all-wheel drive system that provides on-demand traction in snowy conditions. Its Snow mode optimizes vehicle performance for slippery roads by adjusting throttle response and traction control.
3. Honda CR-V
- Known For: Fuel efficiency, versatile cargo space, and smooth ride
- Key Features:
- Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™
- Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control
- Honda Sensing® suite of safety technologies
- Heated front seats available
- Why It’s Great: The Honda CR-V strikes a balance between practicality and winter performance. Its optional AWD system enhances traction in snow, while the vehicle’s overall design prioritizes fuel efficiency and comfort. The ample cargo space is perfect for storing winter gear or luggage for ski trips.
4. Mazda CX-5
- Known For: Sporty handling, upscale interior, and stylish design
- Key Features:
- i-ACTIV AWD® with Off-road Traction Assist
- G-Vectoring Control Plus
- 7.5 inches of ground clearance
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Why It’s Great: The Mazda CX-5 brings a touch of luxury to the affordable SUV segment. Its i-ACTIV AWD® system uses 27 sensors to monitor road conditions and adjust power distribution accordingly, making it highly capable in snow. The vehicle’s responsive handling and premium feel set it apart from competitors.
Comparison Table: Best Cheap Cars for Snow
| Model | AWD System | Ground Clearance | Standout Winter Feature | Known For |
| Subaru Forester | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | 8.7 inches | X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control | Exceptional all-weather capability and spacious interior |
| Chevrolet Equinox | Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD | 8.6 inches | Multi-Terrain Select with Snow Mode | Reliability and spaciousness |
| Honda CR-V | Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control | ~8 inches | Vehicle Stability Assist™ | Fuel efficiency and versatility |
| Mazda CX-5 | i-ACTIV AWD® | ~7.5 inches | Off-road Traction Assist | Sporty handling and upscale feel |
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
If you’re looking for even more affordable options that still perform well in snowy conditions:
Hyundai Tucson
- Known For: Value for money and comprehensive warranty
- Key Features:
- HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system
- Drive Mode Select with Snow mode
- Hyundai SmartSense safety features
Ford Escape
- Known For: Agile handling and fuel-efficient engine options
- Key Features:
- Intelligent 4WD System
- Selectable Drive Modes including Snow/Sand
- Ford Co-Pilot360™ Technology
Conclusion
When it comes to driving in snowy conditions without overspending, there are plenty of great options available. Models like the Subaru Forester and Chevrolet Equinox stand out due to their robust winter capabilities and overall value.
Whether you’re tackling icy commutes or weekend ski trips, these vehicles offer safety, comfort, and reliability at a reasonable price point.
Remember, the best car for snow is one that combines AWD or 4WD, good ground clearance, and winter-specific features to keep you safe and comfortable on the road.
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FAQs
What is the cheapest car good for snow?
The Subaru Forester is often considered one of the most affordable vehicles with standard AWD and excellent winter-driving features, making it a top choice for budget-conscious snow drivers.
Do I need winter tires if I have AWD?
Yes! While AWD improves traction on slippery surfaces, winter tires provide better grip on icy roads. The combination of AWD and winter tires offers the best performance and safety in snowy conditions.
Are sedans good for snow driving?
Some sedans with AWD, like the Subaru Legacy or Toyota Camry AWD, can handle light snow well. However, they may struggle in deeper conditions compared to SUVs due to lower ground clearance.
Source Links:
https://www.kbb.com/best-cars/10-best-all-wheel-drive-vehicles-under-30000
https://www.edmunds.com/car-buying/best-cars-for-snow.html
https://www.iseecars.com/articles/best-cars-for-snow
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/advice/best-cars-for-winter-driving
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/articles/best-cheap-cars-for-snow